We hate to burst your bubble, but here are some plumbing myths you need to stop believing now! Let’s get right into them!

Myth 1: Flushable wipes are safe

While flushable wipes will technically flush down the drain, it doesn’t mean you should use them. They aren’t biodegradable like toilet paper, so flushing a ton of them may lead to clogs and even affect your entire drainage system. A good rule of thumb–only pee, poo, and toilet paper should go down your toilet.

Myth 2: A rumbling water heater means it’s about to explode

We understand those terrifying rumbling and banging sounds may want you ducking for cover, but no it’s not about to explode. This most likely means there is sediment in your water heater tank that has just collected over the years and as your water heater works to heat through these layers of sediment, air bubbles come out with a bang.

Myth 3: Hot water can help grease go down the sink

Dumping that pan of taco meat grease down your sink seems like a quick and easy solution, but it’s a big no-no. Grease, fats, and oils do the same to your pipes as they do to your arteries, they build up along the walls, eventually causing blockages and problems. So no, hot water, not even boiling water will do zilch when it comes to breaking down grease. Let it solidify and dump it in the trash.

Myth 4: Water flushes in the opposite direction in The Southern Hemisphere

As much as you may have learned about the Coriolis Effect, toilets do not flush in the opposite direction in The Southern Hemisphere. While the Coriolis Effect is a real phenomenon having to do with cyclones and their directions, it only pertains to large bodies of water. The direction of your toilet flush is determined by the water jets. Nice try though.

Myth 5: Putting a brick in your toilet saves water

Now, this is a fun one. Some people believe putting a brick in their toilet tank will cause the toilet to use less water when it flushes. Not only will a brick disintegrate and affect your toilet valve and flapper, but if anything it will cause water flow to get interrupted, leading to more flushes.

Myth 6: Bleach tablets are safe for the toilet

Bleach is okay to use in your toilet as long as you’re going to wash it out after 10 minutes, but adding bleach-containing tablets in the tank is just going to spell disaster after about 6 months when the bleach has degraded the internal parts of your toilet. If you’re looking for a cop-out to deep cleaning your toilets, look elsewhere.

Urban legends, myths–they’re all in good fun, but not when it comes to your plumbing. We hope this guide has helped debunk some common misconceptions and if you’re ever in need of a reliable plumber, consider D&F Plumbing, Heating and Cooling. We’re fast, affordable, and we always leave the seat down 😉