Plumbing can look simple from the outside. You turn a handle, water comes out. But behind your walls is a connected system of pipes, valves, and drains that most homeowners never see and often misunderstand. Over the years, I’ve seen a lot of bad plumbing advice passed around by friends, family, and social media DIY plumbing videos. Unfortunately, following the wrong tips often creates bigger plumbing problems instead of fixing them.

Why Plumbing Myths Cost Homeowners Time and Money

Plumbing myths may sound harmless, but believing them can turn small, manageable issues into costly repairs. One common example is pouring grease down the sink and flushing it with hot water. While it may seem like the grease disappears, it eventually cools, hardens, and sticks to pipe walls. Over time, this leads to stubborn clogs and sewer backups.

These misunderstandings cause blocked drains, hidden leaks, water damage, higher utility bills, and avoidable plumbing repairs. Reliable plumbing care comes from proven facts and experience, not quick online shortcuts.

Below are some of the most common plumbing myths homeowners still believe, along with the truth behind each one.

10 Common Plumbing Myths (and the Truth Behind Them)

Myth 1: “A Leaky Faucet Isn’t a Big Deal”

Truth:
A faucet that drips steadily can waste more than 3,000 gallons of water in a year. Beyond higher water bills, that drip often points to worn seals, pressure issues, or internal damage that can worsen over time if ignored. What seems minor today can lead to larger fixture or pipe repairs later.

Myth 2: “Hot water dissolves grease and prevents clogs.”

Truth: Hot water may melt grease temporarily, but it cools inside your pipes and hardens again, creating thick blockages. Always collect grease in a container and dispose of it in the trash instead.

Myth 3: “Flushable wipes are safe for toilets.”

Truth: Despite the label, most “flushable” wipes don’t break down like toilet paper. They clump together and clog sewer lines. Municipalities worldwide report these wipes as a top cause of plumbing blockages.

Myth 4: “My water heater will last forever if it’s still heating properly.”

Truth: Water heaters typically last 8–12 years. Sediment build-up and corrosion can make them work harder while quietly increasing energy consumption and risk of leaks or bursts. Regular maintenance is key, read our plumbing maintenance tips blog to learn simple steps that help extend the life of your water heater.

Myth 5: “Using lemon peels cleans and freshens the garbage disposal.”

Truth: Lemon peels smell nice, but they don’t actually clean your disposal and can blunt the blades or jam the motor. Use a mixture of baking soda, vinegar, and ice cubes instead for safe cleaning.

Myth 6: “If water drains, there’s no clog.”

Truth: A drain can still be partially blocked even if water appears to flow normally. Slow draining, gurgling sounds, or recurring odors are signs that buildup is forming deeper inside the pipe. Catching these warning signs early helps prevent full blockages and more serious plumbing problems later.

Myth 7: “All plumbers charge the same rate, so it doesn’t matter who I hire.”

Truth: Plumbing rates vary based on experience, training, tools, and how thoroughly the work is done. Some plumbers may offer lower prices but only fix the visible issue, which can lead to repeated problems. A skilled plumber takes time to diagnose the root cause, explains the repair clearly, and focuses on long-term results.

That approach is how we work at Alexander Plumbing LLC, a locally based plumber in O’Fallon, IL – focused on clear pricing, proper diagnosis, and repairs done right the first time.

Myth 8: “I can fix any plumbing issue using a YouTube tutorial.”

Truth: DIY repairs often cause more damage when tools or materials are misused. Plumbing systems are more complex than they appear. A wrong twist can break a pipe or void warranties. Always call a professional plumber for bigger tasks.

Myth 9: “Low water pressure is just an annoyance.”

Truth: Constant low pressure might mean leaks, corrosion, or failing valves. Ignoring it can increase water damage hidden behind walls or under floors.

Myth 10: “If it’s not leaking, it’s fine.”

Truth: Not all leaks are visible. Many start slowly inside walls, under floors, beneath concrete slabs, or behind tile. By the time stains, warping, or mold appear, water may have been leaking for months. Annual plumbing inspections help catch these hidden issues early, before they cause serious damage.

How to Stay Informed and Avoid Common Plumbing Mistakes

Most plumbing problems don’t start with emergencies. They begin with small oversights or well-meaning advice that turns out to be wrong. A few smart habits can go a long way in protecting your home.

• Verify information before trying plumbing “hacks.”
  Many online tips skip important details and can damage pipes, seals, or fixtures.

• Schedule regular plumbing inspections.
  An expert plumber can spot early signs of leaks, corrosion, or drainage problems that aren’t visible during everyday use.

• Use your plumbing system properly.
  Avoid pouring grease or harsh chemicals down drains, and don’t overload toilets or garbage disposals with items they aren’t designed to handle.

• Know the age and materials of your plumbing.
  Older pipes and certain materials require more frequent checks, often every 6–12 months.

• Build a relationship with a trusted local plumber.
  Having someone who knows your system makes routine maintenance and emergency situations much easier to handle.

At Alexander Plumbing & Remodeling LLC, we’ve seen firsthand how bad plumbing advice can lead to unnecessary damage and repairs. Relying on professional guidance helps you avoid those problems and keeps your plumbing system working the way it should.

FAQs

What’s the biggest plumbing myth homeowners still believe?
That “flushable” wipes are safe. They’re a global headache for plumbers and sewage systems alike.

Is DIY plumbing safe if I follow online tutorials?
Basic tasks like tightening a leaky faucet or replacing a showerhead can be safe. But anything involving pipes, sewage, or water heaters should be left to professionals.

Are professional plumbing inspections really necessary every year?
Yes. An annual inspection helps detect leaks, corrosion, or clogs before they grow. It’s much cheaper than major repairs after damage occurs.

Want to keep your plumbing healthy and myth-free? Book your inspection or maintenance service with Alexander Plumbing & Remodeling LLC today.