At Birmingham Plumbing Company, we’ve heard all the tales and myths about plumbing – some more believable than others. Today, we will have fun debunking these myths tailored to our Grand Rapids community. So, let’s dive into the world of pipes and faucets and separate fact from fiction!
Myth 1: Running Water Helps with Garbage Disposal
Many might think running water while using your garbage disposal helps everything go smoothly. While water does assist, it’s not a cure-all. Be careful in Grand Rapids, where we have a variety of foods from our rich culinary scene! Hard items like bones or fibrous materials like corn husks can still jam your disposal, water or not.
Truth: While running water does help, the key to a healthy disposal is to avoid putting problematic items down. Stick to soft, organic materials and always run cold water before, during, and after disposal to prevent clogs and maintain your unit.
Myth 2: A Leaky Faucet is No Big Deal
We’ve all been there – a dripping faucet that we ignore. However, those old pipes and faucets might tell you something in a city with as much history as Grand Rapids. A small drip can lead to a more significant issue, and with our unique water composition, those drips can cause more damage and waste more water than you might think!
Truth: Every drop counts! Fixing leaky faucets promptly can save prevent more significant plumbing issues while saving you money. Regular maintenance is essential in Grand Rapids due to the age of many plumbing systems.
Myth 3: Flushable Wipes are Safe for Plumbing
This is a big one! Despite what the label says, ‘flushable’ wipes are a plumber’s nightmare – especially in our city with its older sewage systems. These wipes don’t break down like toilet paper and can create drain clogs, leading to unpleasant and costly visits from us.
Truth: Stick to toilet paper. Even wipes labeled as ‘flushable’ can cause blockages and sewer line backups. This is particularly crucial in Grand Rapids, where older sewer systems can be more sensitive to such blockages.
Myth 4: All Plumbers Are the Same
At Birmingham Plumbing Company, we know that local knowledge counts. Every city has its quirks, and our plumbing systems are no different. What works in one place might not work in another, so having a local expert matters.
Truth: Choosing a local plumber with specific knowledge of Grand Rapids plumbing systems and challenges, like Birmingham Plumbing Company, can ensure more accurate and efficient service tailored to your home’s needs.
Myth 5: In-tank Cleaners Keep the Toilet Clean and Safe
While those blue in-tank cleaners might make your toilet water look fresh, they often do more harm than good, especially in our area with hard water. They can corrode the internal parts of your toilet, leading to leaks and failures. Trust us; a good old-fashioned scrub is better.
Truth: Regular manual cleaning of your toilet is the safest method. Using mild cleaners and a toilet brush can keep your toilet clean without risking damage to its internal components, a vital consideration in areas with hard water.
Myth 6: Plumbing is a DIY-Friendly Job
We love the DIY spirit in Grand Rapids, but plumbing is often best left to professionals. Missteps can lead to bigger problems – water damage and even legal issues with city codes. When in doubt, give us a shout!
Truth: While minor tasks can be done by DIY, professional plumbers have the tools and expertise for more complex jobs. This is especially important in Grand Rapids, where unique plumbing layouts and older homes can present unexpected challenges.
Myth 7: All You Need to Clear a Clog is a Plunger.
While a plunger is a great tool, not all clogs are created equal. Sometimes, clogs in our Grand Rapids homes, especially in the historical districts, need a professional touch. Older pipes can be delicate, and a plunger might not be enough or could even cause damage.
Truth: Professional tools and techniques like sewer jetting are often required for deeper or stubborn clogs. This is particularly true in Grand Rapids, where older plumbing systems can be more prone to complex clogs beyond a standard plunger’s reach.
Remember, knowledge is power, especially when it comes to plumbing in Grand Rapids.
Birmingham Plumbing Company is a Call Away
So, there you have it, folks! We hope you’ve had as much fun reading this as we had writing it. Remember, when it comes to plumbing in Grand Rapids, what you don’t know can hurt you (and your pipes). Birmingham Plumbing Company is just a call away for all your plumbing needs, myths, and truths. Stay savvy, and keep those pipes happy!
