Plumbing Myths Debunked

Plumbing Myths Debunked: What Really Works and What Doesn’t?

When it comes to Marietta plumbing, there’s no shortage of advice—but not all of it is good. From viral DIY hacks to long-standing myths, homeowners are often misled into doing things that can damage their plumbing systems.

At Absolute Plumbing, we believe in helping Marietta homeowners make smart, informed choices. That’s why we’re breaking down the most common plumbing myths—and showing you what actually works.

Call (678) 499-2124

Myth #1: “Flushable” Wipes Are Safe to Flush

Even though the label says “flushable,” these wipes don’t break down like toilet paper. They often cause clogs in your home’s pipes and in the city sewer system.

Do this instead: Only flush toilet paper and human waste. Toss wipes, paper towels, and hygiene products in the trash.

Myth #2: A Brick in the Toilet Tank Saves Water

This old trick can cause more harm than good. Bricks can break down and damage the toilet’s parts or reduce water flow, leading to poor flushes.

Better solution: Install a low-flow toilet designed to save water. Absolute Plumbing can help you upgrade to a water-efficient model that works properly.

Myth #3: Drop-In Toilet Cleaners Are Safe

The blue tablets may keep the toilet bowl looking clean, but they contain harsh chemicals that can wear down rubber parts inside your tank.

Try this instead: Use a toilet brush and safe cleaning products. Avoid long-term exposure to chemicals inside the tank.

Myth #4: Baking Soda and Vinegar Will Unclog a Drain

Although it looks cool, the fizzy reaction between baking soda and vinegar doesn’t do much to clear real clogs.

What works: Use a plunger or a drain snake. For tough or recurring clogs, call the Marietta plumbing pros at Absolute Plumbing.

Myth #5: Boiling Water Clears Drains

Boiling water can soften grease—but it can also damage PVC pipes or melt seals in your plumbing.

Smarter approach: Use warm water and safe drain cleaning tools. If you’re not sure, give us a call at Absolute Plumbing.

Myth #6: Running Water Makes It Safe to Put Anything in the Garbage Disposal

Even with water running, fibrous foods, grease, coffee grounds, and peels can clog your disposal and your pipes.

What to do: Use cold water, feed waste in small amounts, and avoid putting problematic items down the drain.

Myth #7: Lemons Clean Your Disposal

Lemon peels smell nice but don’t clean the disposal—and the acid can damage parts over time.

Better choice: Use ice cubes and baking soda to clean your disposal safely. It’ll freshen it up without causing damage.

Myth #8: Ice Cubes Sharpen Disposal Blades

Garbage disposals don’t have sharp blades—they use blunt impellers to grind food. Ice can clean, but it doesn’t “sharpen” anything.

Use ice to knock loose debris, but don’t expect a sharper disposal.

Myth #9: Pouring Grease Down the Drain Is Fine With Hot Water

Hot water may melt grease temporarily, but once it cools, it hardens and sticks to the pipes, eventually causing blockages.

The right move: Let grease cool and throw it in the trash. Wipe pans before washing to avoid buildup.

Myth #10: Chemical Drain Cleaners Are Safe

These cleaners may clear a clog, but they can also corrode your pipes and create dangerous fumes.

Safer fix: Try plunging or snaking the drain. If that doesn’t work, call the Marietta plumbing experts at Absolute Plumbing.

Myth #11: A Leaky Faucet Isn’t Worth Fixing

A slow drip may seem small, but it can waste over 3,000 gallons of water per year—and raise your utility bill.

Fix it fast: Often, it’s just a worn washer or O-ring. We can fix it quickly and help you save money.

Myth #12: Water Heater Noises Mean It’s Going to Explode

Popping or banging sounds usually mean sediment buildup—not a dangerous situation. But it does mean it’s time for maintenance.

Pro tip: Flush your water heater once or twice a year, or call Absolute Plumbing for a professional tune-up.

Call the Top Marietta Plumbing Team: Absolute Plumbing

Don’t let bad advice damage your plumbing or your wallet. When you need real answers—not plumbing myths—Absolute Plumbing is your go-to team in Marietta, GA.

From clogged drains and leaky faucets to water heater maintenance and toilet repairs, we’re here to help.

📞 Need plumbing help? Contact Absolute Plumbing today—Marietta’s trusted plumbing experts.

Call (678) 499-2124