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All of us, at one time or another, have had our bubbles burst when cherished beliefs turned out to be myths. Since the advent of the Information Age, truisms from “lightning never strikes twice” to “you can’t teach an old dog new tricks,” are being dispelled by instant searches on the Internet.

Unfortunately, not all myths are harmless. Some, like these plumbing myths, can damage your fixtures and cost you money.

  • The gurgling in your water heater means it’s going to explode: No, it doesn’t, but that doesn’t mean you don’t need to pay attention to it. The gurgling is caused by sediment in the water, collecting at the bottom of your water heater. Once the water is heated, the sediment keeps the hot water from rising, causing the expansion of air bubbles, as well as the resulting sound. Make sure you have the water heater drained now and then.
  • A brick in the tank saves water: Not really — in fact, it can absorb so much water that it might necessitate flushing twice. Furthermore, the brick will break down in the water, resulting in sediment, which might cause other problems.
  • Flushable wipes are flushable: Well, they can be flushed, but they can also clog your pipes further down the line. Throw them away!
  • Toilet bowl tablets with bleach can help keep the toilet clean: Leaving one of these tablets in the tank can destroy working parts within six months. You shouldn’t leave bleach in a tank for longer than 10 minutes.
  • Don’t be concerned about a leaky faucet: A leaky faucet is a cause for concern for several reasons. First, it’s a waste of precious resources, and it will cost you more money over time. Second, it can damage your faucet and pipes if the leak continues. Third, leaking water can stain your sink.
  • Ice cubes can sharpen garbage disposal blades: Not true — but ice cubes can clean the blades.
    If you’d like to discuss other plumbing myths, call us at Pipe Works Services. We proudly serve Madison, Chatham, Summit, Florham Park, Basking Ridge, Short Hills, Millburn, New Providence, Millington, Berkeley Heights, and more!
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