5 Common Plumbers Myths Every Chislehurst Homeowner Should Know

Plumbing problems are something no homeowner in Chislehurst can ignore for long. From leaky taps to blocked drains, these issues often lead to stress, damage, and unnecessary costs. Yet, many people still believe old plumbing myths that often make problems worse. Understanding the facts can save time, money, and headaches. If you want reliable guidance, always know plumbing tips from trusted professionals instead of relying on outdated advice.

At Sasta Gas, we provide expert plumbing, heating, and boiler services across South East London and Kent. Call us today on 01689 839172 or email info@sastagas.co.uk for fast and dependable solutions.

Why Homeowners Believe Plumbing Myths

Plumbing myths often come from passed-down advice or quick-fix suggestions that may have worked decades ago but are no longer reliable. Many homeowners trust these ideas because they seem simple and cost-saving. However, with modern systems, wrong practices can cause serious damage. Knowing the truth behind common myths helps homeowners maintain their property safely and avoid expensive repair bills.

• Old Practices Passed Down: Advice that worked with older plumbing systems is often outdated for modern homes.
• Word-Of-Mouth Advice: Friends, neighbours, or family members often repeat tips without knowing if they are correct.
• Misinformation Online: DIY videos and blogs may suggest unsafe shortcuts that cause long-term damage.
• Cost-Saving Mindset: Homeowners want quick, cheap solutions, so myths sound appealing.
• Lack Of Professional Guidance: Without expert inspections, myths can go unchallenged until a serious issue arises.

The 5 Most Common Plumbers Myths Every Chislehurst Homeowner Should Know

1. Lemon Peels Clean And Freshen Your Garbage Disposal

• Many people believe lemon peels keep disposals clean and odour-free. While they may mask bad smells, lemon peels can damage blades and cause clogs.
• The acid in citrus can corrode metal parts over time.
• A safer method is flushing the disposal with baking soda and vinegar, followed by hot water.

2. Flushable Wipes Are Safe To Use

• Packaging often claims wipes are flushable, but they don’t break down like toilet paper.
• These wipes create stubborn blockages in household pipes and the wider sewer system.
• Stick to toilet paper only to avoid costly drainage repairs.

3. A Slow Drip Is Nothing To Worry About

• A dripping tap may seem minor, but it wastes water and increases utility bills.
• Small leaks can worsen over time, leading to pipe damage or water staining.
• Fixing drips promptly keeps your plumbing system efficient and prevents future repairs.

4. Hot Water Can Dissolve Grease In Drains

• Many homeowners believe pouring hot water down drains clears grease.
• In reality, grease hardens further down the pipes and causes severe clogs.
• The correct way is to collect grease separately and dispose of it in the bin.

5. Plumbing Repairs Are Easy DIY Jobs

• Online tutorials may make plumbing look simple, but without experience, you risk bigger damage.
• Incorrect repairs can lead to leaks, flooding, or even boiler issues.
• Hiring a professional plumber ensures safe, lasting results that meet regulations.

Additional Tips For Avoiding Plumbing Mistakes

1. Check Water Pressure Regularly

• High water pressure can strain pipes and appliances.
• Low pressure may signal leaks or blockages.
• Have your system checked if pressure fluctuates often.

2. Know The Location Of Your Stopcock

• In emergencies like burst pipes, shutting off water quickly prevents major damage.
• Ensure all family members know where it is and how to operate it.

3. Schedule Regular Professional Inspections

• Annual checks help detect hidden leaks, corrosion, or worn-out parts.
• Professional inspections keep boilers, radiators, and plumbing in safe condition.

4. Use Drain Strainers

• Strainers prevent hair, food particles, and debris from causing clogs.
• They are an affordable way to keep drains running smoothly.

5. Avoid Overusing Chemical Drain Cleaners

• Harsh chemicals can damage pipes and harm the environment.
• Mechanical tools or professional cleaning provide safer solutions.

6. Maintain Your Boiler And Heating System

• Proper boiler maintenance prevents leaks and ensures efficient heating.
• Professional servicing helps avoid costly breakdowns in winter.

Set Up Reliable Plumbing With Sasta Gas

Avoiding common myths is the first step to keeping your home plumbing reliable. At Sasta Gas, we provide professional plumbing, boiler, and heating services tailored to Chislehurst homeowners. From fixing small leaks to handling complex installations, our team ensures safe, cost-effective solutions. We also offer expert advice so you never fall for outdated plumbing myths again.

Are you ready to protect your home plumbing system the right way? Contact Sasta Gas today on 01689 839172 or email info@sastagas.co.uk. Our experts are here to deliver trusted service whenever you need it.

FAQs

1. What are the dangers of believing plumbing myths?

Believing myths often leads to costly repairs, water damage, and inefficient systems. Myths may cause people to ignore issues until they become emergencies.

2. Can DIY plumbing be safe for small issues?

Simple tasks like tightening a tap may be manageable, but more complex jobs should be left to professionals. Incorrect DIY repairs can void warranties and insurance cover.

3. How often should I get my plumbing inspected?

A professional inspection once a year is recommended. This helps detect hidden leaks, blockages, or early signs of wear.

4. What should I do if I notice a small leak?

Never ignore even a minor leak. Shut off your stopcock if necessary and call a plumber to prevent water damage.

5. Are chemical drain cleaners safe to use?

While they may work temporarily, frequent use can erode pipes and damage your system. Professional drain cleaning is a safer option.