Plumbing Myths That Are Costing You Money

There’s no shortage of plumbing advice out there, but not all of it will save you money—some myths can cost you in the long run. From so-called quick fixes to outdated beliefs about maintenance, following bad advice can lead to wasted water, higher bills, and even serious damage. As a trusted plumber in Madison, MS, Skeen Plumbing & Gas is here to set the record straight and help you avoid costly mistakes.

Myth 1: Lemons Clean Your Garbage Disposal

It sounds harmless—drop a lemon down the disposal, and it’ll magically clean the blades while making your kitchen smell fresh. While citrus can temporarily mask odors, it can’t effectively clean anything.

Citric acid in lemons can help break down minor grease buildup, but it’s not strong enough to remove grime, food particles, or bacteria. Plus, lemon pulp can contribute to clogs, and the acidity may wear down certain components over time.

A better solution? Get in touch with a trusted plumbing company for any concerns regarding your garbage disposal.

Myth 2: A Dripping Faucet Is No Big Deal

A single leaky faucet can waste hundreds of gallons of water a year, driving up your water bill. Even worse, ignoring a leak for too long can lead to bigger problems, such as worn washers, corroded valves, or structural pipe damage—each of which can require extensive plumbing repairs.

Myth 3: Flushable Wipes Are Safe for Pipes

Despite the label, “flushable” wipes are not plumbing-friendly. Wipes stay intact and can easily clog pipes, leading to emergency plumbing situations such as blockages. If they don’t get stuck in your home’s plumbing, they often create massive sewer clogs known as “fatbergs” in municipal systems.

Myth 4: Water Heaters Don’t Need Maintenance

Many people assume that as long as hot water flows from the tap, their water heater is fine. However, sediment buildup inside the tank can reduce efficiency, forcing the heater to work harder and use more energy. Routine plumbing services such as draining and flushing the tank once a year can extend its lifespan, improve performance, and help you avoid an untimely replacement.

Myth 5: Chemical Drain Cleaners Are the Best Fix for Clogs

That bottle of drain cleaner might seem like a quick fix, but harsh chemicals eat away at pipes over time, leading to leaks and corrosion. If the clog persists, a professional plumber can clear it without damaging your pipes.

Save Your Pipes—and Your Wallet

Don’t risk costly damage with unreliable hacks—trust the experts at Skeen Plumbing & Gas for reliable solutions. Contact us today!