5 Common Plumbing Myths You Should Stop Believing

At Pescara Plumbing, we’ve seen just about everything. And over the years, we’ve heard our fair share of old wives’ tales and outdated advice about how plumbing works. The truth is, a lot of these so-called “plumbing tips” can actually cause more harm than good.

So let’s set the record straight. Here are five of the most common plumbing myths we hear, and why you should stop believing them:

1. “If it’s going down the drain, everything’s fine.”

Just because water disappears doesn’t mean your pipes are in the clear. Over time, grease, hair, food scraps, and soap buildup can slowly clog your drains. Most clogs don’t happen overnight. They build up little by little. If your sink or tub is draining slower than it used to, that’s your warning sign. Don’t ignore it.

2. “Flushable wipes are safe to flush.”

The packaging might say “flushable,” but your plumbing says otherwise. These wipes don’t break down like toilet paper does. They tend to clump together in pipes and sewer lines, and that can lead to major blockages, backups, and costly repairs. If it’s not toilet paper, don’t flush it.

3. “A leaky faucet isn’t a big deal.”

It may seem like a small drip, but a leaky faucet can waste hundreds of gallons of water per year. It can also drive up your water bill over time. Even worse, leaks are sometimes a sign of a bigger issue with your water pressure or internal parts. It’s not just about the annoyance. It’s worth getting it checked out.

4. “You can fix most clogs with a plunger or drain cleaner.”

Plungers are helpful in a pinch, but they don’t always get to the root of the problem. And chemical drain cleaners? We don’t recommend them. They can damage your pipes, especially if you use them often. If you’re dealing with repeat clogs, your best move is to call in a pro. We can clear the blockage the right way, without doing damage.

5. “All plumbers are basically the same.”

Not true. Just like in any line of work, there’s a wide range of skill, service, and reliability. At Pescara Plumbing, we’re licensed, local, and proud to serve Greater Cleveland with honest work and straightforward communication. We don’t cut corners. And we treat people like neighbors, not numbers.

The Bottom Line:

Bad advice leads to bad plumbing. If something doesn’t feel right or you have a question, just give us a call. We’ll help you sort out what’s fact and what’s fiction—and make sure everything’s working like it should.

Need help with a clog, leak, or inspection?
📞 Call Pescara Plumbing (440) 373-7811