Hi, I’m Doug. I’ve spent more years than I care to admit under kitchen sinks and in crawlspaces as a Master Plumber. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that most plumbing emergencies don’t start with a burst pipe—they start with a misconception.
There is a lot of “common sense” advice out there that sounds good but actually keeps guys like me very busy (and keeps your repair bills high). Today, I’m setting the record straight on three of the biggest myths I see in the field.
I see these packages in almost every bathroom I visit. The label says “flushable,” so you’d think it’s safe, right? Wrong.
As a Master Plumber, I’ve pulled thousands of these out of backed-up sewer lines. Unlike toilet paper, which is designed to dissolve almost instantly, these wipes are made of sturdy fibers that stay intact for days. They act like a net, catching hair and grease until your main line is completely choked off.
Everyone loves the smell of fresh citrus, and the internet will tell you to toss your old lemon rinds down the garbage disposal to “clean the blades.”
Here’s the problem: Those rinds are incredibly tough. Instead of cleaning the disposal, they often get stuck or create a pulpy mess that clogs the trap. Even worse, the high acidity in lemons can actually corrode the metal parts inside your disposal over time.
I often hear homeowners say, “It’s been draining a little slow for a month, but I didn’t think it was a real problem until it stopped entirely today.”
Think of your pipes like your arteries. A slow drain is a symptom of a blockage that is growing. By the time the water stops moving, you aren’t just looking at a clog—you’re looking at a high-pressure situation that can lead to leaks or even burst pipes.
Plumbing doesn’t have to be a mystery. If you’ve got a drain that’s acting up or you’re worried about what’s going on behind your walls, give us a call. I’ll make sure it gets fixed right—the first time.
Stay dry,
Doug Young
Master Plumber & Owner
