Plumbing is one of those household systems that often goes unnoticed—until something goes wrong. And when it does, many Burien homeowners turn to quick fixes or age-old advice passed down from friends, family, or the internet.
Unfortunately, many of these “tips” are actually plumbing myths that can cause more harm than good.
At Einstein Pros Burien, we’ve seen firsthand how these misconceptions can lead to costly repairs, water damage, and even health risks.
In this article, we’ll bust the top 7 plumbing myths still believed by many Burien residents and help you keep your home’s plumbing system healthy and efficient.
Myth #1: A Leaky Faucet Is No Big Deal
Many homeowners ignore a dripping faucet, assuming it’s just a minor nuisance. But in reality, a single leaky faucet can waste over 3,000 gallons of water per year.
According to the EPA WaterSense Program, fixing household leaks can save 10% on water bills annually.
💡 Truth: That drip is costing you money and contributing to water waste. Schedule a plumbing inspection in Burien to fix it promptly.
Myth #2: Flushable Wipes Are Safe to Flush
Despite what the label says, so-called “flushable” wipes don’t break down like toilet paper. These wipes can clog pipes, damage your sewer system, and contribute to major backups in Burien’s wastewater infrastructure.
Consumer Reports has tested these products and concluded that none disintegrated adequately in water, leading to long-term pipe blockages (source).
💡 Truth: Only flush toilet paper and human waste. Toss wipes in the trash—even if the package says “flushable.”
Myth #3: Hot Water Melts Grease Down the Drain
Pouring hot water and grease down your kitchen sink seems harmless—until it cools. When the grease solidifies in the pipes, it traps debris and causes nasty clogs.
💡 Truth: Let grease cool and dispose of it in the trash, not your plumbing. For stubborn kitchen sink clogs, our drain cleaning experts in Burien can help.
Myth #4: Plumbing Fixtures Don’t Need Maintenance
Homeowners often assume that fixtures like water heaters, faucets, and toilets don’t require maintenance until they break.
But like any system, preventive care is key. Regular maintenance can extend the life of your plumbing by years, saving you thousands.
💡 Truth: Scheduling annual plumbing checkups can prevent surprise breakdowns and increase energy efficiency.
Myth #5: All Plumbers Are the Same
This is one of the most harmful myths. Not all plumbing companies are licensed, insured, or reputable. Hiring the wrong plumber can result in improper installations or failed repairs.
💡 Truth: Always verify licensing and customer reviews. At Einstein Pros Burien, our licensed technicians provide top-rated, trustworthy service backed by decades of experience.
Myth #6: In-Tank Toilet Cleaners Keep Your Toilet Clean
Blue toilet tablets may make your bowl look clean, but they often contain corrosive chemicals that damage rubber gaskets and seals inside the tank.
Over time, this can lead to leaks and expensive repairs.
💡 Truth: Use mild toilet bowl cleaners and avoid in-tank tablets. For persistent odors or clogs, consider a professional toilet inspection in Burien.
Myth #7: Running Water While Using the Garbage Disposal Helps Everything Go Down
It’s common advice to run water while using the garbage disposal. While water does help move food waste, it doesn’t break down stringy, starchy, or greasy foods.
Items like potato peels, celery, and pasta can gum up the disposal and clog your pipes.
💡 Truth: Know what not to put in your disposal. When in doubt, throw it out—or call us for garbage disposal repair in Burien.
Final Thoughts: Plumbing Myths Can Cost You
Believing and acting on plumbing myths can lead to long-term damage, expensive repairs, and health hazards.
Whether you’re dealing with a leaky faucet, a clogged drain, or just want to schedule preventive care, trust the licensed professionals at Einstein Pros Burien. We offer reliable, transparent, and high-quality plumbing solutions for homeowners and businesses across Burien and the greater Seattle area.
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