Easton Plumber Dispel Common Myths That Result in Plumbing Issues

Lehigh Valley, PA (PRWEB) August 18, 2013

Lehigh Plumbing is familiar with product claims that are designed to make life more convenient. That convenience can have a high price and the products are often the source of damage to a plumbing and sewer or septic system. Dan Welch, owner of Lehigh Plumbing shares his experience with products that cause common plumbing problems.

Garbage disposals

Garbage disposals are sold with the notion of being environmentally beneficial. Food waste is shifted from a landfill to a local waste water treatment facility. Dan points out, Food is bio-degradable. Placing food, specifically fat, oil and greasy residue down the drain will clog plumbing lines. Overtime grease build up can clog a homeowners sewer system which can be expensive to repair.

Flushable disposable wipes

Disposable wipes are becoming increasingly popular. They are hyped as an alternative to toilet paper and made for the entire family. Many are advertised that they can be flushed. Some even claim they are septic safe. When we come to fix a backed up drain line, its not uncommon that we are snaking out these wipes, says Dan. Despite claims, flushable wipes do not dissolve in the sewer an often cause clogged and overflowing toilets.

Liquid drain cleaner

Liquid drain cleaners offer homeowners the convenience of eliminating a clogged drain themselves. Many drain cleaners on the market are an acid base chemical. They are created to eat away at paper, hair or other material causing clogs. "Depending on the type of drain cleaner you are using and the kind of pipes you have in your home, it is possible for that cleaner to eat away at your pipes, reports Dan. Homeowners are not only left with a clogged drain but damage pipes as well.

On a side note, Lehigh Plumbing has a helpful tip for homeowners facing an emergency situation, shut off the water. When a pipe bursts or water is leaking and flowing everywhere it is best for homeowners to remain calm and locate the main shut off valve to turn the water off, says Dan.

Shutting off water can prevent further damage to your property. Homeowners should know where their shut off valve is located. It can usually be found in the basement or somewhere inside the home adjacent to the water meter. We have dealt with homeowners who panic and shut off the valve and break it. When this happens, the city water department has to be called to shut the water off at the street, says Dan.

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Easton Plumber Dispel Common Myths That Result in Plumbing Issues