February’s got spring lovers believing in light-hearted myths like a weather-predicting groundhog and a love-wielding chubby cherub.
But when it comes to your heating and plumbing systems believing in myths could lead to expensive repairs or unnecessary expenses. Check out these heating and plumbing myths debunked.
Myth #1: “A Small Leak Isn’t a Big Deal”
It’s easy to brush off a tiny leak as no big deal, but even small leaks can lead to significant problems over time. A constant drip, even if it seems minimal, can waste gallons of water each year.
In addition, prolonged leaks can cause water damage, mold growth, and structural issues that will be far more expensive to fix than repairing the leak in the first place.
The Truth: If you notice a leak, it’s essential to address it as soon as possible to avoid further damage and higher repair costs.
Myth #2: “Closing Vents in Unused Rooms Saves Energy”
Why heat and cool rooms you rarely use? It’s tempting to try to conserve energy by closing vents in a rarely unoccupied room.
The Truth: Closing vents can actually cause your HVAC system to work harder, potentially leading to system strain and higher energy bills. It can also cause uneven temperatures in your home. Instead, focus on ensuring your heating and cooling systems are properly maintained and insulated.
Myth #3: “Water Heaters Can Be Ignored Until There is an Issue”
You count on your water heater to deliver hot showers, sanitize dishes and wash your clothes, but there’s not much your water heater needs from you. Many people think that water heaters, especially traditional tank models, last for decades with no maintenance.
The Truth: The average lifespan of a water heater is around 10-15 years. Without regular maintenance, such as flushing the tank and checking for leaks, the heater may fail much sooner. If your water heater is older than 10 years, it may be time to start considering a replacement to avoid the risk of an unexpected breakdown.
Myth #4: “Plunging a Toilet Fixes Everything”
While a plunger is a great tool to clear minor toilet blockages, it’s not always the solution for more stubborn or serious clogs. Some clogs are too deep in the pipes or too severe for a simple plunge to fix.
The Truth: If plunging doesn’t clear the blockage, using a snake or calling in a plumber might be necessary. Persistent toilet clogs could signal a deeper issue, like a blocked main sewer line or a problem with the plumbing itself, requiring professional intervention.
Myth #5: “A Drain Cleaner Can Clear Most Clogged Drains”
Harsh drain cleaners are sold as quick and easy fixes for clogs, but many contain harsh chemicals that can do more harm to plumbing than good.
The Truth: Using chemical drain cleaners too often can corrode your pipes, causing long-term damage. Instead, try a mixture of baking soda and vinegar and call a plumber for persistent clogs that could indicate a larger issue with your plumbing system.
Myth #6: “My Heating System Will Work Just as Well Without Regular Maintenance”
If your heating system is running, it’s tempting to just forget about it. You might think a system will deliver heat year after year without much attention.
The Truth: Like any appliance, heating systems need regular maintenance to operate efficiently. Scheduling annual tune-ups for your furnace or boiler can prevent breakdowns, improve energy efficiency, and extend the lifespan of the system. While you’re at it, make it a plan to replace your dirty air filters to help prevent heating system breakdowns.
Contact Russo Bros. & Co. for Plumbing and Heating Issues
When it comes to plumbing and heating, there are plenty of myths that could cost you time, money, and stress. At Russo Bros. & Co. our professionals have the answers to your plumbing and heating issues.
