When it comes to maintaining your home, plumbing is one of those areas where a little misinformation can lead to big, expensive problems. Over the years, certain “plumbing tips” have been passed around that sound helpful but can damage your pipes, increase your water bills, or create costly emergencies. Let’s bust three of the most common plumbing myths that could hit your wallet hard.

Myth #1: “Flushable” Wipes Are Safe for to flush
Truth: They’re a clog waiting to happen.

Manufacturers label them “flushable” because they break down more easily than regular wipes, but that doesn’t mean they disintegrate as quickly as toilet paper. They often remain intact long enough to snag on pipe edges, catch other debris, and form stubborn blockages.

Why It’s Costly:
A single wipe can start a chain reaction of buildup, leading to slow drains, repeated toilet backups, and—if left untreated—serious sewer line clogs. Repairs can cost hundreds to thousands of dollars, especially if the blockage happens in your main sewer line.

Better Option:
Stick to toilet paper only. If you like the feel of wipes, dispose of them in the trash instead of flushing them to avoid issues.

Myth #2: Small Leaks Are Not an Emergency
Truth: Even tiny drips can turn into major headaches and cause expensive damage if not addressed.

It’s easy to ignore a slow drip under the sink or a faucet that only leaks occasionally. After all, how much damage can a few drops of water do? The answer: a lot. That small leak is constantly adding moisture to the area, and over time, that can lead to mold, warped cabinetry, damaged flooring, and increased water bills. In many cases leads to illness and medical bills.

Why It’s Costly:
A faucet dripping once per second can waste more than 3,000 gallons of water in a year. That’s money going down the drain—and that’s before you factor in water damage repairs, which can be much more expensive than the original plumbing fix. If left unattended, a small leak can lead to a large insurance claim to rectify.

Better Option:
Call a plumber as soon as you notice a leak, no matter how minor it seems. A quick repair now can prevent a major expense later.

Myth #3: All Plumbers Charge the Same Rates
Truth: Pricing, service quality, and expertise can vary dramatically.

Many homeowners assume that calling any plumber will cost roughly the same amount for the same service. In reality, plumbers set their pricing based on experience, certifications, equipment, and even the guarantees they offer. Sometimes, the cheapest option upfront ends up costing more if the work isn’t done properly.

Why It’s Costly:
Hiring the wrong plumber can mean repeat visits, shoddy repairs, and no warranty on the work. That “cheaper” $150 job might end up being a $500 repair later if it fails and causes additional damage. If you think hiring a “Good” plumber is expensive try hiring a “Bad” one. 

Better Option:
Research local plumbers, check reviews, ask about warranties, and make sure they are licensed and insured. Paying for quality work the first time can save you hundreds—or thousands—in the long run. If the plumber charges a small service fee to come out and investigate the issue, that usually means they are a prized company and they do not want to waste their time on the wrong customers who want free plumbing advice. Well-respected companies will charge a small fee in lieu of the old bait-and-switch approach once on site. A good plumber will take his time and do the job right. A good plumber knows their time is valuable and will charge for their experience. If it sounds to good to be true, it usually is. Some companies will tell you they do fee estimates and then try a hard sell once they are in your home. So the free estimate turns into a plumbing job that cost twice as much as a company that charges for their time up front. The free plumber needs to make up for drive time and investigation time so they over charge you after.

The Bottom Line

Protecting your home’s plumbing means separating fact from fiction. Don’t let so-called “quick fixes” or harmless-seeming assumptions put your home at risk.

At V & L Plumbing, Inc., we’ve seen the damage these myths can cause—and we’re here to help you avoid costly repairs. Whether it’s a pesky clog, a hidden leak, or a plumbing mystery you just can’t figure out, we have the tools, experience, and know-how to fix it right the first time.

Don’t wait for a small problem to turn into an expensive disaster—call today and get your plumbing back in top shape.