The toilet is among the most used plumbing fixtures in the home. Unfortunately, it’s also one of the most overlooked. But given its function, it becomes hard to ignore once it develops a problem. That’s why it’s essential to give the unit regular maintenance to ensure it always works as it should. 

Do:

Mind what you flush.

Avoid throwing items like wet wipes, diapers, sanitary products, cotton balls, and cat litter into the bowl. Since they don’t break down quickly, they can clog up the pipes, which may result in sewage backups later on. Also, use toilet paper that disintegrates quickly instead of thick-ply alternatives.

Clean it regularly.

Take the time to clean your toilet regularly to make it more sanitary and fresh-looking. Doing so also allows you to inspect the toilet for any leaks or minor issues with your plumbing system. Place a rag around the toilet base and check it for water seepage. Aside from cleaning, have a professional come in and inspect it periodically for maintenance work.  

Don’t:

Use harsh chemicals.

When cleaning, avoid acid-based cleaners, which can corrode pipes over time, leading to bigger plumbing troubles down the road. Instead of chemical cleaners, use a plunger or drain snake to clear up clogs. 

Ignore a running toilet.

A constantly running toilet consumes water, which can lead to spikes in your utility bill. Since the leaking problem may be attributed to a couple of reasons, have a professional plumber look into it instead of trying to fix the issue on your own. In general, don’t hesitate to call an expert whenever you notice anything out of the ordinary with your toilet—early detection prevents costly repairs down the line.

If you need emergency plumbing assistance for your toilet, count on the professionals at A-1 Budget Plumbing of Honolulu, HI. Helping residents throughout the island of Oahu, their highly trained plumbers have provided exceptional plumbing services since 1986. Call (808) 526-3747 to schedule a same-day visit, or find out more about their services on their website.