Your toilet is a vital fixture in your home for sanitation purposes. To keep it in top shape and help you avoid emergency calls to your plumber, follow these maintenance do’s and don’ts.

Do:

Inspect for toilet leaks.

Every year, check your toilet for leaks. Catching minor issues early can save you a major headache down the road. Place a couple of drops of food coloring in the tank. If you notice color in the bowl, you may have a toilet leak.

Keep a plunger nearby.

Plungers can help you purge small clogs in your system. Keep one in each bathroom so you can quickly grab it in times of trouble. If clogs persist, call a plumber for help.

Call a plumber.

Basic toilet maintenance is not beyond the ability of a homeowner, but major repairs should be left to the professionals. If you notice chronic leaks, clogs, or your bathroom begins to smell of sewage, call a plumber.

Don’t:

Overdo the toilet paper.

Watch how much paper is going down the pipes. While toilets are designed to handle waste and tissue, huge amounts can lead to clogs. Also, be mindful of items that claim to be flushable, like baby wipes. In most cases, they don’t dissolve as well as they claim.

Use chemicals.

Avoid putting chemicals in your plumbing, whether in your cleaners or toilet fresheners. Don’t use drain cleaners. Even though they’re effective at breaking up clogs, they’ll also damage your pipes.

Skip cleaning.

Cleaning the toilet will get rid of odors and lengthen its life span. Avoid abrasive, chemical cleaners that will not only damage your pipes and drains but also scratch the porcelain of your bowl.

If you need help with toilet leaks and other plumbing issues, call Quality Plumbing in Honolulu, HI. Since 2007, these professional plumbers have offered same-day and 24-hour service for both commercial and residential customers. Call (808) 384-0412 to make an appointment.