You rely on your toilets every day, so leaks and other damage can disrupt your lifestyle. Follow these best practices to avoid clogged drains, leaks, and other plumbing problems. 

Do:

Learn what you can’t flush.

Many everyday items can cause clogs if you flush them. Always toss baby wipes, cleaning pads, diapers, dental floss, cotton balls, and hygiene products in the trash. These absorb water, expand, and create blockages deep inside the plumbing. 

Be wary of supposedly approved items as well. Flushable wipes don’t dissolve as quickly as toilet paper and still contribute to blockages. When in doubt, put the item in the trash.

Check for leaks each year.

Toilet leaks aren’t always easy to see but contribute to roughly 10% of household water waste each year. To check for leaks, put a few drops of food coloring in the tank, then wait 10 minutes. If the dye appears in the bowl, you have a leak and should contact a plumber.

Also, check the rubber flapper that creates the valve seal in your tank. If it’s warped, flattened, or damaged, replace it.

Don’t:

Use chemical cleaners.

Chemical cleaners may loosen a tough clog, but they might erode the plumbing as well. Many are dangerous to handle or breathe in as well, so it’s best to leave chemical cleaning to a professional.

Also, avoid coarse toilet brushes since they might leave unsightly scratches.

Climb on the toilet.

Using your toilet as a stepping stool creates many problems. You might break the seat, damage the piping, or fall and injure yourself. In general, be careful handling any tools or heavy items around the toilet since a substantial impact can crack the tank.

 

Contact Fast Rooter Plumbing when you have toilet issues. The Oahu plumber is backed by 20 years of experience and specializes in repairing clogged fixtures with hydro jetting and drain cleaning techniques. Call (808) 734-4938 to schedule an inspection, or visit their website to learn more about their capabilities.