Often, we find that a lot of people don’t mess with or care for their plumbing systems, simply because they are unfamiliar with the systems and are too afraid that they might damage something. While we completely understand this mindset, we’re here to tell you that you can do it! All it takes is a little education and preventative care. After all, the best thing that you could ever to do for your plumbing system is simply to maintain it.
Sure, we’re the experts, but you are the expert of your own home. It is your duty to take care of it to the best of your ability. So, let’s start with something simple – your toilet.
Your toilet is probably the most used fixture in your home. It also has the potential to be one of the most problematic fixtures in your home if not properly maintained, but worry not! We’re here to share some excellent preventive tips to help keep those toilet troubles at bay. Here’s what you should know:
- Don’t flush anything that doesn’t belong. Only two things should ever go down a toilet – human waste and toilet paper.
- Consider what kind of toilet paper you are flushing. An often-overlooked element when it comes to clogs, the type of toilet paper that you use really does matter. Thicker papers may not break down as easily and will get stuck in your pipes and sewage tanks causing all sorts of clogs and backups.
- Buy a toilet plunger. A lot of toilet clogs are easy enough to fix, you just need the right tools. A plunger is good for most blocked drains, but if the problem remains, try a drain snake (or auger).
- Regularly clean your toilet. Use a mild cleaner to keep your toilet clean and buildup-free. Things like vinegar, baking soda or even mild soaps are all suitable for keeping your toilet hygienic and odor-free. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners, as these can actually damage your pipes.
- Inspect your toilet every six months. Make this a part of your regular routine to make sure that everything is working in top order. Take a moment to remove the tank lid, flush the toilet, and see that all components are working properly.
- Don’t ignore a running or leaking toilet. Toilet leaks are typically slow and can be difficult to spot since they don’t usually leave a puddle on the floor. A toilet leak is more likely to happen within the tank itself, with water leaking into the bowl, and, therefore down your drain. While this may seem harmless, think of all of that wasted water. You may as well be throwing money down the drain!
- Call a professional when it doubt. If you’ve taken all of the preventive measures that you can and still believe something’s just not right, don’t be afraid to call your plumber. If you find that your toilet keeps getting clogged or brown water starts to appear in your shower and sink after flushing, these are definite signs that there’s a more serious problem that requires expert attention.
Good, preventive maintenance will help your toilet last for many years to come. Hey, we’ve even seen some that have been working for over 70 years! So, don’t think that it’s too big of a job to take on. We know you can do it, and if you find yourself in a situation that requires more than the everyday preventative care, just give us a call. We’re always happy to help.
