When it comes to your plumbing, there are some things you just shouldn’t flush down the toilet. While most items will go down without a problem, these 6 things can cause clogs and other plumbing nightmares. If you’re not sure what they are, read on! We’ll discuss each item in detail and tell you why it’s best to avoid flushing it down the toilet.
Flush only human waste and toilet paper down the toilet
We’ve all been there before. You’re in the bathroom, doing your business, when you realize that there’s no toilet paper left. In a panic, you grab whatever is within reach and use it to wipe.
However, before you flush, you should take a moment to consider what you’re about to do.
Non-flushable items can cause a major clog in your plumbing, leading to costly repairs. In addition, they can create an unsanitary situation that can be dangerous for you and your family. In case you aren’t sure, here is a list of non-flushable items you should look out for:
- Baby wipes and other wet wipes – even if they say “flushable” on the package!
- Paper towels – these are much thicker than toilet paper and can cause clogs!
- Feminine hygiene products – these can expand when wet and cause clogs!
- Cotton swabs or cotton balls – these can break apart and clog your plumbing!
- Hair or fur clippings – these can tangle around other items and create a clog!
- Dental floss – this is a very thin string that can wrap around other items and cause clogs!
So next time you’re out of toilet paper, resist the urge to flush anything other than human waste and toilet paper. Your pipes will thank you for it.
Avoid flushing wipes, napkins, tampons, or other feminine products
While many people think that it is safe to flush feminine products down the toilet, doing so can actually cause a major clog. Wipes, napkins, and tampons can all become stuck in the pipes, leading to a backed-up toilet. In some cases, the entire sewer system can become blocked, causing raw sewage to back up into homes and businesses.
In addition to being a major health hazard, this can also lead to costly repairs. As a result, it is always best to avoid flushing feminine products down the toilet. Instead, dispose of them in the garbage or in a designated disposal bin so you can avoid any plumbing issues.
Don’t put anything down the drain that isn’t meant to be flushed – this includes grease, food particles, and hair
Clogged toilets are a homeowners’ nightmare. Not only are they incredibly messy, but they can also be expensive to fix. In many cases, the cause of a clogged toilet is simply that people are putting things down the drain that don’t belong there. Grease, food particles, and hair can all build up over time and cause a blockage.
As a result, it’s important to only flush water and waste down the toilet. By following this simple rule, you can help prevent costly repairs and keep your toilet flowing freely, without any clogs.
If you have a septic tank, avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach or Drain-o to clean your drains
Most people are familiar with septic tanks, but not everyone knows how to properly care for them. One of the most important things to remember is to avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach or Drain-o to clean your drains.
These chemicals can kill the beneficial bacteria that help break down waste in the septic tank, leading to a build-up of sewage and eventual system failure. Although it may be tempting to use these products when confronted with a clog, it is always best to reach for a natural alternative like boiling water or vinegar. With a little care and attention, your septic tank will provide years of trouble-free service.
Inspect your home’s plumbing regularly for leaks and clogs
Professional plumbers recommend that homeowners inspect their plumbing at least once a year for leaks and clogs. Although many homeowners are familiar with the need to check their home’s plumbing, they may not know how to properly inspect their system.
First, it is important to visually inspect all exposed pipes for signs of leaks or corrosion. Next, turn on all of the faucets in your home and flush all of the toilets to check for proper water pressure. Finally, use a plunger to clear any clogs from the drains. By following these simple steps, you can help keep your plumbing in top condition and prevent expensive repairs in the future.
Call a plumber if you experience any plumbing problems – they can help unclog your drains and fix any leaks
As every homeowner knows, plumbing problems can be a real headache. Clogged drains, leaky faucets, and running toilets can all cause major disruptions to your daily routine.
Fortunately, there is no need to suffer through these inconveniences for long. Simply pick up the phone and call a plumber. Plumbers are trained professionals who have the tools and expertise to quickly fix any plumbing problem. In addition to unclogging drains and repairing leaks, plumbers can also install new fixtures and make sure that your plumbing system is up to code. So don’t wait for your plumbing problems to get worse – call a plumber today.
While we hope you never experience a clog, it’s always best to be prepared. If you do find yourself with a backed-up sink or toilet, don’t hesitate to give us a call. Our team of experienced plumbers can help unclog your drains and get your plumbing back up and running in no time. Have any other questions about how to keep your drains clear? Leave them in the comments below and we’ll do our best to answer them.
