A clogged toilet can be a major inconvenience, not to mention a gross and smelly mess. Fortunately, there are a few simple steps you can take to prevent your toilet from becoming clogged in the first place
- Use the toilet for its intended purpose. While it may be tempting to use the toilet as a trash can, it’s not designed to handle non-biodegradable items like paper towels, feminine products, or baby wipes. These items can easily become stuck in the pipes and cause a clog.
- Flush responsibly. Only flush human waste and toilet paper down the toilet. Anything else, like facial tissue or cotton balls, should be thrown in the trash.
- Use a toilet brush. After using the toilet, it’s a good idea to use a toilet brush to give the bowl a quick scrub. This helps to remove any excess waste and prevents it from sticking to the sides of the bowl.
- Fix leaks. A leaky toilet can waste a lot of water, and it can also contribute to clogs. If you notice that your toilet is constantly running or has a slow flush, it’s a good idea to get it repaired as soon as possible.
- Avoid using chemical cleaners. While chemical cleaners may seem like a quick and easy fix for a clogged toilet, they can actually do more harm than good. They can damage the pipes and cause them to corrode over time. Instead, try using a plunger or a toilet auger to clear a clog.
- Don’t flush too much toilet paper at once. It’s important to remember that your toilet is not a garbage disposal, and it can only handle a certain amount of waste at a time. Flushing too much toilet paper at once can cause a clog.
- Install a toilet with a larger flush valve. If you have a household with multiple people, or if you frequently have guests over, you may want to consider upgrading to a toilet with a larger flush valve. This will allow the toilet to handle more waste at once, reducing the risk of a clog.
- Consider using a low-flow toilet. Low-flow toilets use less water per flush, which can help to prevent clogs. They are also more environmentally friendly, as they use less water overall.
- Keep an eye on your pipes. If you notice that your toilet is starting to drain slowly, or if you hear gurgling noises coming from the pipes, it could be a sign that you have a partial clog. It’s a good idea to address this issue as soon as possible to prevent a full-blown clog.
- Educate others in your household. If you have children or roommates, it’s important to educate them on the proper way to use the toilet. This includes not flushing non-biodegradable items and only flushing a reasonable amount of toilet paper at a time.
By following these simple tips, you can help prevent your toilet from becoming clogged and save yourself the hassle of dealing with a messy and smelly problem. If you do experience any problems, click here to contact us today for all of your plumbing needs!
