How to Protect Your Toilet

Your toilet is a staple in your household, and it can be easy to take this plumbing essential for granted. It runs and disposes of waste efficiently, so when it no longer functions properly, you can see your entire schedule disrupted. A major toilet problem might need attention from a plumber and costly repairs.

But you can keep your toilet looking and feeling its best when you take good care of this appliance. Routine maintenance and proper usage will help to keep a toilet running smoothly. Read on to find three tips from your local plumber that can reduce your chances of forming clogs and other problems with your toilet.

Be Careful What You Flush

The pipes within your toilet are designed to handle water, toilet tissue, and human waste. Anything else, including feminine hygiene products, could create problems in the sewage system or block the pipes. You should throw these items in the trash instead of flushing them to protect your plumbing.

Teach children not to flush outside items down the toilet too. Kids’ curiosity can lead them to try flushing toys and other objects, which will seriously damage the toilet.

To discourage kids and pets from reaching the toilet, keep the toilet lid closed when not in use. This has the added benefit of improving sanitation in the bathroom and preventing accidental clogs if something should fall into the toilet.

Keep Your Toilet Clean

Cleaning your toilet with a brush and mild cleaner will eliminate harmful germs and bacteria from the appliance. It will keep it looking and smelling fresh as well. But you should complete regular cleaning of your toilet to ensure it runs properly as well.

Plus, if you keep the toilet clean, you can more clearly see if a problem arises. An untidy toilet and surrounding area may hide a leak or clog. So do not delay cleaning this appliance, and avoid harsh cleaning materials that might damage the toilet and septic system as it cleans.

Address Toilet Concerns Promptly

If you do spot any changes in the way your toilet functions or any problems, address them in a timely fashion. Ignoring an issue with your toilet will give it time to worsen. And you could then face more extensive and costly repairs to get it running again as a result.

If you notice a constant sound of running water, for instance, look into fixing the issue. This type of leak will run up your water bill too, so you do not want to lose money by dismissing the problem.

You can fix most minor clogs in a toilet using a plunger. But a stubborn clog might need the more in-depth tools and training that a plumber can provide.

Do not be afraid to call a plumber for help with more complicated concerns about your toilet. This early intervention from a professional can stop a plumbing emergency from progressing in your toilet, sewage system, or plumbing.