Toilets have revolutionized the way we deal with human waste, but they can also be a pain when it comes to disposing of other items. Flushing certain household products, such as wipes and paper towels, may seem like an easy solution, but it can actually cause significant plumbing problems which would require plumbing repairs. It’s alarming to think that our pipes are only four inches in diameter at their widest, which means our seemingly small actions can have real consequences.
Not only can a clogged drain be a nuisance, but it can also be a costly repair. Spending hundreds of dollars on a plumbing professional to snake your pipes isn’t exactly a dream weekend plan. Thankfully, with a little knowledge, you can prevent plumbing repairs (and keep your wallet in check) by knowing what items can and can’t be disposed of properly.
The Perils Of Flushing The Wrong Things
When it comes to flushing things down the toilet, it’s important to remember that not everything belongs there. Flushing the wrong things like wet wipes, feminine hygiene products, or grease can cause major problems for your plumbing and the environment. If your toilet or pipes become clogged, it can result in a sewer backup into your home or building.
The consequences of this are not only disgusting, but they can also be dangerous to your health and wallet, not to mention the damage it can cause to the sewer system itself and the environment. So, next time you’re debating if something should go down the toilet, think twice and remember only to flush the three Ps: pee, poop, and toilet paper.
Baby Wipes
Flushing baby wipes down the toilet may seem like the easy solution, but it can lead to a big headache later on. Even if they say they are flushable, you should never flush these wipes down the toilet. They can cause serious plumbing issues, leaving you with a hefty repair bill and potentially even environmental damage.
Many people believe that flushable wipes are safe to flush, but the truth is that they don’t disintegrate like toilet paper does, which can lead to significant clogs in your pipes and unwanted plumbing repairs. It’s always better to throw these wipes out in the trash instead of risking a plumbing disaster down the line. Remember, when it comes to baby wipes, just because you can flush them doesn’t mean you should.
TOILET INSTALLATION & REPAIR
Dental Floss
Did you know that flushing dental floss can have environmental consequences? While you may think that you’re simply disposing of a small piece of string, you’re actually potentially causing damage to your pipes and septic system.
Dental floss can easily become entangled with other debris in your pipes, creating blockages that can lead to expensive repairs. But the problems don’t stop there. When floss gets caught in your septic system, it can wrap around parts of the motor and cause serious damage. So next time you’re about to flush your floss, think twice and toss it in the trash instead.
Paper Towels And Tissue
Although paper towels and tissues may seem similar to toilet paper, they’re not created equal. Unlike toilet paper, paper towels and tissues are simply not designed to break down in the same way. So, if you happen to find yourself in a pinch and reach for some paper towels or tissues instead of toilet paper, be sure to dispose of them in a waste basket.
While it may not seem like a big deal, flushing these items can cause serious damage to your plumbing and the environment. So, next time you run out of toilet paper, keep in mind that paper towels and tissues are not the solution.
Gum
Flushing your gum down the toilet may seem like a convenient way to dispose of it, but it’s actually a decision that could cost you big time. Gum is incredibly sticky, and not only does it increase the risk of clogging your pipes, but it could also cause significant damage to your plumbing system over time.
To make matters worse, gum is insoluble, meaning it will never break down. This creates a major risk for potential issues down the line and ultimately may end up costing you more than you bargained for in repair costs. So next time you’re pondering how to dispose of your gum, think twice before you reach for the flush lever.
Oil And Grease
One of the golden rules of keeping your plumbing in good condition is to avoid flushing food particles down your toilet. However, when it comes to the trifecta of fats, oils, and grease, it’s even more critical that you don’t dispose of them in your toilet drain.
These substances have a sneaky way of sticking to the inside of your pipes, causing an accumulation that can impede water flow and block other items from passing through. To prevent this from happening, let any leftover oily residue from cooking cool completely before throwing it away in the trash. By following this advice, you can keep your plumbing free of blockages and save yourself a massive headache in the long run.
Kinnett Plumbing: Plumbing Repairs In Woodbridge
Plumbing issues can be a major headache for both homes and businesses. Whether it’s a malfunctioning faucet, a broken garbage disposal, or a clogged toilet, these issues can cause disruption and frustration. That’s where Kinnett Plumbing comes in. Our team recognizes the importance of a working plumbing system, and we offer a wide range of services to keep your system running smoothly.
Our experienced plumbers are equipped to handle any issue and will work swiftly to diagnose the problem and provide an effective solution. So, next time you encounter a plumbing issue, let Kinnett Plumbing take care of it for you with our plumbing repairs.
