Next to clogged drains, stopped up or running toilets are among the most common plumbing issues in the household. For the most part, toilet issues are fairly easy to contend with. Anyone with a plunger is generally able to de-clog a toilet with a few plunges. Let it be known, however, that many a homeowner has mistaken the ease with which a toilet can be fixed. In some cases, the problem can go from bad to worse!
What can be done to avoid some of the most common toilet-fixing mistakes?
Refrain from using chemical drain cleaners.
Too often, we assume that by virtue of its name, a chemical drain cleaner will do the job it purports to do. Fair warning, it’s important to know that this product is filled with harsh chemicals that can damage your plumbing over time. This is especially true in older homes. Even if the drain cleaner unclogs your toilet, the chemicals it contains can begin to eat away the inside of your pipes. This can cause leaks and even create cracks in the porcelain.
Your best bet is to make use of the aforementioned plunger sans the drain cleaner. Opt for a flange plunger or a toilet auger. These tools are designed for toilet use and are far safer for your plumbing system.
Don’t overuse the plunger.
Okay, we know we’ve just heralded the use of this common household tool. Plungers are certainly useful in a pinch. Keep in mind though that aggressive or repeated plunging can break the wax seal between the toilet and the floor. This can lead to leaks or unpleasant odours from your sewer line. It’s smart, of course, to be gentle and consistent.
Are you curious about the perfect plunging technique? Firstly, you should position the plunger in the toilet bowl so that the water is covering the lips of the plunger. Secondly, push down with gentle force. This will help to remove the air from the plunger and get you a good seal. Next, push the plunger up and down quickly and repeat this motion until the toilet drains. Voilà!
Keep the flushing to a minimum.
When your toilet is clogged, the tendency is to flush it until it becomes officially unclogged. The idea is to basically force the clog away. However, repeated flushing can cause the toilet bowl to overflow. The last thing you want is to make a messy situation even worse. If the bowl isn’t draining properly, after plunging, stop flushing and investigate. There may be a bigger problem afoot that a plunger can’t repair.
In fact, flushing may not do anything to clear a clog if there is a larger issue at hand. For example, blocked sewer lines or tree roots may be infiltrating your system. It’s wise not to treat chronic clogs as isolated events. Have a professional inspect your plumbing to prevent bigger problems down the line.
Are you having toilet troubles?
At 2 Bro’s Plumbing, we help homes across the Durham Region with reliable, efficient toilet repairs and installations. From slow-filling tanks to leaks and constant running, our skilled plumbers can diagnose and repair any issue or help you choose and install a new toilet for your bathroom. Our family-owned company takes pride in offering honest, high-quality service and building strong relationships with our customers.
Please don’t hesitate to give us a call at 905-556-0790 or email us at admin@2brosplumbing.ca today!
