Ways to Avoid Clogged Toilets and Sewer Lines
Clogged toilets can be inconvenient, but there are ways to help prevent them. Additionally, a toilet that seems to always be clogged can be an indicator of bigger problems, such as a clogged sewer line. So, it’s important to know how to help avoid clogged toilets and sewer lines. This post will share some tips to improve the habits in the home and work to prevent clogged toilets and sewer lines.
Think Before Flushing
If homes deal with toilet clogs, it could be due to bad flushing habits. What types of things are being flushed down the toilet? Are there things like wipes, tissues, and hygiene products that regularly get flushed? These items are problematic and can lead to blockages that cause not just a clogged toilet but potentially a clogged sewer line, too.
The only item that should get flushed down the toilet is toilet paper. Homeowners should ensure there is a wastebasket available in the bathroom for disposal of all other items. To avoid toilet clogs and sewer line clogs, never flush items like:
- Paper towels
- Tissues
- Diapers
- Wipes of any kind – not even ones labeled flushable
- Dental floss
- Cotton balls
- Cotton swabs
- Feminine hygiene products
Avoid Flushing Too Much Toilet Paper at Once
Another bad habit is flushing too much toilet paper at one time. Obviously, it’s important to use enough toilet paper to get the job done, but the toilet can only handle so much at once before clogs occur. It can also lead to clogs in the sewer pipes. Use these tips to avoid clogs from too much toilet paper:
- Only use as much toilet paper as is actually needed
- When more toilet paper is needed, flush smaller amounts at a time
- Teach children in the home how to use a reasonable amount of toilet paper
Treat the Sewer Line Right
Homeowners can get regular plumbing inspections and maintenance to help keep sewer pipes clear and reduce clogged toilet problems caused by blocked sewer lines. When a sewer line is clogged, it’s important to call a professional plumber to unclog it. However, there are also ways for households to help prevent a clogged sewer line.
Besides the toilet habits mentioned above, more ways to help prevent a sewer line clog are by avoiding putting food waste and cooking grease, oil, and fats down the drains. Another thing that can help prevent sewer line clogs is using mesh drain screens over the home’s drains to catch hair, food scraps, and other things to prevent them from going down the drain and contributing to clogs and blockages in the sewer line. Tree roots should also be kept away from underground sewer lines to prevent them from clogging the line.
About Jim Wagner Plumbing, Inc.
Jim Wagner Plumbing, Inc. is a local and affordable heating, air conditioning, and plumbing company serving the Lombard area. They offer flat-rate pricing, fast turnarounds, and quality solutions. Call them for residential plumbing services in Lombard, IL.
