Toilets are great when they’re working properly. And they can be a real headache when they’re not. Thankfully, with a little preventative maintenance, you can keep your toilet running smoothly without much fuss. Here are a few tips for preventing a clogged toilet in Springfield Missouri.
Clean Regularly
Few things are as unpleasant as a dirty toilet. Regular cleaning with vinegar, baking soda or a household cleaner can go a long way in keeping your toilet looking and smelling nice, and it also make it easier to examine it for things that shouldn’t be there, such as leaks.
Regular Inspections
If your toilet doesn’t seem to be operating at peak efficiency, examine its inner workings. Even if it does seem to be working properly, examine it occasionally anyway. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Regularly remove the top of the toilet to check the flapper and fill valve, making sure that when the toilet flushes, it’s cycling the water through at the proper levels.
Flush Only The Proper Things
One of the most common reasons for a clogged toilet comes from people flushing things that shouldn’t be flushed. That includes basically anything that isn’t one of the three P's: pee, poop and toilet paper. Diapers, paper towels, cleaning wipes, feminine hygiene products and similar items are not designed to be flushed and have a high chance of clogging your sewer line.
Watch For Leaks
Leaks can be costly. Very costly. Small leaks can lead to spikes in your water bill, not to mention damage your walls and flooring. To prevent this, keep a regular eye out for leaks by examining the area around your toilet. Watch for discoloration on the floor or wall, as well as dripping water on the surrounding pipes or around the toilet’s base. If you do happen to spot signs of a leak, call a plumber in Springfield, Missouri right away.
It takes a little extra time and effort to make sure your toilet is properly maintained, but the peace of mind is worth it. Not to mention the money saved in the long run. Even with regular maintenance, toilet problems can still happen over time. If you’re having toilet problems of any sort, give United Plumbing a call. We’d be happy to help you sort your toilet troubles out and help prevent future problems from flaring up.