When it comes to maintaining a healthy plumbing system, what you flush down the toilet plays a critical role. Many homeowners unknowingly flush items that can cause blockages, clogs, or even serious damage to their plumbing. By understanding the right practices and habits, you can prevent costly toilet repair Petaluma and ensure that your system remains in top condition. Here’s a detailed guide on the do’s and don’ts of flushing to keep your plumbing running smoothly.
What’s OK to Flush?
The list for what you want to flush down your plumbing system is small, make sure you only flush the following:
Human Waste and Toilet Paper
The only items that should go down your toilet are human waste and toilet paper. Toilet paper is designed to break down quickly in water, making it safe for your plumbing. Other items, even those labeled as “flushable,” can lead to clogs or sewer system issues.
What’s Not OK to Flush?
Keeping the following items out of your plumbing system with prevent blockages, back-ups, or other costly repairs and potential emergency plumbing services:
Don’t Flush “Flushable” Wipes
Despite being marketed as flushable, many wipes don’t break down as easily as toilet paper. Over time, they can accumulate in pipes and create blockages, especially in older plumbing systems. Always dispose of wipes in the trash rather than flushing them.
Avoid Flushing Feminine Hygiene Products
Tampons, pads, and other feminine hygiene products are not designed to break down in water. Flushing them can lead to serious clogs and even damage your septic system. Always wrap and dispose of these items in the trash. Avoiding flushing this item can help you prevent common plumbing issues.
Don’t Flush Paper Towels or Tissues
Unlike toilet paper, paper towels and tissues are much thicker and are not designed to disintegrate in water. While they may seem harmless to flush, these items can quickly lead to blockages, especially in older plumbing systems.
Never Flush Medication
Flushing medication may seem harmless, but it can harm the environment. Sewage treatment plants aren’t equipped to filter out all the chemicals in medications, meaning they can end up in our water supply. Instead, check with your local pharmacy for safe medication disposal programs.
Don’t Flush Grease, Oil, or Food Waste
Though it may seem convenient, flushing food waste, grease, or oil can lead to significant plumbing issues. Grease and oil solidify in pipes, creating tough blockages that are difficult to clear. Instead, throw food scraps in the trash or compost them when possible. Putting these items down your drainage system at all can cause clogged drains.
Deal with Toilet Repair Fast – Yorkshire Plumbing
Your plumbing system is an essential part of your home, and improper flushing habits can lead to costly repairs. By following the flushing dos and don’ts, you can avoid clogs, protect your pipes, and keep everything flowing smoothly. However, if you do run into trouble with your plumbing, Yorkshire Plumbing is here to help.
Don’t wait for a clog to become a disaster! Trust the experts at Yorkshire Plumbing to keep your system running smoothly. Contact us today or give us a call at (707) 492-9656 for professional plumbing services and toilet repair in Petaluma or the surrounding area and prevent costly plumbing problems before they start!
