Tips for Avoiding Clogged Toilets

Why Does the Toilet Keep Clogging?

Toilets and their associated plumbing are capable of dealing with the messes that are put in them daily without clogging. However, this is not the experience of most people. Most people will experience a toilet clog, and some may even have a toilet that clogs often. For those who have to deal with clogged toilets, the problem may be caused by user error. Here are some tips to prevent toilet clogs and sewer line clogs.  

Be Mindful of What Gets Flushed

toilet paper One of the worst habits to get into when living in a home is using the toilet like a trash can. Too often, people simply discard small trash in the basin and flush it away. The problem is toilets were not intended for this purpose, and various types of waste will contribute to sewer line clogs and toilet clogs. Be mindful of what gets flushed to make toilets more reliable and less likely to clog.

Aim to flush only toilet paper and human waste. Anything else is likely to cause problems. Even if it doesn’t clog the toilet immediately, it can lead to clogs in the sewer line. Always provide wastebaskets near toilets for disposing of tissues, paper towels, wipes, cotton balls or swabs, hygiene products, and more. 

Use Less Toilet Paper or Flush More Often if Needed

toilet paper Toilet clogs are far less likely if the first tip is followed. However, they can still happen if people insist on trying to flush too much toilet paper down the toilet at once. For reliable flushing and preventing clogs, a toilet has to be able to break up the mass of toilet paper as it flushes. 

When too much is flushed at once, it can clog the toilet or sewer lines. Avoiding this problem can be done by flushing less toilet paper, or if more toilet paper is needed, flushing the toilet multiple times and sending smaller amounts of toilet paper down the toilet at a time will help ensure the toilet and sewer lines are able to handle it.  

Make an Effort to Prevent Sewer Line Clogs

One thing that is often overlooked is that a clogged sewer line could be contributing to clogged toilets. As a clog forms in the sewer line, the toilets nearby won’t be allowed to fully flush. When signs of a sewer line clog are noticed, a plumber should be called for drain cleaning to unclog the line

Besides the tips previously mentioned, homeowners should follow other good drain habits to help prevent sewer line clogs. These include things like: 

  • Discarding food scraps in the trash rather than the drains
  • Never pour grease or cooking oil into the drains
  • Use mesh screens or hair catchers in shower and tub drains
  • Avoid planting trees near buried sewer lines 

By following these tips, homeowners can help protect their sewer line and prevent toilet clogs. 

About Super Plumbers

Super Plumbers is a family-owned and operated company serving the Tyler, TX, area. They offer competitive, flat-rate pricing and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Call them for clogged toilet repair service in Tyler, TX

Start Off the Year Right by Avoiding These Plumbing Mistakes

Avoid These Three Plumbing Mistakes in 2023

For families that were plagued with plumbing problems in 2022, 2023 is a fresh start. Each year has enough trouble of its own without having to struggle with challenges in the home’s plumbing. This year, resolve to make things go smoothly by avoiding common plumbing mistakes. Here are some tips to help homeowners avoid these common, costly plumbing problems so they can start the year off right. 

Using Liquid Drain Cleaners 

clogA drain clog is a pain that can limit the usage of bathtubs, bathroom sinks, and kitchen sinks. Instead of turning to professionals to relieve the frustration, many homeowners' first option is to try a plumber in a can, a liquid drain cleaner. Liquid drain cleaners are harsh and dangerous chemicals that are hazardous to use and store. Unfortunately, they aren’t even very good at removing clogs, and they have a tendency to chemically burn the piping and cause corrosion. This harsh chemical action destroys metal pipes and certain types of plastic, leading to the need for significant repairs. 

This year, instead of ruining plumbing and compounding problems, try more successful methods instead. Homeowners can try cleaning their own drains using classic methods like baking soda and vinegar. However, the most effective option is drain cleaning by professional plumbers. They have the specialized tools like drain snakes and hydro jets needed to clear clogs safely and prevent them from forming in the future. A drain cleaning technician can clean every drain in the home in one quick visit while preventing unnecessary damage.  

Forgetting Water Heater Maintenance 

maintenanceThe water heater is an essential home appliance and needs routine maintenance to keep it working safely and efficiently. It is also guaranteed to last longer with professional maintenance. Plumbers can catch any issues with the water heater before they become worse and cause more damage to the unit, requiring a premature replacement. 

By investing in water heater maintenance, homeowners can take advantage of benefits like:

  • Increased longevity
  • Fewer repairs
  • Lower utility bill
  • More hot water 

Not Hiring Professionals for Plumbing Work 

Unfortunately, many of the plumbing problems that plague homeowners they bring upon themselves. Amateur plumbing and handyman repairs may seem like they will save money upfront, but unskilled repairs and installations often lead to future plumbing problems. To prevent costly mistakes, hiring a qualified plumber is always best. 

In the long run, hiring a professional plumber is almost always the cheaper option. Plumbers are licensed and insured to protect their clients and have the knowledge and experience to complete plumbing work safely and effectively. On top of that, they have the right tools and expertise to do jobs faster, so this year, homeowners should always hire qualified professionals for plumbing work. 

About Super Plumbers

Super Plumbers is a family-owned and operated business serving Tyler, TX, and the surrounding areas. They provide upfront pricing, financing, and 24/7 emergency repairs. Call them today for plumbing, drain cleaning, or water heater services in Tyler, TX.