Unclogging gurgling toilets and bathtubs can be an unfortunately common rite of passage for many of us living in homes. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Read on to discover the mistakes plumbers would never make in a bathroom and how you can avoid disastrous plumbing costs.
What We Would Never Do in a Bathroom
HuffPost reached out to plumbers about the common mistakes they have seen residents do and uncovered what they would personally never do in a bathroom after years of experience. Here are their biggest “won’ts” as lessons for us all
1. Avoid Flushing Flushable Wipes
A common misconception is that products labeled as flushable can be safely disposed of in toilets. However, many plumbing experts caution against this. AJ Jenkins, an Oklahoma City-based plumber, warns, “Flushable wipes are a huge no-no.” Kelly Ireland, a plumber from Philadelphia, elaborates that while these wipes may pass through the toilet, they can wreak havoc on plumbing systems, leading to severe clogs and costly repairs, sometimes up to $10,000. This is especially true if you have older pipes. Instead, dispose of wipes in a trash can to protect your plumbing.
2. Do Not Flush Tampons or Menstrual Products
Similar to wipes, flushing tampons and other menstrual products is another major mistake that can lead to plumbing issues. Kelly Ireland highlights that tampons expand when submerged in water, increasing the likelihood of clogs. End the frustration by using trash bins instead of toilets for these products.
3. Steer Clear of Using Drano as the Sole Unclogging Solution
Pouring Drano and other heavy-duty chemical drain cleaners down sinks or bathtubs may seem like a quick fix for clogs but can do more harm than good. According to Kelly Ireland, these products can erode the integrity of old pipes and potentially lead to significant leaks. Moreover, they may push clogs further down into pipes, creating harder-to-reach problems. For minor clogs, consider plunging as a safer, more reliable solution.
4. Avoid Installing Adjustable P-Traps
Adjustable P-traps are often advertised as convenient solutions but can cause frequent clogs. Philippe Gerber warns against installing these designs, as the ridges can trap buildup and debris, creating persistent issues. Instead, opt for standard slip nut washer traps to minimize maintenance troubles and enhance your plumbing's longevity.
5. Always Turn Off the Water Supply Before Working on Leaks
Before tackling any plumbing fixtures, turning off the water supply is crucial to avoid water damage. Carly Carey, a plumbing apprentice, insists on working with reliable shut-off valves. A faulty valve can lead to flooding, making a seemingly simple repair a major disaster.
6. Forbid the Use of Bleach Tablets for Toilet Cleaning
Although bleach tablets promise easy cleaning, they can create significant long-term issues for your toilet. As stated by Ireland, these tablets break down critical components in your toilet tank, resulting in leaks and malfunctioning flushes. Consider using natural cleaning solutions like distilled white vinegar, which is effective without compromising your plumbing’s integrity.
Final Thoughts
Maintaining a clean and functioning bathroom is a priority for all homeowners. While dealing with plumbing issues can be daunting, avoiding these six common mistakes can save significant time, money, and frustration. A handy tip is to always check bathroom materials to determine the appropriate cleaning products to use. Trusting professionals for challenging plumbing problems is a wise decision.
“If all else fails, that’s why we have professional plumbers!” emphasizes Jenkins. Protect your home and avoid costly mishaps by following the advice of experienced plumbers.