Toilet TLC: Ensuring Proper Care for One of the Most Essential Home Fixtures
Hello, Thomasville homeowners! Let’s talk about a household fixture that is frequently used but often overlooked in terms of maintenance: the toilet. Proper care ensures its longevity, reduces the risk of plumbing issues, and even saves you money in the long run. With that in mind, Bohannon Plumbing brings you a detailed guide to optimal toilet care.
Understanding Your Toilet:
Before diving into care, it’s essential to have a basic understanding of your toilet’s components:
- Tank: This holds the water that will flush the bowl’s contents down the drain.
- Bowl: The part where waste is deposited.
- Flush mechanism: Usually a handle or button that activates the flush.
- Flapper: A rubber component that lifts to release tank water during a flush, then seals again to refill the tank.
- Overflow tube: Ensures water doesn’t overflow from the tank.
Toilet Care Tips:
- Be Mindful of What You Flush: The only things meant for your toilet are human waste and toilet paper. Flushing items like wipes (even if labeled ‘flushable’), cotton swabs, feminine hygiene products, or floss can lead to clogs.
- Regularly Clean the Toilet: At least once a week, clean the bowl with a mild cleaner and toilet brush. This prevents mineral and bacterial buildup. Avoid using harsh chemicals, which can damage the porcelain and internal components.
- Inspect for Leaks: Periodically, check the base of the toilet for any water. If you notice any moisture, this could indicate a leak, which needs addressing.
- Test the Flapper: A faulty flapper can cause your toilet to run constantly, wasting water. To test, drop a few drops of food coloring into the tank. Wait an hour without flushing. If you see color in the bowl after this time, the flapper isn’t sealing correctly and may need replacement.
- Handle with Care: The flush handle can become loose over time. If it’s not operating smoothly, check inside the tank to ensure the chain or strap connected to the flapper isn’t tangled or broken.
- Avoid Over-the-Tank Fresheners: Drop-in tank fresheners might seem like a good way to keep your toilet smelling fresh, but they often break down and can clog the flush system’s parts.
- Keep the Lid Closed: This is more about hygiene. Closing the lid before flushing can prevent the spread of germs and particles into the bathroom.
What to Do When Issues Arise:
- Clogs: For minor clogs, a plunger is your best friend. Ensure you have a good seal and use a forceful up-and-down motion. If clogs are frequent or severe, it might be time to call in a plumber.
- Running Toilet: If your toilet doesn’t stop running after a flush, check the flapper and the chain inside the tank. They might need adjustment or replacement.
- Professional Help: For persistent problems or if you’re unsure about a toilet issue, it’s always best to consult with a plumbing expert.
Proper toilet care might seem trivial, but it can save you from significant inconveniences and costly repairs down the road. For any questions, concerns, or plumbing needs, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Bohannon Plumbing, your trusted local experts in Thomasville. Your toilet’s health is our priority!
In conclusion, your drains are an integral part of your home’s plumbing system and deserve respect and proper care. A little mindfulness goes a long way in maintaining smooth-running drains and avoiding unnecessary headaches. And remember, whenever you’re in doubt or face plumbing challenges, Bohannon Plumbing in Thomasville is just a call away. Our mission is to ensure every home in our community enjoys hassle-free plumbing!
Click here to learn about the Top 10 Plumbing Tips Every Thomasville Homeowner Should Know.
Our Plumbing Service Areas include:
Thomasville, NC – High Point, NC – Denton, NC – Asheboro, NC – Lexington, NC – Archdale, NC – Sophia, NC – Hillsville, NC
Call (336) 561-1261 or click here to schedule an appointment today
Author: Robert Bohannon
Robert is a licensed plumber with over 40+ years experience in both residential and commercial plumbing projects. Robert is a proud veteran and has enjoyed over 20 years of serving our communities of Thomasville and High Point, NC – all from the same location!
