Many household items we buy these days have been redesigned to be more environmentally friendly. Some paper products will decompose better and help reduce the carbon footprint, while other items may be recycled instead of thrown away with no hope of reuse. As we obtain such items and need to dispose of them, we may be inclined to get rid of them in different ways. Certain hygiene products, for example, can now be flushed down the toilet where in the past that was ill advised. In fact, there are still a number of things one should not flush down the commode, regardless if you think it is organic or not a risk to your plumbing.
Some of the things on the following list may appear obvious, nonetheless it is good to emphasize what should not be flushed. The potential for damage to your bathroom plumbing cost end up costing you a lot of money and headaches, especially if you are not able to install a new toilet. It's important to note, too, that every unnecessary flush wastes a few gallons of water, and can jack up your water bill if you let those flushes add up.
You definitely do not want to waste those flushes on the following:
Diapers - This remains a huge no-no. Even newborn and preemie diapers have the potential to clog your drains and cause you major plumbing problems. Also, not all diapers are biodegradable. If you would prefer not to have dirty diapers in the house, consider keeping your diaper pail outside or try cloth diapers, which are more eco-friendly.
Cigarette Butts - Back in the day we may have sneaked a few smokes in a public restroom, though smoking is now banned in many restaurants and other places around the country. Even so, you don't want to toss that butt in the bowl and flush it away. Cigarettes are processed with all sorts of chemicals which get into the water system this way.
Hair - You might think, what's wrong with flushing hair? Many of us try to save a few bucks by trimming our bangs, and the temptation to flush the strands is strong. Hair clogs cause problems in sink pipes, and the same holds true for the commode. Hair should be disposed of in the garbage or, if you plan to cut long lengths, you may want to consider donating it to a charity that makes wigs of human hair.
Medications - Expired meds, vitamins, syrups, and similar items should not be flushed. In the water system, these could prove toxic and harmful.
If you are not certain about what can go down a toilet and what should be placed in the garbage, consult with your local plumber before you end up calling one in to fix your toilet due to a clog or damaged bowl.
Kathryn Lively is a freelance writer specializing in articles on Palatine plumbing services and Norfolk Virginia plumbers.
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
Friday, January 20, 2012
How to Ensure Your Plumbing Inspection Goes Well
As a homeowner, it is recommended to have a plumber come and inspect your setup at least once a year. Doing this not only gives you peace of mind that your plumbing remains in top shape, but a good inspection can help save you money in the long run. Your plumber can point out ways to adjust certain fixtures so water isn't wasted, and you may have the option of upgrading to new equipment that conserves energy. All you have to do to get started is schedule the inspection and get through it.
While an inspection is necessary to ensure the proper functionality of your home, you want to have a positive experience rather than a laundry list of to-dos when the plumber is done checking everything. It makes sense, therefore, to be proactive and give your plumber few to no anomalies while he/she gets to work. Here are just a few things to consider before the appointment.
1) Make sure there are no obstacles. You don't want the plumber to have to crawl over things to get to where he/she needs to be. Move any unnecessary objects blocking the path to make for easy access to pipes and fixtures.
2) Keeps all areas clean. Give the bathrooms and kitchen a good once-over and clean all grout and tiles. Remove any building in and around drains for easier access into the pipes.
3) Check the kitchen sink disposal unit and make sure it's clear. If possible, try not to use it just before an inspection so it's clear.
4) Pay close attention when flushing toilets. Look for anything unusual, like delays in the tank filling back up or other problems that could indicate leaks.
If you encounter any anomalies during your pre-inspection, make a list and let your plumber know. Better to nip known problems in the bud, and your plumber may be more equipped to handle minor flaws without costing you too much money.
Plumbing inspections are important in order to keep your home functioning properly. If you plan to sell your house in the near future, you will find that records of a recent inspection can help add value to your property as potential buyers come for a tour of your house. If you plan to stay indefinitely, an inspection lets you know what improvements are available to you to help cut your water and energy bills. Don't wait to get an inspection done, call your plumber today.
Kathryn Lively is a freelance writer specializing in articles on Chesapeake Virginia plumbers and Palatine plumbers.
While an inspection is necessary to ensure the proper functionality of your home, you want to have a positive experience rather than a laundry list of to-dos when the plumber is done checking everything. It makes sense, therefore, to be proactive and give your plumber few to no anomalies while he/she gets to work. Here are just a few things to consider before the appointment.
1) Make sure there are no obstacles. You don't want the plumber to have to crawl over things to get to where he/she needs to be. Move any unnecessary objects blocking the path to make for easy access to pipes and fixtures.
2) Keeps all areas clean. Give the bathrooms and kitchen a good once-over and clean all grout and tiles. Remove any building in and around drains for easier access into the pipes.
3) Check the kitchen sink disposal unit and make sure it's clear. If possible, try not to use it just before an inspection so it's clear.
4) Pay close attention when flushing toilets. Look for anything unusual, like delays in the tank filling back up or other problems that could indicate leaks.
If you encounter any anomalies during your pre-inspection, make a list and let your plumber know. Better to nip known problems in the bud, and your plumber may be more equipped to handle minor flaws without costing you too much money.
Plumbing inspections are important in order to keep your home functioning properly. If you plan to sell your house in the near future, you will find that records of a recent inspection can help add value to your property as potential buyers come for a tour of your house. If you plan to stay indefinitely, an inspection lets you know what improvements are available to you to help cut your water and energy bills. Don't wait to get an inspection done, call your plumber today.
Kathryn Lively is a freelance writer specializing in articles on Chesapeake Virginia plumbers and Palatine plumbers.
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