As Campbell River homeowners, we often take our toilets for granted. They’re a part of our daily routine, yet we rarely think about their maintenance or when it’s time to replace them. In this post, we’ll dive into important details about toilets, from understanding when it’s time for a replacement to knowing what you should and shouldn’t flush. We’ll also explore why toilets and sink drains are treated differently when it comes to what we put down them.
When to Replace Your Toilet
Toilets are built to last, but like anything in your home, they don’t last forever. So, how do you know when it’s time for a replacement?
- Frequent Clogs: If your toilet is constantly clogging despite using proper flushing habits, it may be a sign that the internal components are worn out or that the toilet’s pipes are compromised. Constant clogs can also indicate a more serious plumbing issue, such as a blocked sewer line.
- Cracks or Leaks: Small cracks in the porcelain or leaks around the base of the toilet can lead to significant water damage. If you notice puddles around your toilet or find cracks in the bowl, it’s time for a replacement.
- Old Models: Older toilets use much more water per flush than modern models. If your toilet is over 20 years old, it may be worth replacing with a water-efficient model, especially given that new toilets use as little as 1.28 gallons per flush (GPF) compared to older models that may use 3.5 to 5 GPF.
- Constant Repair Needs: If you find yourself regularly replacing parts like the flapper, fill valve, or flush valve, and it still doesn’t seem to work properly, it’s time to consider a new toilet.
Toilet Options: What to Look For
When it’s time to upgrade your toilet, there are several options to consider. We recommend American Standard. Here are some key features to keep in mind:
- Water Efficiency: Look for toilets labeled with the WaterSense label, which guarantees that the toilet meets EPA water efficiency standards. Modern toilets use less water per flush while still providing excellent flushing power.
- Flushing Technology: Toilets come in various flushing technologies, such as gravity flush, pressure-assisted, and dual-flush systems. Each has its pros and cons:
- Gravity flush is the most common and uses gravity to move water from the tank to the bowl.
- Pressure-assisted toilets use pressurized air to help force waste down the drain, offering a powerful flush.
- Dual-flush toilets allow you to choose between a full flush for solid waste and a partial flush for liquid waste, saving water.
- Comfort: Consider the height, bowl shape, and seat design for comfort. Elongated bowls provide more room, and some models offer comfort height, which is higher than the standard for easier sitting and standing.
- Style and Finish: Choose a toilet that matches your bathroom decor. While white is the most common color, toilets come in a variety of finishes, including bone, black, and even custom colors.
The Role of Chlorine Pucks: Are They Good or Bad?
You’ve probably seen those blue chlorine pucks that people drop into their toilet tanks for cleaning. While they help keep your toilet fresh and reduce mineral buildup, they can have some drawbacks.
- Pro: Chlorine pucks are convenient and can help prevent staining and reduce the growth of bacteria in your toilet.
- Con: Over time, the chlorine can damage rubber seals and components inside your toilet. If you’re using these pucks, it’s important to replace them periodically and inspect your toilet for signs of wear. In some cases, it’s better to stick to occasional manual cleaning with a toilet brush and a gentle cleaner.
What to Flush Down the Toilet (And What Not To)
One of the most common questions homeowners ask is: What exactly can I flush down the toilet? The toilet is designed for human waste and toilet paper only. Here’s a quick guide:
What You Can Flush:
- Human waste (feces and urine)
- Toilet paper (in moderation)
What You Should NOT Flush:
- Wipes: Even if they’re labeled “flushable,” wet wipes don’t break down easily and can clog your plumbing and the city’s sewage system.
- Paper towels: Like wipes, paper towels are too thick for the toilet and cause blockages.
- Feminine hygiene products: These can cause serious plumbing issues because they don’t dissolve. This includes used products.
- Cotton balls/swabs: These can easily cause clogs.
- Dental floss: It doesn’t break down and can wrap around pipes, causing blockages.
- Food waste: Never flush food scraps; they can lead to clogging and unpleasant odors.
Remember, the toilet is designed for specific items. Flushing things that don’t belong can lead to costly plumbing repairs and environmental harm.
Why Can We Flush Things Down the Toilet But Not Down the Sink?
A common question homeowners have is why we can flush waste down the toilet but can’t pour similar items down the sink. Here’s the difference:
- Toilets: Toilets are designed to handle waste and toilet paper, which break down easily in water. The waste is sent through a larger pipe system (sewer line) where it’s treated at a wastewater treatment facility. The system is built to handle the volume and composition of waste, which is mostly water and soft materials. At Service Pro we use 3-4” pipe for our toilets.
- Sink Drains: In contrast, sink drains are narrower, and the plumbing isn’t built to handle large amounts of waste or non-degradable materials. When you pour liquids, grease, or food down the sink, they can clog the pipes or create blockages further down the line.
Where the Line is Drawn: The general rule is that anything solid (like waste or paper) should go down the toilet, and only liquids and tiny food scraps (when compostable) should go down the sink. It’s important to remember that even small amounts of non-water-soluble substances, such as cooking oils or chemicals, should never be poured down the sink as they can cause clogs and environmental harm.
Conclusion: Maintaining Your Toilet
Taking care of your toilet doesn’t have to be complicated. With regular cleaning, occasional inspections, and proper flushing habits, you can keep your toilet in great working condition for years. When the time comes to replace it, consider a modern, water-efficient model that suits your home’s needs. We are available to help with repairs or replacement, please contact us by clicking here.
By understanding the proper uses for your toilet and sink drains, and knowing when it’s time for a replacement, you can avoid plumbing issues and make sure your home’s plumbing system runs smoothly.
For more plumbing tips, repairs, and installations, contact us today for expert advice and services!