“The clogging nightmare.”
Clogged drains are a real pain. Fortunately, a few precautions are all it takes to avoid them.
- Use the right amount of paper.
Even if it's biodegradable, excess paper can build up. While you may find it challenging to reduce paper use in certain situations, try to be careful. Excess paper can aggravate an existing blockage. The ideal option is septic-tank-friendly toilet paper, such as a bamboo model free of dyes, fragrances, and BPA. Not only will you reduce the risk of clogs, but you'll also be doing your bit for the environment, thanks to a renewable and responsible raw material.
- Don't throw away inappropriate waste.
To protect your pipes and simplify the work of wastewater treatment plants, only flush toilet paper and body waste down the toilet. Everything else (tampons, wipes, sofas, condoms, etc.) must go in the garbage can. Packaging that says “disposable” is often misleading: it can still cause blockages and lead to a trip to the landfill or incinerator.
- Regular maintenance
A simple mixture of white vinegar and hot water poured into the bowl can dissolve residues. Disinfecting toilets regularly is essential, but beware of overly corrosive drain unblocks. These can damage pipes and cause more blockages (not to mention the cost of repairs). Similarly, chemical products used to clean the bowl can damage your toilet in the long term. If you're facing a blockage, try the good old plunger before opting for more radical solutions. Frequently cleaning your bathroom makes it look good and helps you detect leaks. When the bowl is clean and shiny, it's easier to see if the tank is filling properly or if water leaks onto the floor. The sooner you identify a problem, the sooner (and at a lower cost) you can solve it.
- Check your septic tank.
Empty your septic tank every 2-3 years if you have one
- Check the condition of the flapper.
- A weak flush can be responsible for clogging.
One of the most common causes is a flapper that doesn't open fully when flush. Located at the bottom of the cistern, this rubber seal lifts to allow water to flow into the bowl. If it remains partially closed, the flow rate will be insufficient, and waste cannot be eliminated properly. Fortunately, the solution is often simple: shorten the chain that lifts the lever on the valve so that it opens fully. Before calling in a plumber, it's worth a try!
Conclusion
Adopting these practices minimizes the risk of clogging and preserves your pipes while reducing environmental impact.
To find out more:
Find prevention tips on the Plumber website.