Your toilet is one of the few plumbing components that work hard every day. This makes it more prone to routine malfunctions and clogs. On the good side of things, toilet maintenance isn’t a complex and demanding measure to follow.
With proactive habits and timely services, you can stay ahead of the most common and serious toilet troubles that many negligent homeowners suffer from. Here’s a comprehensive toilet maintenance guide to help you out.
Daily Habits That Make a Big Difference
Most toilet troubles are caused by your bad habits. This involves flushing down non-flushable items that form clogs. Luckily, you can also avoid them by following a conscious routine that lowers the risk of toilet clogs, leaks, and or malfunctions.
Here are some habits you must develop:
- Only flush toilet paper (no wipes, tissues, or hygiene products)
- Hold the flush lever until the bowl clears.
- Check for slow-draining water or weak flushes.
- Wipe down the exterior to spot leaks early
Weekly Toilet Check-Up
Building a strict habit that protects you from toilet plumbing problems can help, but it’s not always enough. Sometimes, plumbing troubles can still sneak up. This highlights the importance of regular toilet check-ups.
Here’s what you can do following a weekly toilet inspection routine:
- Inspect for leaks at the base or behind the tank.
- Check the flush handle and chain for sticking.
- Look for running water sounds (silent leaks)
- Drop food coloring in the tank to test for hidden leaks
Monthly Deep-Clean Routine
An unkempt toilet doesn’t just put your health and safety at risk, it also compromises your plumbing. Buildup and gunk in your toilet tank, for example, are most notoriously known for clogging and causing toilet leaks.
The simple solution? Doing at least a once-a-month deep cleaning to ensure your toilet and fixtures do not prematurely break down.
- Clean under the rim and around the jet holes.
- Use a non-corrosive toilet bowl cleaner.
- Wipe down the tank, seat, and hinges.
- Clean the flush valve and fill valve area.
Signs Your Toilet Needs Attention
Catching problems early is key to avoiding bigger plumbing issues down the road. Here are some common signs your toilet might need some attention:
- Toilet Rocks or Wobbles
A rocking toilet could be caused by a loose base or a problem with the floor beneath. Left unchecked, it can cause leaks or further damage.
- Water Pools Around the Base
If you notice water collecting around your toilet’s base, you might be dealing with a leaking seal. This is a problem that can lead to water damage, so it’s important to address it right away.
- Frequent Clogs or Slow Flushes
If your toilet seems to clog more often than usual, or it takes a long time for water to drain, there could be a buildup in the pipes or a deeper issue in the system.
- Tank Refills Constantly or Runs Nonstop
A constantly running toilet is not only annoying, but it can waste a lot of water. It’s usually caused by a malfunctioning flapper, fill valve, or flush valve.
- Cracks in the Bowl or Tank
Cracks can compromise the integrity of your toilet, potentially leading to leaks or even a full break. If you spot any cracks, it’s time to replace the toilet before it becomes a bigger problem.
Pro Tips for Long-Term Toilet Health
Preventing future issues and keeping your toilet running smoothly requires a little extra care. Here are some expert tips to extend your toilet’s life and ensure it’s always in top shape:
- Use Enzyme-Based Cleaners to Maintain Drain Flow
Unlike harsh chemical cleaners, enzyme-based products break down organic matter without damaging your pipes or toilet. They’re an excellent choice for keeping everything flowing smoothly.
- Avoid Bleach Tablets in the Tank
While convenient, bleach tablets can erode the rubber parts inside your toilet, leading to costly repairs. Stick with non-corrosive cleaners instead.
- Upgrade to Water-Saving Models
Older toilets use far more water per flush than newer, more efficient models. Upgrading to a low-flow toilet can save you money on your water bill and help conserve water.
- Insulate Pipes to Prevent Wintertime Cracking
If you live in an area with freezing temperatures, make sure your toilet pipes are insulated to avoid cracks and burst pipes during the colder months.
- Know How to Shut Off Your Toilet’s Water Supply
In case of a leak or overflow, knowing how to quickly shut off the water supply can prevent further damage to your home.
Stay Ahead of Toilet Troubles, Book Expert Toilet Services with Cornwell Plumbing
Toilet issues can be a real headache; whether it’s a clog, a leak, or a weak flush, they often come at the most inconvenient times. Left unchecked, these problems can lead to bigger, more expensive clogged toilet repairs. If you notice any signs of trouble, don’t wait! Schedule a professional toilet service to keep things running smoothly and avoid unnecessary disruptions in your home.
At Cornwell Plumbing, we offer comprehensive toilet services tailored to your needs. Whether it’s a simple clogged toilet repair, a full installation, or routine maintenance, we have the experience and tools to get the job done right. Our team is committed to delivering lasting solutions, so you can enjoy a fully functional toilet without the stress.
Book your appointment today, and let us handle the rest!
Andrew and Austin Cornwell stepped into leadership, bringing with them not just their plumbing licenses and two decades of experience each, but a vision for even better customer service.
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