Toilet Flushing 101
As a homeowner you must balance taking care of a lot of different systems in your house. What's one fixture you use the most? The toilet, of course. Although you might think that toilets can withstand many different materials, these fixtures are actually incredibly sensitive. In fact, flushing the wrong things can create big problems for you and the environment. Here's what you need to know about flushing items down your Port St. Lucie, Florida, toilet:
The general rule of thumb is that you should not flush anything but waste and toilet paper. The truth is that your plumbing systems are more sensitive than you think. A material you never thought twice about flushing could damage your entire system. Here are a few items that should never meet your toilet bowl and why:
Antibiotics and other pills
Sure, flushing pills down the toilet may sound like an easy way to get rid of them, but it actually can pose a threat to the environment and its inhabitants. When released into the sewer systems, certain pills can eliminate helpful bacteria in the water - the same water that animals drink. Don't risk it - toss the pills in the garbage.
Any kind of wipes
If you have a little one in the house, you may be using plenty of wipes regularly. Although the packaging may say that they're "flushable," they aren't. The material doesn't break down completely and can get caught on pipes, causing blockages. As a result, you could experience major backup and even flooding in your home. Plus, they're not biodegradable. When wipes slip through the sewage systems, they make it into the ocean. Sea creatures often mistaken them for food and can die after they consume them. Just keep wipes out of the toilet - for everyone's sake.
Feminine hygiene products
Ever wonder about the sign on most restaurant bathroom stalls that says, "Do not flush feminine products"? Well, they're onto something. These products are made to absorb water and increase in size. Therefore, they can expand in your plumbing, making it virtually impossible for them to pass through the pipe lines and sewers. Be sure to add a garbage can to your bathroom for ladies to dispose of these products, and even consider putting a sign up if you're having people over.
If you’ve made one or two of these mistakes and your toilet is now clogged. Be sure to reach out to your local Port. St. Lucie Roto-Rooter for help!