3 Ways To Avoid A Toilet Paper-Related Plumbing Issue
Toilet paper is a must-have in any bathroom, but it is also important to note that it can also be a source of stress. Misusing toilet paper or using the wrong type of toilet paper can quickly lead to a clogged toilet and the potential for greater plumbing issues. Learn more about protecting your plumbing system from a toilet paper-related issue.
1. Less Is More
Again, toilet paper is necessary for a bathroom, but there is no rule that you must use it excessively. If you want to protect your plumbing system, it is best to take a less is more approach to toilet paper use. Yes, toilet paper is designed to dissolve when in water, but it is important to understand that the dissolving process does not occur immediately but over time.
For this reason, placing a large amount of toilet paper inside the bowl might take some time for the paper to dissolve, leading to a clog. If you notice that you have clogs in the toilet that resolve themselves, this issue might be to blame.
2. Choose Thickness Wisely
Most people want to have an enjoyable experience when using toilet paper, so they choose the thickest toilet paper option they can find. However, thick toilet paper is not always the best. For example, if you have a newer toilet, it is probably a low-flow toilet.
Low-flow toilets are great because they use less water and require less water pressure, which makes them more efficient. However, thick toilet paper, such as 3- or 4-ply, does not work best with these toilets because the limited water level and pressure make it harder to move the paper through the system, often leading to a clog. A thinner toilet paper is typically best for homeowners with a low-flow toilet.
3. Pipe Age Matters
If you want to minimize issues with your plumbing system, you should also consider the age of your home. Generally, if you have an older home, you probably want to use thinner toilet paper, such as one or 2-ply. Over time, sludge and other debris collect inside pipes, narrowing their opening.
Thinner toilet paper takes up less space, dissolves faster, and moves through these narrowed spaces more efficiently than thicker, 3- or 4-ply paper, so choose your paper wisely.
Remember all these tips to avoid an issue with your plumbing system. Contact a plumbing contractor for assistance if you have an issue.
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