7 Ways You Might Have Damaged Your Toilets

You might not think your toilet is damaged, but it could be. Your toilet may seem like it cannot get damaged, as it just goes along, flushing away. We forget that our toilets may need some care and consideration too.

Some of the most common ways that this can happen are by using harsh chemicals or cleaners, flushing large objects down the toilet, and not repairing leaks or cracks in time. If you're not careful, you might end up with a damaged toilet that will need to be replaced-and that's an expensive repair. So, take care of your toilet and avoid these common mistakes.

Here are 7 ways you might have damaged your toilets:

1. Using harsh chemicals or cleaners:  Over time, the chemicals in harsh cleaners can break down the material of your toilet bowl and seat, causing cracks, chips, and other damage. If you must use a harsh cleaner, be sure to rinse the area well afterwards with clean water.

2. Flushing large objects or wipes down the toilet: It's tempting to flush anything and everything down the toilet, but some things just don't belong there. Large objects can get stuck in the pipes and cause a blockage, or they can break the pipes entirely. Either way, you'll be facing a costly repair bill. Flushable wipes are not flushable and will cause clogs and possible back up’s, so try never to flush these wipes down a toilet.

3. Not repairing leaks or cracks in time: Small leaks and cracks might not seem like a big deal, but they can quickly turn into big problems. Water that seeps through cracks can cause structural damage to your home, and it can also lead to the growth of mold and mildew. If you notice a leak, don't wait to get it fixed-call a plumber right away.

Flushing a toilet uses about 1.6 gallons of water per flush. So if you have a damaged toilet that leaks, then you might be wasting 5-7 gallons of water every time you flush.

4. Ignoring strange noises: If your toilet starts making strange noises, it's usually an indication that something is wrong. It could be a simple problem like a loose pipe, or it could be something more serious like a clogged drain. Either way, you should have it checked out as soon as possible.

5. Not cleaning the toilet regularly: Just like any other part of your home, your toilet needs to be cleaned on a regular basis. Otherwise, build-up from dirt, dust, and grime can lead to damage and wear over time. Be sure to clean under the rim of the bowl, and don't forget to scrub the seat and lid as well.

6. Having too much weight on the toilet: Your toilet is designed to hold a certain amount of weight, and anything beyond that can cause damage. If you have a particularly heavy person in your household, be sure to distribute their weight evenly by using a larger toilet. Never place heavy objects on your toilet tank or across the bowl.

7. Not calling a professional when there's a problem: If you're having any trouble with your toilet, it's always best to call in a professional. Plumbers have the experience and expertise to quickly diagnose and fix any problem, big or small. Trying to fix the issue yourself could end up doing more harm than good.

It's important to be aware of the ways that you might be damaging your toilet so that you can avoid them. By following these simple tips, you can help keep your toilet in good condition and prevent costly repairs down the road.

Contact Craig Plumbing if you you think you may have damage to your toilets.