Over the last several weeks we have seen major steps being taken to suppress the spread of the coronavirus. With social distancing orders in place, most people are staying home. So what does this mean for your plumbing system? With more people spending more time at home, they are probably unaware of the extra pressure they are putting their plumbing. Add to that the great toilet paper shortage of 2020, and you have a recipe for disaster. Here are some tips to help keep your plumbing fully operational.
Can’t Flush, Won’t Flush
Over the last several weeks we have seen some pretty crazy behavior, particularly where toilet paper is concerned. Across the country a great phenomenon has taken place. Stocks of toilet paper have disappeared off of store shelves everywhere. Toilet paper hoarding has depleted toilet paper resources, leaving many unable to replenish their normal supply. In the wake of the great toilet paper shortage of 2020, many have gone to plan b.
Plan B
Plan b is what we are particularly concerned about. As toilet paper has become scarce many have started turning to other paper products including: paper towels, paper napkins, face tissues, and wipes. The problem with these products is they do not disintegrate the way toilet paper does. Even flushable wipes are a problem. If you have resorted to plan b, please do yourself a favor and put all non toilet paper products in the trash can.
Items like the items mentioned above can get stuck in your pipes. They don’t disintegrate and because of this can obstruct the flow of water. This can lead to an almost instantaneous clog. In addition, if said items make it through your plumbing they can form massive clogs with other debris like hair and grease and wreak havoc on the entire neighborhood. These massive clogs are known as fatbergs, and have been disrupting plumbing systems across the globe.
Watch What You Flush
The best thing you can do for your plumbing is to watch what gets flushed. At this point in time, the last thing you need is a clogged toilet. The stress of being in self quarantine is bad enough, you don’t need to add to that with plumbing problems. So to prevent clogged toilets, make sure you are disposing of all non toilet paper items in the trash can.
Consider Another Alternative
The bidet is making a huge comeback in the states. A bidet is widely used in other parts of the world. There are several different kinds of bidets; some come in the form of a separate plumbing fixture, some are attached to the toilet seat itself, while others are removable devices that attach to your toilet seat. The latter is the most affordable, and is pretty simple to install. And as toilet paper supplies have dwindled, you can still find bidets at many retailers. Bidets are effective, and can actually help your household become more efficient and green.
Suffering from social distancing related plumbing problems? Drain cleaning can help. Contact the drain cleaning experts at Lesco today to learn more.
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