This is a common question in any household. What can you flush down the toilet? What can’t be flushed? Are the “flush rules” mere rumors? No – believe it or not, there are rules when it comes to flushing things down the toilet. Air Tech of Houston AC & Plumbing is here with the answers you’ve been looking for.
Flushable Waste
When it comes to flushing waste down the toilet, many people believe anything that qualifies as “waste” also qualifies as “flushable.” Unfortunately, this is false.
There are only three things that should be flushed down your toilet, and you can remember this with the rule of the three P’s: pee, poo and (toilet) paper. These are the only three things that should be flushed down your toilets to avoid clogged pipes.
Unflushable Waste Can Lead To Clogged Toilets Or Clogged Pipes
Flushing waste down the toilet that is not flushable can clog your own pipes and also block pipes in your city’s sewer system. This is because the waste does not break apart as efficiently as human waste or toilet paper.
A common misconception is “flushable” wipes. Believe it or not, these should not be flushed! Whether they are cleaning wipes or baby wipes that are marketed as “flushable,” they can still clog pipes and cause many plumbing problems.
There are many other materials that are believed to be flushable. These should not be flushed! These materials include (but are not limited to):
- Facial tissue or paper towels
- Feminine hygiene products
- Q-tips
- Hair
- Pet waste (including “flushable” cat litter)
- Medication
Keep Your Plumbing Clean
Flushing non-flushable materials down the toilet can cause a lot of issues. Just because the waste swirls around in the toilet bowl and disappears from sight does not mean it disappears.
It is a good idea to be cautious about what you are flushing down the toilet because it keeps your pipes from clogging up. “Flushable” wipes are one of the biggest culprits of clogged pipes!
It is important to keep your drains and pipes free of debris so that they can keep working efficiently and effectively. A clogged toilet will cause issues, and blocked pipes in the city’s sewage system can cause even larger problems — affecting commodes throughout your neighborhood.
The Benefits Of Having A Professional Plumbing Team
A professional plumbing team is always a great help to have, especially when it comes to questions about materials you can flush down a toilet. And, if your pipes do clog up because you didn’t know about the “three P’s” rule, our plumbing team is happy to help.
If you’re struggling with a temperamental toilet or drain blockage, feel free to call Air Tech of Houston AC & Plumbing. We’re here to keep your pipes running like new!