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Fixing a Toilet Leak With the 3 “R’s”: Remove, Replace and Reinstall

It has happened to us all. You walk into the bathroom and around the base of the toilet and you see water on the floor. For sure, one thing you know upon sight, “this is not good. There are a few possibilities, but the most probable is there is a leak. In this, the first of two posts on dealing with leaks, we will coach you on how to deal with this type of situation. More importantly, we will take you through a few methods for Fixing a Toilet Leak.

Always Check the “Nuts and Bolts” when Fixing a Toilet Leak

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Always check the nuts and bolts to see if anything loose could be the cause of a leak.

So, let’s say we have identified that we do have a leak. While it may at first seem reason to panic, it really does not need to be. Simply follow along and you will be Fixing a Toilet Leak in no time!

All right then, time to pinpoint our problem by exact location. To begin, check the plastic caps that are around the base of your toilet. The purpose these serve are to cover up the bolts holding your toilet in place. If you notice upon removing the caps that any of these bolts are broken, this can lead to the toilet’s seal following suit.
If this is your issue, we can get moving on Fixing a Toilet Leak in fairly simple fashion. You must reposition the toilet, making sure to re-center and level it. Then tighten each of the bots as securely as you can. This will do one of two things. First, it will tighten back into place correctly and you will be leak free. If a bolt or bolts however will not tighten, it’s time to pick up a replacement set and then move forward in Fixing a Toilet Leak.

Fixing a Toilet Leak: That Sure Has a Nice “Ring” to It!

Ok, so we have identified that the bolts are in need of a replacement somewhere. Since the toilet is leaking at its base, this also means you need to replace the units wax ring more than likely. Thus, we will start Fixing a Toilet Leak and the ring will be our initial point of repair.
This is where the actual order of events in Fixing a Toilet Leak begins. Follow the bullet-pointed steps below in order to return to a dry floor around the toilet and say goodbye to your leak.

Steps in in Making the Fix

  • Head to the Store At the store, you want to purchase a new wax ring. Before heading to pick this up, take a photo of your toilet’s base. This way, you can show a professional at the store your model and issue. Then, they can better assist you in picking out a replacement that will do the job of Fixing a Toilet Leak.
  • Prepare Your Toilet Ok, time to get “prepping.” Start this process by shutting the water valve on your toilet off. Then to remove all remaining water, give the unit a flush. Any water then that will remain, you can remove by unscrewing the nut that holds the valve in place. Have a bucket ready when you do this to catch the water. The final part in this step of Fixing a Toilet Leak is to plunge the toilet for a few seconds. This makes sure there is no leftover water at the base.
  • Remove the Toilet & Old Wax Ring Unscrew the water supply line from the toilet and remove the tee bolts from the floor. The toilet should now be ready to be lifted and removed from its usual placement. Set the toilet gently down on its side and begin removing the old wax ring. Make sure you remove any dried-on wax and leftover residue before installing the new wax ring.
  • Replace Your Wax Ring Now, you want to take the new ring you bought, and it’s time to start Fixing a Toilet Leak. Place the wax ring over the flange, first, making sure all T-Bolts are in place and secure. After doing this, reposition your toilet in its usual area of placement.
  • You’ve Removed and Replaced, It’s Time to Reinstall See, this hasn’t been so hard now has it? To begin reinstalling your toilet double-check the unit’s positioning. To do this, use your body weight to push the toilet into the new wax ring. This creates a seal that will prevent form any more leaks in the immediate future. Once you create this seal, it’s on to our last step in Fixing a Toilet Leak. This entails screwing all of the bolts in place. Be sure they are tight, but not overtightened. Once sure all is tight and sealed, reconnect the waterline. Then, flush the unit and we can see how well we did in our attempt at Fixing a Toilet Leak.

Why are We Fixing a Toilet Leak?

Well, this seems an obvious question, but it for sure is one that should be fully explained. Without Fixing a Toilet Leak, you could see mold start growing. Not to mention the skyrocketing water bill that could accumulate if the unit isn’t repaired. If you are not comfortable Fixing a Toilet Leak yourself, you can always call the Raleigh professional plumbers at Poole’s Plumbing and they can take care of their needs.
A toilet leak can cause mold to grow and water bills to increase, so any leak should be addressed immediately. If you want your repairs to be done as perfect as possible, make sure you call your local plumber to make the repair for you.
This concludes this entry which is one of a two-part series on clogging or unclogging drains. In our next post, we will cover the causes of a leaky faucet. Until then, to contact the Most Trusted Name in Raleigh Plumbers, Poole’s Plumbing, visit poolesplumbing.com.
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To Plunge or Not to Plunge??? Uncovering the Myths Behind Liquid Drain Cleaners

Everybody that owns or rents a home for an extended length of time is bound to face plumbing issues at some point. Surprisingly, some of the more common ones are where some serious and costly mistakes get made. Some of these mistakes can be attributed to being misled by a non- professional opinion that found in online searches. However, even long before every person behind a keyboard turned into a “certified expert,” one common mistake made was still; pretty consistent and confusing. This was whether or not one should use Liquid Drain Cleaners to unplug a clog.

Before we tackle the “myths” or “legend” behind the usage of Liquid Drain Cleaner, let’s be sure everyone knows what it is. One of the aforementioned “common” plumbing issues is a clogged drain. In this situation, as with any plumbing issue, most people will look for a way to fix the problem initially on their own if possible. Thus, given the many “name brand” and well-known Liquid Drain Cleaners would appear an obvious choice to turn to before picking up the phone to call in a pro. As we will now explore, however, this method can actually in many cases cause further damage to your pipes and even your health.

“I Saw the Commercial, Liquid Drain Cleaners Must be Safe for the Pipes, right?!”

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There are many ways to clear a drain through without the use of dangerous chemical cleaners.

To start with we will take a look at the effect that Liquid Drain Cleaners can have on your plumbing system. More specifically, let’s discuss the potential damage that can be done to your pipes by Liquid Drain Cleaners. To look at this, first, we must explain how these types of products work.

Liquid Drain Cleaners, many times because of having hydrochloric acid as an ingredient, creates a chemical reaction inside your drainpipe. These reactions generate heat many thinks can clear a clog, and in some cases can. On the contrary, this heat that is supposed to “pop the drain clean” can often time cause irreversible damage to the pipes.
Where the damage can almost certainly happen to your pipes when Liquid Drain Cleaner is used is when it is not fully able to clear the clog. Thus, the chemicals sit atop the clog and are concentrated on just one small area of your pipe. In the case of plastic plumbing, the Liquid Drain Cleaners will melt and deform the pipe. While metal piping may be stronger initially, the heat will eventually weaken this too. Once weakened the metal can crack and leaks are then inevitable.

They Sell it Over the Counter, Can It Really be Harmful to My Health?

YES. To repeat, if this is a question you have, them YES is the answer. Just think if the chemicals in Liquid Drain Cleaners can do that to your pipes, what happens if you breathe it in? What happens when it gets on your skin or in your eyes? As you can imagine, these are not the only ways you  can be hurt by Liquid Drain Cleaners.
Now, of course, not all Liquid Drain Cleaners are made exactly the same. But it is pretty universal that to some extent all are harmful if ingested or in any way came in contact with. Sure, safety goggles and gloves can protect you. In a case that you “must” use these chemicals. (Does that situation exist?) However, if it does get on your skin it can cause serious burns. Likewise, Liquid Drain Cleaners in your eyes may result in serious burning and damage.

But can’t I Save Money Using Liquid Drain Cleaners?

In case you have not noticed a developing pattern here, it is safe to say the negatives of Liquid Drain Cleaners far outweigh the positives. Could there be a savings, money wise if the product does work? Sure, it is possible if the clog in your drain is a simple hairball or some grease buildup. Outside of those two issues however, it is unlikely the chemicals will even work.
In addition, by calling a professional plumber, they can actually analyze the problem. This avoids any guessing and blindly dumping harmful chemicals down the drain. You can be certain if there is a crack the pros will find it. In some instances the problem is deep in your drainage system. This would make  purchasing  Liquid Drain Cleaners  a complete waste of money.

Pop it Free the Old-Fashioned Way: Call on the Plunger!

Personally, if I notice a clog, the first thing I go to is the plunger. Just use proper plunging technique, and you may be able to pop the drain free. Even if you are unable to with this method, there is no harm in trying to plunge the drain open.
In the same vein as using a plunger, you may want to try a plumbing snake. There are many easy to use versions. Some will connect right to any electrical drill. While you won’t get the power of a snake like the pros would use, this still could avoid you making a call.
The Raleigh professional plumbers at Poole’s Plumbing have become the most trusted name in the Triangle area. A large factor in gaining such a reputation has been their willingness to talk to and help the customer. If you have any question on a clogged drain, or anything else you may feel constitutes a plumber, contract us at poolesplumbing.com.
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Toilet Paper Alternatives and More: What is Safe to Flush?

Toilet Paper. Two words that given the recent situation our entire country and the world, for that matter, have been faced with have maybe never received so much attention. For reasons unbeknownst to this writer, the general public upon hearing of the spread of a dangerous and potentially deadly virus sought out toilet paper. That’s actually putting it mildly. Toilet Paper Alternatives. Three words that we’d never think would have as much relativity as they recently have. Basically, our entire country went mad, racing to stores and hoarding as much “bathroom tissue” as they could carry to a cash register. To analyze the psyche and overall rationale of his reaction thankfully is not my job. However, by people stockpiling toilet paper it became and still is next to impossible without planning ahead to find the product in the store. This would create the need for the American public to seek Toilet Paper Alternatives.

What is a “Safe Flush???”

 
(You couldn’t make this stuff up…and you all know that if we weren’t currently living through it, the paragraph above would read as some type of joke or nonsense…but since it is our current reality, I digress… let’s move on…) So, back to our Toilet Paper Alternatives. We know there is a lot of uncertainty and reluctance when it comes to things we flush. In this article, we will take a closer look at whether these Toilet Paper Alternatives are safe to flush. Likewise, we will also take the time to educate you on items that you might possibly feel are a “safe flush.” We will explain some of these items can lead to a clog or blockage. A clog or blockage from Toilet Paper Alternatives could eventually “snowball” into your needing expensive and extensive plumbing repairs.
The Truth, the Whole Truth, and Nothing But the Truth about Flushable Wipes
 
So, what’s in a name, right? Flushable wipes…seems to be a no-brainer, may as well just overfill the shopping cart with these Toilet Paper Alternatives right now, right? Actually, wrong. While these wipes may come in handy when potty training a child or on a camping trip, it is a bad idea to flush these down your toilet.
 
To be clear on this, again, flushable wipes are useful in many situations as Toilet Paper Alternatives, but you don’t want them in your plumbing system. Yes, eventually these wipes will break down, but nowhere near as fast as regular toilet paper would. More likely than not, the continued and frequent usage of these type wipes will lead to a clog, which in turn will lead to an expensive fix for you.
 
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Items such as bathroom wipes are not safe to put into your toilet for flushing.

The Garbage Can is for Garbage, a Toilet is Not (Chalk Up Another Headline that This Guy Never Thought Would Need Public Explaining to Functioning Adults )

 
So, we have now established that “flushable wipes” are not safe to flush into your system. “There’s got to be something I can use,” you must be thinking in regard to Toilet Paper Alternatives as images of barren and empty grocery store shelves dance in your head. Unfortunately, in case you skimmed over the sub headline above this paragraph, there are no safe Toilet Paper Alternatives. Neither toilets nor your plumbing system is made to have anything flushed down them with the exception of human waste, water, and the ever-elusive toilet paper.
 
Due to the emptiness of toilet paper aisles, we want to help so you know what Toilet Paper Alternatives are safe. Thus below is a list of items the should NOT be flushed down your toilet. As tempting as it may seem (?!?!), very clearly stated none of these items should be flushed:
 
  • Facial Tissues
  • Baby Wipes, Disinfectant Wipes, etc.
  • Toilet Bowl Scrub Pads
  • Napkins and Paper Towel
  • Dental Floss
  • Eggshells or Nutshells
  • Coffee Grounds
  • Oils and Greases
  • Hair
  • Sanitary Napkins, Tampons, Condoms, etc.
  • Cotton Balls or Q-Tips
  • Any Plastic at all
  • Diapers
  • Vitamins, Medi, or Pharmaceuticals
So, What Should I Do if I am “All Out”?
 
Basically, you can’t flush anything but toilet paper down your toilet without eventually it leading to a clog. Even the thicker style of toilet paper tends to build up and leads to a clog. This is yet anpother reason to be sure of your choice of Toilet Paper Alternatives.
 
So, if you are without toilet paper, we do have a couple suggestions. First,  inquired you=r grocery store about what time they get deliveries in and then be there that day when the store is restocking. This is one way  to be sure and replenish your supply. One other way around flushing at all would be available to anyone who has clean water. That alternative would be either having a bidet installed or using another alternative cleaning method, the “peri” bottle.
 
To explain, a bidet is a fixture that usually has spigots in which clean water comes through and cleans you. Likewise, a perineal irrigation bottle or peri-bottle can serve that same purpose. The peri-bottle provides and easy thorough cleaning and keeps you from flushing any Toilet Paper Alternatives down the drain.

In the End, If You Aren’t Sure….Don’t Flush Toilet Paper Alternatives

 
Ok, so given the topic, we gave a slightly sarcastic approach here in a few brief spots. However, here at Poole’s Plumbing, we realize that through these uncertain times there really was a big issuefinding toilet paper. This is why we wanted to remind you to not put things down your toilet that will lead to clogging. Consequently,  even Toilet Paper Alternatives appearing to be safe for flushing, can end up being anything but funny. It could even prove quinsy and costly. To conclude, we sincerely wish you all the best in your ongoing pursuit of toilet paper and for any of your home plumbing needs, check us out at poolesplumbing.com.