Understanding Your Bathroom Toilet: Types, Maintenance and Common Issues
Types of Toilets
Here are some of the most common types of toilets that you can see:
Two-Piece Toilets
Perhaps the most recognizable design, these toilets feature separate tanks and bowls bolted together, making them durable and easy to maintain. They are widely available options and that's why they are also popularly chosen by users.
One-Piece Toilets
These sleek designs combine the tank and bowl into one seamless unit for easier cleaning and modern aesthetic appeal, although they are at a slightly higher cost point.
Wall-Mounted Toilets
When minimalism is important, wall-mounted toilets may be your perfect solution. Their tank is concealed within the wall, leaving only their bowl visible. Although they are stylish, these require additional installation work and access for maintenance.
Dual Flush Toilets
Dual flush toilets require no special access as their tank remains visible. These toilets offer consumers an eco-friendly option that saves a considerable amount of water over time.
Each type has their own set of advantages. Ultimately though it all boils down to your personal preference, budget, and bathroom layout, which you need to take into account when making this decision.
Signs of a Leaky Toilet
Most homeowners only become aware of a leaky toilet after their water bills skyrocket or mysterious puddles appear on the bathroom floor. But you should keep an eye for these signs:
Unexplained Water on the Floor
If there is a constant puddle at the base of your toilet, this could indicate either an issue with its wax seal or an unstable bowl.
Constant Running Sound
Toilets that sound as though they are always filling may have worn-out flappers or fill valve issues that require attention in order to work correctly. This wastes water while being annoying to listen to.
A Drop in Water Level
Should your bowl water levels suddenly drop without an explanation, this could indicate a silent leak in either the trap or drain system.
Higher Water Bills
A sudden increase in your water bill might also be an indicator that something's wrong with your toilet and you should investigate as soon as possible.
Early leak detection with a plumbing leak detection system can save you hundreds of dollars in wasted water costs. It is important that you monitor your water bill closely, and address any unexpected increases with the help of professional plumbers immediately.
Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Toilet Running Right
Toilet maintenance isn't complicated. Just some attention from you goes a long way toward keeping it in top shape.
Clean regularly using non-abrasive cleaners in order to reduce scratches that can harbor germs, and stay on top of repairs as soon as they become necessary.
Periodically inspect the flushing mechanism to assess the wear and tear.
Make sure that no foreign objects such as wipes, cotton swabs or anything unsuitable for your plumbing systems are flushed down the toilet. It's not intended to be used as a garbage can.
Periodically inspect the components in your tank. If a flapper appears warped or brittle, replace it immediately to avoid leaks and save money on costly repairs or replacements.
Maintaining your toilet routinely helps it run trouble-free, flush after flush while saving you on costly repairs or replacements down the line.
Conclusion
Your toilet may not be the focal point of your bathroom, but it certainly serves an amazing function. Understanding its different types, recognizing signs of leakage and performing regular maintenance are all important things to increasing its life while saving you on water and money. Though taking good care of it may not seem glamorous, having a good loo means one less stressor in daily life.
