We understand that convenience is a major factor in the products you buy for your family. You see a package that says “flushable” and assume it is safe for your toilet. However, why flushable wipes are the biggest lie in modern plumbing is a costly lesson for many. These wipes do not break down like toilet paper once they hit the water. Instead, they stay whole and create massive blockages deep inside your underground sewer pipes. We provide Residential Drain Cleaning Calgary to fix the damage caused by these products.
The Difference Between Toilet Paper and Synthetic Wipes
Toilet paper is designed to dissolve into tiny fibers within seconds of being flushed. This allows it to move through the curves of your plumbing without catching on anything. In contrast, most wipes are made of synthetic materials that are very strong and durable. Even the “biodegradable” ones take many months or even years to break down in water. Consequently, they act like a net that catches every other piece of waste in the line. We enjoy explaining the science of waste management to help you protect your pipes.
When multiple wipes get tangled together, they form a “rag ball” that stops all water flow. These balls can grow large enough to block the main six-inch sewer line leaving your house. We often find these giant clogs using our specialized high-definition cameras during service calls. Our camera inspection services allow us to show you exactly what is causing the backup. We want to help you avoid the expensive repairs that come from flushing the wrong items. Our team prioritizes honesty and clear communication with every homeowner we help.
How Wipes Damage Your Home Sump Pump
If you have a basement bathroom, your waste might go through a grinder pump. These pumps have small spinning blades that are not meant to cut through tough cloth wipes. The fabric from the wipes can wrap around the motor and cause it to seize up. Because the motor cannot spin, the pump burns out and leads to a nasty basement flood. We recommend only flushing the “three Ps”: pee, poo, and toilet paper in your home. This simple rule saves your expensive pumps and keeps your system running smoothly.
We also find that wipes can get caught on old cast iron pipes that have rough interiors. The wipes snag on the rust and start a clog that grows every time you use the toilet. We suggest throwing all wipes, even the “flushable” ones, into a trash bin instead. This small change in your habits prevents the majority of emergency sewer backups we see. Our professional technicians stay ready to clear these tough rag clogs from your home’s main lines. We take pride in restoring your plumbing to its best condition after a blockage.
Protecting the City Infrastructure and Environment
Wipes do not just cause problems in your home; they affect the whole city of Calgary. They combine with grease in the main sewer lines to create “fatbergs” that block entire streets. The city spends millions of dollars every year to remove these clogs from the public treatment plants. Moreover, wipes that make it through the system can end up polluting our beautiful local rivers. We believe in protecting our environment by being careful about what goes down our drains. Our team remains dedicated to providing sustainable and responsible plumbing solutions for everyone.
If your toilet is backing up or running slowly, please Contact Us. We can clear the wipes from your line and get your system flowing perfectly again. We look forward to helping you maintain a healthy and functional home for your family. Let us handle the messy repairs so you can enjoy your day. Our team stays ready to provide the expert help you deserve.
FAQ
If it says flushable, why does it clog my pipes?
The word “flushable” only means it will clear the toilet bowl, not the whole pipe system. It does not mean the item will dissolve like toilet paper does.
Can I flush facial tissues or paper towels?
No, these items are also designed to stay strong when wet and will cause clogs. Only toilet paper is safe for your home’s plumbing system.
How do I know if I have a main line clog?
If multiple drains in your house are backing up at once, the problem is likely in the main line. You should stop using water and call a professional right away.