Flushable wipes have become a popular household product because of their convenience and the extra cleanliness they provide. However, many homeowners assume that just because a product is labeled as flushable, it is automatically safe for the plumbing system.

Though these flushable wipes seemingly go down the toilet when flushed, they build up and block the inside of pipes over time. Repeatedly flushing wipes can contribute to issues like clogged drains, sewer line problems, and costly plumbing repairs. Understanding how flushable wipes affect your plumbing can help you protect your home’s plumbing system.

What Flushable Actually Means

The term flushable can be misleading. It doesn’t necessarily mean that a product is safe for your plumbing system. Unlike toilet paper that is specifically designed to break down quickly in water, many flushable wipes are made to stay strong and intact, even after they’re flushed.

There is actually no universal standard that guarantees that flushable wipe products will safely pass through your pipes without causing issues. While the flushable wipes may disappear down the toilet, they often don’t break apart the way they should. This can lead to problems further along in your plumbing or sewer system. Understanding what flushable really means is the first step in preventing costly clogs and damage.

Flushable Wipes vs. Toilet Paper

The real difference between flushable wipes and toilet paper comes down to how they are made. Toilet paper is made from lightweight paper fibers that are made to weaken and disperse almost immediately after being submerged in water. This allows it to flow smoothly through plumbing systems, municipal sewer lines, and septic tanks without lingering. 

Flushable wipes, however, are made with stronger, often synthetic fibers that are intended to maintain their structure even when wet. This added durability makes them effective for cleaning but not so much for plumbing. Instead of breaking apart in your pipes, they remain intact, increasing the likelihood of them catching on rough pipe surfaces, bends, or existing buildup.

Over time, these flushable wipes accumulate and create dense blockages that are extremely difficult to remove. In some cases, they can contribute to larger obstructions in sewer lines and septic systems. Even though they are labeled as flushable, they do pose a risk to your plumbing system.

Clogs and Blockages

Though clogs caused by flushable wipes often start small, with constant use and flushing, they can become a larger plumbing issue. Because flushable wipes stay intact, they can become easily caught in the plumbing system. As more wipes continue to be flushed and accumulate, they can create dense blockages that restrict water flow, leading to recurring clogs.

Homeowners may notice warning signs like slow drainage, gurgling sounds, frequent toilet backups, or water levels rising higher than normal after flushing. These blockages can occur within household pipes, main sewer lines, or septic systems, making them more difficult to remove than typical toilet paper clogs. When buildups become severe, professional drain cleaning may be needed to fully clear the obstruction and prevent future plumbing problems.

Long-Term Pipe Damage

While flushing a flushable wipe once doesn’t seem like a major concern, regularly flushing wipes can contribute to long-term plumbing problems. Over time, wipes collect inside pipes and sewer lines, increasing the risk of recurring blockages and restricted water flow. These buildup issues can put additional stress on your plumbing system, leading to backups, slow drains, or more serious sewer line problems. 

Older plumbing systems are especially vulnerable to repeated clogs and excess strain caused by materials that don’t break down easily. Addressing these issues early with professional plumbers can help prevent more expensive repairs and extend the life of your plumbing system.

Safer Alternatives

The best way to protect your plumbing system from flushable wipe-related issues is to avoid flushing them altogether. Even though products are labeled as flushable, they can still create problems. Instead, wipes should be disposed of in the trash, while only toilet paper should be flushed. Homeowners can also protect their plumbing system by avoiding flushing other non-degradable items, such as paper towels, tissues, and cotton feminine products.

For those who prefer the convenience of wipes, alternatives like bidet attachments or a bidet toilet seat could provide a similar outcome without putting extra strain on your pipes. If you are noticing frequent clogs, slow drains, or plumbing backups, contacting a professional plumber for drain cleaning or an inspection can help address the problem before it leads to more serious damage.

Why Choose Us?

With more than 25 years of experience, S&B Plumbing provides reliable plumbing solutions that will keep your home’s plumbing working properly. From stubborn clogs to sewer line issues, our team of professionals has the knowledge and tools needed to diagnose problems and provide effective solutions. Contact us today for more information or to schedule your service.

With Summer finally here, your outdoor faucet is going to start getting a lot more use. Use from your hose, slip-n-slides, pressure washing adapters, and a lot more. It can be frustrating when you finally need your outdoor faucet, and it isn’t working. After a long winter, your outdoor faucet will probably need some help to get up and working again. If you’re unsure how to deal with the problems your outdoor faucet is having, here are some of the most common issues outdoor faucets face and how you can fix them.

1. Leaking Outdoor Faucet

If your outdoor faucet is leaking, it’s usually because of a worn-out rubber washer. The rubber washer is what creates a watertight seal when the faucet is closed. Those can degrade with time, allowing water to seep through. Luckily, this is an easy fix. You can buy a rubber washer at your local hardware store and quickly replace it.

However, there are other reasons your outdoor faucet could be leaking. Utah winters are harsh and cold, especially on your pipes. If replacing the rubber washer doesn’t do the trick, that’s a sign that you have a cracked internal pipe from winter freezing. If you feel that that is the case, there is likely some water damage hiding behind your walls. Call a professional plumber to assess the damage and to repair the damaged section of pipe. 

2. Low Water Pressure

There is a wide range of reasons why your outdoor faucet is having a low water pressure issue, though there’s one common cause, especially in Utah. Some could require a quick fix or require the help of a professional plumber. 

Utah is notorious for its hard water. Over time, the minerals in this hard water can build up inside your outdoor faucet, resulting in a restriction of water flow, reducing overall water pressure. You can tell that this is the issue if there is white or chalky residue on the faucet. If the hard water hasn’t caused damage elsewhere in your home, you can fix the problem by filling a bag or other container with white vinegar and soaking the faucet in the vinegar. Over the course of a couple of hours, the vinegar will dissolve the mineral deposits in the outdoor faucet without damaging the plumbing. 

If the vinegar soak doesn’t fix the problem, the buildup is likely deeper in the pipes. In that case, a professional plumber may need to come and clean out the mineral buildup in the pipes. 

3. Frozen or Cracked Outdoor Faucet

Over the Winter, when temperatures drop below freezing, water that is trapped inside the outdoor faucet or pipe begins to freeze. As it freezes, the pipe expands, creating intense pressure inside the pipe. This pressure causes a lot of different issues, from small cracks to full pipe splits that cause internal damage you can’t see.

If the issue appears to be just with the body of the faucet, the fix could be fairly straightforward. However, many times there is an issue that requires the help of a professional plumber. In order to fix a deeper problem with a frozen or cracked outdoor faucet, the plumber may have to cut into a wall to replace the damaged pipes.

If you haven’t faced this problem but are worried it might, there are a few preventative things you can do. Make sure to disconnect hoses before winter, drain any remaining water from the line, and install a freeze-resistant outdoor faucet.

4. Outdoor Faucet Won’t Turn On or Is Stuck

If you go to use your outdoor faucet and it just won’t turn on or the handle is stuck, you’re likely dealing with buildup, corrosion, or internal damage. 

Not only can hard water problems cause low water pressure, it can also restrict the movement of internal parts and can get gradually worse over time. Outdoor faucets are also constantly exposed to the elements, which can cause rust around the handle and corrosion inside the valve.

It’s best to start with some lower-risk solutions to the problems before you break out the toolbox. First, attempt to slowly move the handle back and forth, applying steady, light pressure. If it still isn’t budging, do not force it because it can snap the valve or even break a pipe. You can also try spraying a lubricant like WD-40 around the handle and the stem. Let that sit for five to ten minutes before gently trying to turn the handle. Lastly, you can try using a wrench to adjust the packing nut that’s just behind the handle. This can sometimes relieve pressure on the stem.

If after you’ve done everything you can and the issue still hasn’t resolved, call a professional plumber. They have the expertise to deconstruct the outdoor faucet and fix it as needed.

Why Choose Us?

At S&B Plumbing, we understand how frustrating it can be to have an outdoor faucet be unusable. Especially during the summer months when they’re heavily used. As the top plumbers in Ogden, with over 25 years of experience, you can expect fast and effective results that will allow you to get back to all of your fun summer outdoor activities. Contact us today to schedule your service.

Water damage is one of the most stressful, costly, and complicated problems homeowners can face. Whether caused by heavy rain, rapid snowmelt, or rising groundwater, excess moisture can quickly turn your basement into a liability. Fortunately, by installing a sump pump, you can protect your home from flooding and water damage and give yourself peace of mind.

What Is a Sump Pump?

A sump pump is a simple but powerful device installed in the lowest part of your basement or crawl space. It typically sits inside a specially constructed pit called a sump basin, which is two or three feet deep. Its primary job is to collect and remove excess water before it accumulates and causes damage.

When water enters the sump pit, either from drains or natural groundwater,  it triggers a float switch. The pump then activates and directs the water away from your home through a discharge pipe, keeping your basement dry. 

How Does a Sump Pump Work?

Sump pumps are designed to operate automatically, which makes them highly effective and reliable during storms or when you’re away from home. 

Here’s a breakdown of the process:

Water flows into the sump basin from the surrounding soil or drainage systems, and the float switch rises as the water level increases. Once the water reaches a certain height, the pump turns on and directs water safely away from your home’s foundation, often into your yard or a storm drain. The pump shuts off when the water level drops. 

Sump pumps also have a check valve on the discharge pipe, which prevents water from flowing back into the pit once the pump turns off. 

This cycle can repeat as often as needed, especially during heavy rainfall or thawing seasons. 

Types of Sump Pumps 

There are two main types of sump pumps commonly used in residential settings:

Submersible Sump Pumps — These pumps sit inside the sump basin and are designed to operate underwater. They tend to be quieter, more efficient, and less likely to overheat, making them a popular choice for finished basements. 

Pedestal Sump Pumps — With this design, the motor sits on a pedestal above the basin while the pump extends into the water. This system is typically more affordable and easier to service, but it can be noisier and more visible. 

Why Might You Need a Sump Pump?

Not every home requires a sump pump, but many benefit from having one, especially in areas prone to moisture. Here are some common reasons to consider installing one:

Frequent Basement Flooding — If your basement has flooded before, it’s likely to happen again. A sump pump provides ongoing protection. 

Heavy Rainfall or Snowmelt — Homes in regions with significant precipitation or seasonal thawing have a higher risk of water intrusion. 

High Water Table — If you live in an area where the ground is consistently saturated with water, moisture can seep into your basement without warning. 

Poor Drainage Around Your Home — Improper grading, clogged gutters, or inadequate drainage systems can direct water toward your foundation. 

Low-Lying Property — If your home sits at the bottom of a hill or in an area with poor drainage, it is more prone to water accumulation. 

Finished Basements — If you’ve invested in flooring, drywall, or furniture in your basement, a sump pump helps protect that investment. 

Even if you’ve never experienced major flooding, you may need a sump pump if you smell damp or musty odors in your basement, see visible water stains on walls or floors, notice peeling paint or warped paneling, or expereience standing water after heavy rain. 

Additional Benefits of a Sump Pump

Beyond preventing flooding, sump pumps can reduce mold and mildew growth by keeping moisture levels low, protect your foundation from water-related weakening or cracks, improve air quality and reduce musty odors by minimizing damp conditions, and increase property value by adding a layer of protection. 

Do You Need a Backup System?

A standard sump pump relies on electricity, which can be a problem during severe storms when you need it most. For extra reassurance, many homeowners invest in a battery-powered backup pump or water-powered backup system. This keeps everything working, even during power outages. 

Protect Your Home From Excess Moisture

A sump pump is a small investment that can prevent major headaches. If your home is vulnerable to water intrusion, installing one can save you thousands of dollars in repairs and give you peace of mind during storm season. 

If you’re unsure whether your home needs a sump pump, a professional inspection can help assess your risk and recommend the best solution for your specific situation.