You may have seen flushable wipes in your store or bodega and wondered if they’re worth the investment. After all, they’re marketed as a neat, convenient alternative to toilet paper. While flushable wipes may seem safe and user-friendly, they actually contribute to serious plumbing issues that you’ll want to avoid. Here are some reasons why flushable wipes are bad for plumbing.
Wipes Don’t Disintegrate
Perhaps the main reason why you should opt for traditional toilet paper is that flushable wipes don’t disintegrate once you flush them. Even as marketing agents claim these are flushable wipes, the truth is that many remain intact in your sewer system. Toilet paper typically breaks down within 24 hours of flushing, but wipes remain intact even after use. This can lead to a plethora of plumbing issues, the most notable of which are clogs, sewer pipe breakages, and fatbergs. If you prefer to use wipes over toilet paper, throw them away in a garbage can instead of in your toilet.
They Cause Blockages
With that in mind, one of the most notorious issues that plumbers claim wipes cause is blockages in your sewer system. Flushable wipes can cause issues in the septic tank that lead to sewage backup through your sinks, drains, and water fixtures. Even industrial-grade pumps risk damage. Wet wipes can overheat water pumps and require extensive repairs. Another blockage to note is that wipes lead to fatberg. Basically, a fatberg is a condition in which fat, grease, dirt, and other debris collect and clog up the pipes and drains. Whether small or large, fatbergs require extensive repairs to both residential and commercial properties.
They Can Lead To Costly Maintenance
It doesn’t matter if you’re a homeowner, landlord, or commercial property owner, the other reason why flushable wipes are bad for plumbing is that they lead to expensive repairs. Sewer system damage, fatbergs, clogs, and broken water pumps cost thousands of dollars to fix. In extreme cases, this may result in a complete septic system replacement. The best way to ensure these issues never occur is to throw away your wipes instead of flushing them. Even if you don’t notice any issues in your home or property, wipes cause issues for water treatment facilities. As a result, municipal workers work to prevent further water treatment issues that may hold taxpayers responsible.
If you notice plumbing issues in your home or business, such as clogs, sewer breaks, or septic issues, the first place to call is Harris Main and Water. We’re a sewer and water company specializing in the NYC area for municipal sewer and water repair, fire hydrant and sprinkler installation, emergency water assistance, and water main and sewer line replacement and installation. Our experienced team of technicians has all the tools, experience, and skills to do the job efficiently to avoid future issues. Call now to learn more about our services or speak to a team member to learn how we can help.
