Preventing toilet clogs involves adopting good habits and practices to ensure that only appropriate materials are flushed down the toilet. Here are some tips to help you prevent toilet clogs:

1. Use Toilet Paper Wisely:
   • Use a reasonable amount of toilet paper per flush. Avoid excessive use of toilet paper, as large wads can contribute to clogs.
2. Flush Only Toilet-Friendly Items:
   • The only items that should be flushed down the toilet are human waste and toilet paper. Avoid flushing items like paper towels, facial tissues, baby wipes, and sanitary products, as they can lead to clogs.
3. Dispose of Non-Flushable Items Properly:
   • Throw non-flushable items, such as dental floss, cotton swabs, and hygiene products, into the trash bin instead of flushing them.
4. Educate Household Members:
   • Make sure everyone in your household understands what can and cannot be flushed down the toilet. Educate children about proper toilet use to prevent accidental flushing of inappropriate items.
5. Install a Trash Bin in the Bathroom:
   • Place a trash bin in the bathroom for disposing of items that should not be flushed. This provides a convenient alternative to flushing non-toilet-friendly items.
6. Regular Maintenance:
   • Conduct regular maintenance by using a plunger or auger at the first sign of a slow drain. Prompt action can prevent minor clogs from escalating into more significant issues.
7. Consider a Low-Flow Toilet:
   • If you have an older toilet, consider upgrading to a low-flow or high-efficiency toilet. These toilets use less water per flush and may be less prone to clogs.
8. Install a Toilet Paper Holder:
   • Use a toilet paper holder to dispense toilet paper, preventing excessive use and reducing the likelihood of accidental drops into the bowl.
9. Avoid Using Harsh Chemicals:
   • Avoid using harsh chemical drain cleaners as a preventive measure. These chemicals can damage pipes and may not be effective in preventing clogs caused by non-dissolvable items.
10. Regular Plumbing Inspections:
    • Schedule regular plumbing inspections, especially if you have an older plumbing system. A professional plumber can identify potential issues and address them before they lead to clogs.
11. Consider a Bidet Attachment:
    • Bidet attachments can reduce the reliance on toilet paper and may contribute to a cleaner and more efficient flushing process.

Remember that toilets are designed to handle human waste and toilet paper. Anything beyond that should be disposed of in the trash. By adopting these practices, you can minimize the risk of toilet clogs and maintain the proper functioning of your plumbing system.

A toilet that is constantly running can be both annoying and wasteful. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to troubleshoot and address this issue. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do if your toilet is constantly running:

1. Check the Flush Handle:

   • Ensure that the flush handle is not sticking or getting caught on the toilet tank. If it is, adjust or replace the handle as needed.

2. Inspect the Flapper:

   • Lift the toilet tank lid and inspect the flapper. The flapper is a rubber or plastic valve that controls the flow of water from the tank to the bowl during a flush. If it’s damaged, worn, or doesn’t seal properly, it can cause the toilet to run continuously.

   • If the flapper is not sealing correctly, try cleaning it. If that doesn’t resolve the issue, consider replacing the flapper with a compatible replacement.

3. Adjust the Water Level:

   • Check the water level in the tank. It should be about half an inch below the overflow tube. If the water level is too high, it can result in constant running. Adjust the water level using the water level adjustment float or valve.

4. Inspect the Float:

   • The float is a buoyant device that regulates the water level in the tank. If the float is damaged or set too high, it can cause continuous running. Adjust the float to the appropriate level, ensuring it doesn’t obstruct the closing of the flapper.

5. Check for a Leak:

   • Add a few drops of food coloring to the toilet tank. Wait for a few minutes without flushing. If the colored water appears in the bowl, there’s a leak in the flapper, flush valve, or overflow tube. Identify and address the source of the leak.

6. Clean or Replace the Fill Valve:

   • The fill valve controls the water level in the tank. If it’s dirty or malfunctioning, it can cause continuous running. Try cleaning the fill valve, and if that doesn’t work, consider replacing it.

7. Inspect the Overflow Tube:

   • Ensure that the overflow tube is not damaged or cracked. A damaged overflow tube can lead to water continuously flowing into the bowl. Replace the overflow tube if necessary.

8. Check the Chain:

   • If your toilet has a chain connecting the flush lever to the flapper, ensure that it has proper slack. If it’s too tight, it may prevent the flapper from closing properly. Adjust the chain length as needed.

9. Replace the Flapper or Fill Valve:

   • If you’ve tried the above steps and the problem persists, consider replacing the flapper or fill valve. Over time, these components can wear out and may need to be replaced.

If you’re not comfortable or familiar with these troubleshooting steps, or if the issue persists after trying these solutions, it’s advisable to consult with a professional plumber for a more in-depth assessment and repair.