Tide & Timber Blog

Why “Flushable” Products Cause Plumbing Problems Despite the label, flushable wipes, cat litter, and similar products do not break down like toilet paper. They can snag inside pipes and create serious blockages. Items You Should Never Flush Flushable wipes Cat litter Paper towels Feminine hygiene products Diapers Cotton swabs Protect Your Plumbing System The safest rule: only flush human waste and toilet paper . Everything else belongs in the trash.

Best Practices for Septic System Care Pump your septic tank every 3–5 years Spread out water usage throughout the week Use septic-safe toilet paper Keep maintenance records What Not to Put Into a Septic System Avoid flushing or draining: Grease, fats, and oils Harsh chemicals Wipes or hygiene products Food waste Warning Signs of Septic Problems Slow drains, sewage odors, pooling water, or backups may indicate septic issues. Calling a professional early can save thousands in r

Why Hose Bibs Start Dripping A dripping outdoor faucet is often caused by a loose or worn packing nut , not a failed faucet. How to Tighten the Packing Nut Turn off the faucet Locate the packing nut behind the handle Tighten it ¼ turn at a time using a wrench Test the faucet for leaks In many cases, this simple fix stops the drip immediately. When to Call a Plumbing Professional If tightening doesn’t work, internal components may need replacement. Addressing the issue early

Common Causes of a Jammed Garbage Disposal Garbage disposals often jam due to: Food scraps like bones or fibrous vegetables Utensils falling into the unit Overloading the disposal How to Un-Jam a Garbage Disposal Before starting, turn off the power to the disposal. Locate the hex slot underneath the unit Insert a ¼-inch Allen wrench Turn back and forth to free the jam Remove debris with tongs or pliers Press the reset button Restore power and test with cold water running Wh

Why You Should Avoid Chemical Drain Cleaners Chemical drain cleaners are marketed as a quick fix for slow or clogged drains, but they often cause more damage than homeowners realize. These harsh products can corrode pipes, weaken seals, and damage septic systems—especially in older homes. Over time, repeated use may lead to leaks, pipe failure, or costly plumbing repairs. A Safer Way to Clean Your Drains For minor clogs or slow drains, try this gentle alternative: Pour ½–1 cu