Get matched with top plumbers in Rice, TX

While you shouldn’t increase the flow of your low-flow toilet by adjusting the water level in the toilet bowl set by the manufacturer, you can make the flow as efficient as possible by ensuring the rim jets under the rim are unobstructed. To do this, use a mirror to look under the rim and scrub them with a toothbrush or a small wire to clear any debris stuck in the holes. You can also watch for leaks, make sure the internal components are in good shape, and replace them if necessary.

The average cost to hire a plumber is typically between $45 and $200 per hour, with a common average rate around $125 per hour. This cost can vary based on your location, the plumber's experience, and the complexity of the job. Rates are often broken down by experience level: an apprentice may charge $45 to $90 an hour, a journeyman $60 to $110 an hour, and a master plumber $80 to $200 an hour. While hourly rates are standard, some plumbers may charge a flat fee for routine projects or offer project-based pricing. It's also common for plumbers to charge a minimum service or trip fee. For reference, some typical flat-rate costs for common jobs include: drain unclogging ($220), leaky faucet repair ($270), burst pipe repair ($400), toilet repair ($300), and water heater repair ($600). Note that these rates are for standard service hours; emergency, holiday, and after-hours calls will cost significantly more.

Some older homes have toilets in the basement to combat sewage backups. This type of toilet, also known as a Pittsburgh potty, acted as a safety valve over the incoming sewer line. If a line backed up, it would back up into the toilet because it was the lowest fixture in the home, keeping it out of sight and away from the finished areas of the house.

Basement toilets were also used by workers with messy jobs, like those who worked in coal mines or steel mills. This way, they could clean up and avoid tracking dirt through their home.

Yes, short hair can clog a drain. While you might be tempted to blame the long-haired people living with you for a clogged drain, hair—no matter the length—can combine with soap scum and leftover shampoo to create a perfect storm of sticky mess that can cause your drain to slow down.