We all know the feeling of dread that comes with a clogged toilet the anxiety of wondering if it will toilet overflow, the frustration of trying to plunge it, and the embarrassment of having to call a plumber. But have you ever stopped to think about why your toilet keeps clogging in the first place? While there are many potential causes, understanding the most common culprits can help you prevent future clogs and save yourself some headaches. From flushing the wrong things down the toilet to underlying plumbing issues, here are five reasons your toilet might be clogging and what you can do to avoid them.
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5 Reasons Your Toilet Keeps Clogging
A clogged toilet can be a major inconvenience and source of frustration for homeowners. Not only can it be unpleasant to deal with, but it can also lead to costly repairs if left unresolved. If you find yourself dealing with a clogged toilet on a regular basis, it’s essential to identify the root cause to prevent future clogs and avoid unnecessary expenses. Here are five common reasons your toilet keeps clogging:
1. Flushing Non-Flushable Items
One of the most common reasons for toilet clogs is flushing non-flushable items down the toilet. Items like feminine hygiene products, paper towels, baby wipes, and cotton balls can’t break down in the water and can quickly create a blockage in the pipes. These items should be disposed of in the trash and not flushed down the toilet.
In addition to these obvious items, many other products that may seem flushable, such as “flushable” wipes, can cause problems in your plumbing. These wipes may make it through your toilet’s drain but can then get caught in your sewer line or septic tank and cause backups and clogs.
To avoid clogs caused by non-flushable items, make sure that everyone in your household knows what can and cannot be flushed down the toilet. It’s also a good idea to keep a wastebasket next to the toilet so that these items can be easily disposed of in the trash.
2. Low-Flow Toilet
Low-flow toilets are designed to save water, but they can be more prone to clogs than traditional toilets. These toilets use less water per flush, which can make it more difficult for waste to move through the pipes. While low-flow toilets can save water, they can also lead to more frequent clogs if not used properly.
Related Article: Toilet Gurgling: Cause and How to Fix It
To prevent clogs with a low-flow toilet, it’s important to use less toilet paper and to avoid flushing anything other than waste and toilet paper. It may also be helpful to flush twice if necessary to ensure that all waste is properly removed.
3. Hard Water
If you live in an area with hard water, mineral buildup can accumulate in your toilet’s pipes over time and cause clogs. Hard water is water that contains high levels of dissolved minerals like calcium and magnesium. Over time, these minerals can build up in your toilet’s pipes and cause clogs.
To prevent clogs caused by hard water, it’s important to regularly clean your toilet with a solution designed to remove mineral buildup. You can also install a water softener to reduce the amount of minerals in your water.
4. Old Plumbing
If you have an older home with outdated plumbing, your toilet may be more prone to clogs. Older plumbing systems can be more susceptible to clogs due to rust, corrosion, and buildup in the pipes. Additionally, older toilets may not be as efficient as newer models, which can lead to more frequent clogs.
If you suspect that your plumbing system is outdated, it may be a good idea to have a plumber inspect your system to determine if any repairs or updates are needed. Upgrading your toilet to a newer, more efficient model can also help reduce the risk of clogs.
5. Improper Flushing Technique:
Believe it or not, improper flushing techniques can also contribute to toilet clogs. Flushing too quickly or not using enough water can cause waste to become trapped in the pipes and lead to clogs.
To prevent clogs caused by improper flushing technique, make sure to flush slowly and use enough water to ensure that waste is properly removed. You may also want to consider upgrading to a toilet with a more powerful flushing system to ensure that waste is properly flushed away.
Toilet Clogging: How to Fix It
From understanding the common causes of toilet clogs to learning how to fix clogging toilet them using different methods such as plungers, toilet augers, boiling water, and chemical drain cleaners, this guide provides all the information you need to keep your toilet functioning smoothly. With tips on preventing future clogs and knowing when to call a professional plumber, this guide is a must-read for anyone dealing with a toilet that keeps clogging.
Use a Plunger
A plunger is one of the most effective tools for clearing a clogged toilet. To use a plunger, place the rubber end of the plunger over the hole in the toilet bowl and push down and pull up several times. This will create suction that can help dislodge the clog. If the water level is too high, use a bucket to remove some of the water before plunging.
Use a Toilet Auger
If the plunger doesn’t work, you may need to use a toilet auger. A toilet auger is a long, flexible tool that can reach deep into the toilet drain to remove the clog. To use a toilet auger, insert the end of the auger into the toilet drain and turn the handle until you feel resistance. This indicates that the auger has reached the clog. Then, turn the handle in the opposite direction to break up the clog.
Use Boiling Water
If the clog is caused by toilet paper or other soft materials, you may be able to clear it with boiling water. To do this, boil a pot of water and pour it into the toilet bowl. Let the water sit for a few minutes to soften the clog, then flush the toilet.
Use a Chemical Drain Cleaner
If the clog is stubborn and none of the above methods work, you may need to use a chemical drain cleaner. These products can be effective at breaking up clogs, but they can also damage your pipes and should be used with caution. Follow the instructions on the product carefully and use protective gloves and eye-wear.
Prevent Future Clogs
Preventing future clogs is just as important as fixing the current one. To prevent clogs, avoid flushing non-flushable items like wipes, feminine hygiene products, and paper towels. Use less toilet paper and flush twice if necessary. Consider upgrading to a low-flow toilet or a more powerful flushing system if your current toilet is prone to clogs. Regularly cleaning your toilet with a solution designed to remove mineral buildup can also help prevent clogs caused by hard water.
Conclusion
A Toilet Keeps Clogging can be a frustrating problem to deal with, but understanding the reasons why it’s happening can help you fix and prevent future clogs. From too much toilet paper to foreign objects in the drain, there are several common causes of toilet clogs. Fortunately, there are also several methods to fix the problem, such as using a plunger, toilet auger, boiling water, or chemical drain cleaner. It’s important to be mindful of what you flush and take preventative measures to avoid frequent clogs. If the problem persists, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance from a plumber.
