What Can Cause My Toilet to Clog?

What Can Cause My Toilet to Clog?

We’ve all been there - you use the bathroom right before you head out for work, then your toilet clogs, causing you to run late. While clogs can typically be fixed by using a plunger, having regular cloggings can be a signifier of a larger issue. If you’re experiencing repeat toilet cloggings, here are some reasons why that may be:

Overusing Toilet Paper

Toilet paper is designed to dissolve in the toilet with ease. If your toilet is clogging frequently, it could be a sign that too much toilet paper is being used. Many people think they need 6-8 squares of toilet paper to get the job done, but in fact, about 4 squares per wipe should get the job done. Wadding your toilet paper up to get your desired thickness also contributes to clogs. Try folding it up instead to prevent future clogs.

Flushing Wrong Items

Curious children like to conduct their own science experiments by flushing toys down the toilet, which leads to clogs. However, adults, too, often have misconceptions about what products can and cannot be flushed. Did you know flushable wipes aren’t actually flushable? That’s right - wipes are a typical culprit of toilet cloggings. Other items that cannot be flushed include Q-tips, feminine hygiene products, tissues and cotton balls. Toilet paper and human waste are the only items that should be flushed down the toilet.

Having a Low-Flow Toilet

If your home has an early model low-flow toilet, it could be the culprit behind frequent clogs. Older, outdated low-flow toilets can cause clogging issues because it doesn’t have enough flush power to push the toilet paper waste completely through the traps and into the drainpipe. Try using less toilet paper or upgrade to a more powerful toilet.

Blocked Toilet Trap

The S-shaped plumbing trap lies between the toilet bowl and the drain line. It works to catch objects and prevent them from clogging the drain line. If something gets stuck in the trap, your toilet will continue to clog. A partial clog may not be as apparent as a full one, but it can remain in your drain even after the main clog is cleared. If the clog won’t fully come out with a plunger, try using a flanged toilet plunger to force water through the trap or use a toilet auger to break up the clog.

Clogged Plumbing Vent

Many people are unaware that their toilets are connected to a vent system that allows fresh air to flow between the pipes. This increases toilet flush power and allows gases to be released safely through the roof. If this vent is clogged or obstructed, the flushing power will be significantly reduced - it’s like sticking your finger on the end of a straw. Occasionally, plumbing vents can become clogged due to sticks, leaves and even birds' nests. Plumbers can check your vent pipes and unblock them.

Keep your toilet from clogging by having one of our inspectors come in for an installation, replacement or repair. ASAP Plumbing offers affordable quotes. Call us today at 228-865-2727 or visit www.plumbinggulfportms.com to request a free estimate!