Experiencing Frequently Clogged Toilets? Here’s Why and How to Prevent Them
Clogged toilets are one of the most frequent plumbing problems homeowners face. While many toilet clogs can be resolved with a plunger, some stubborn clogs call for professional help. Frequent toilet clogging can even be due to a sewer line clog.
This post will discuss the causes of clogged toilets, from flushing improper items and overusing toilet paper to clogged sewer lines, and offer insights into how to prevent toilet and sewer line clogs in the future.
Don't Flush the Wrong Things
One leading cause of clogged toilets is flushing items that don’t belong in the plumbing system. Toilets are designed to handle only human waste and toilet paper—anything else increases the risk of blockages.
Items that should never be flushed include:
- Paper Towels: Though they might seem similar to toilet paper, they don’t dissolve in water, making them a common culprit behind stubborn clogs.
- Tissues: Soft and lightweight, tissues may seem harmless, but they can still cause plumbing blockages.
- Diapers: While tossing a diaper in the toilet might seem like a quick solution, the size and materials of diapers can lead to significant blockages in the pipes.
- Feminine Hygiene Products: Small but mighty, these items can quickly obstruct plumbing systems, leading to expensive repairs.
- Wipes (even "flushable" ones): Even if labeled as flushable, wipes don’t degrade in the same way as toilet paper, often resulting in tough clogs that are difficult to remove.
Flushing these items can lead to toilet clogs or even more serious clogs in the sewer line. Homeowners should ensure everyone understands what is safe to flush and what should be disposed of in the garbage.
Why the Right Amount of Toilet Paper Matters
Even though toilet paper is safe to flush, using too much at once can create clogs, particularly in homes with low-flow toilets. Luckily, there are simple steps homeowners can take to prevent toilet paper-related blockages:
- Use Less: Reduce the likelihood of clogs by limiting the amount of toilet paper per use.
- Flush in Intervals: Flushing more often during use prevents the system from becoming overwhelmed and minimizes the chance of blockages.
- Choose the Right Type: Go for toilet paper designed to dissolve quickly, such as thinner or biodegradable varieties, which are easier on plumbing systems.
By adopting these straightforward habits, homeowners can keep their toilets running smoothly and avoid unnecessary plumbing issues.
Avoid Clogged Sewer Lines
While occasional toilet clogs are common, frequent blockages may signal a more serious issue within the sewer line. A clogged sewer line can cause toilets and drains to back up, creating significant household disruptions for homeowners.
To help prevent sewer line clogs, plumbers recommend the following practices:
- Be Careful About What Goes Down the Drain: Homeowners should avoid pouring grease, oil, and fats or putting food scraps down the kitchen sink drain, as these materials can solidify and lead to stubborn sewer pipe clogs. Household members should dispose of them in the trash or compost instead.
- Book Regular Drain Maintenance: Routine drain cleanings and maintenance can help prevent buildup and other sewer line problems and avoid expensive repairs.
- Monitor Nearby Trees: Tree and shrub roots can infiltrate sewer lines for water and nutrients, causing clogs and damage. Regularly check the yard’s landscaping to identify and address potential root intrusions before they cause damage.
If homeowners suspect a problem with their sewer pipe, they should call a professional plumber. They can assess the issue and determine whether drain cleaning, sewer line repair, or replacement are necessary to restore the plumbing system.
About Trusted Plumbing and Heating
The experts at Trusted Plumbing and Heating provide top-rated plumbing services to King County. With more than 45 years of experience, they offer flat-rate pricing. Call them today for clogged toilet repair in Renton, WA.
