A clogged toilet — on a good day — disrupts your routine and can leave you feeling a little helpless. But what’s even more frustrating is when the problem becomes recurring. No matter how thoroughly you feel you’ve plunged the toilet, the dreaded clog returns a few days later. Why is this happening?
It may be unpleasant to hear, but a clogged toilet is often just the tip of the iceberg. In most cases, the recurring problem serves as a warning sign for a deeper plumbing issue. Ignoring these frequent clogs can lead to more serious problems down the line. So, let’s look at the top reasons why your toilet keeps clogging.
Why Your Toilet Is Clogged
There are several culprits behind a persistently clogged toilet. In some cases, you or a loved one simply needs to change their habits a bit. In other cases, a professional plumber may be needed to clear the underlying obstruction or repair vital piping. How do you know which is the case? Well, first, familiarize yourself with some of the common reasons toilets clog in the first place:
Flushing Non-Flushables
This is a very common reason why toilets keep clogging. Toilets are designed to handle waste and toilet paper — that’s it! Flushing anything else, such as “flushable” wipes, feminine hygiene products, cotton swabs, or dental floss, can create a clog that’s difficult to dislodge with a plunger.
Using Too Much Toilet Paper
Even flushable items can cause problems if used in excess. Encourage everyone in your household to be mindful of how much toilet paper they use and consider switching to a softer, more dissolvable toilet paper. While budget-friendly toilet paper can feel like a steal, it often doesn’t break down as easily as more expensive brands.
Flushing Foreign Objects
Sometimes, foreign objects like toys or cleaning tools accidentally end up taking a plunge. These can become lodged in the toilet’s trap (the curved section of pipe beneath the bowl that holds water), causing a clog. Our experienced plumbers can quickly remove the foreign object and restore the flow of your toilet.
Pressure Issues
In some cases, your toilet may frequently become clogged due to inadequate pressure. For example, older toilets, particularly low-flow models, may not have a strong enough flush to adequately remove waste. This can lead to a gradual buildup in the internal trap and drain, which eventually creates a clog.
In other cases, your toilet’s vent pipe may be causing the imbalance. If this pipe is clogged (often by debris like leaves or bird nests), it can disrupt the pressure balance in the system, leading to slow drainage and potential clogs.
Sewer Line Clog
In some cases, the problem might not originate in your toilet itself but further down the line. A clog in the main sewer line can cause backups that affect multiple fixtures in your home, including your toilet. Tree root intrusion is often a common culprit of this problem and requires the expertise of a licensed plumber.
How to Prevent a Clogged Toilet
Once a professional plumber has cleared up your drainage system, you may be eager to find ways to prevent your toilet from clogging in the future. Here are some proactive steps you can take to keep your toilet running smoothly:
- Educate Your Household: Make sure everyone in your home understands what can and cannot be flushed down the toilet. Post a friendly reminder near the toilet if necessary.
- Use the Right Amount of Toilet Paper: Encourage everyone to be mindful of their toilet paper usage.
- Invest in a Flanged Plunger: A toilet plunger with a flange (the rubber extension that creates a tight seal) is more effective than a standard plunger for tackling toilet clogs.
- Upgrade Your Toilet: If you have an older, low-flow toilet, consider upgrading to a high-efficiency model with a stronger flush.
- Consider a Toilet Snake: A toilet snake is a long, flexible cable that can be inserted into the drain to break up minor clogs. However, be cautious when using one, as it can damage the toilet if used incorrectly.
- Schedule Regular Maintenance: Having your plumbing system inspected and cleaned by a professional can help identify potential problems before they become major clogs.
Keep Your Pipes Happy With Chosen Rooter & Plumbing
If your toilet keeps clogging despite your best efforts, it’s time to call an emergency plumber. Here at CR&P, we have the expertise and equipment to diagnose the cause of your clog and provide a lasting solution. We offer around-the-clock services, so you can rest assured that we’re here for you whenever you need us.
Don’t let a clogged toilet disrupt your life any longer. Contact our experts today for fast, reliable, and professional toilet repair in San Francisco. We’re here to help you get your plumbing system back on track!
