Why Does the Toilet Keep Clogging?
Toilet clogs can be a major problem in the home. Perhaps the most frustrating realization when facing a clogged toilet is that it is likely the user’s own fault. Most people have become too lax about their toilet habits, which can contribute majorly to chronic clogging. The good news is it’s within everyone’s power to change so that toilet clogs become a thing of the past. Here are three main reasons why people suffer from clogged toilets and how to prevent them.
The Wrong Stuff Is Getting Flushed
Most toilets clog because people in the home don’t understand what should and shouldn’t be flushed. Even things touted as flushable can cause major problems.
When deciding whether something is flushable, try to understand the principle behind the toilet. The quick flow of water creates a siphon and a whirlpool that break down waste. The rush of water and waste is then pulled quickly through the toilet’s P trap, further breaking down waste. In a perfect flush, the waste is completely mixed with water and broken down before it even enters the sewer. If a material is too sturdy, it will likely stall out in the sewer line and cause a clog.
The best rule of thumb is to flush only human waste and toilet paper. Everything else should be thrown away in the garbage. This ensures all the waste can flow with maximum velocity through the sewer line without slowing down and clogging.
Using Too Much Toilet Paper
A related problem to the one discussed above is using too much toilet paper even though it can be flushed. Too often, people try to flush massive wads of toilet paper only for it to get stuck in the toilet. However, it is easily preventable with the right strategy.
To start, try using less toilet paper. Folding toilet paper is more effective than wadding and helps it break down upon flushing. Additionally, using a small amount of toilet paper at a time and flushing in between can ensure each flush is a more manageable load for the toilet, making it less likely to form a clog.
The Sewer Line Is Clogged
The final reason for clogged toilets may not seem to be caused by user error, but in reality, it can be. Often, toilets will clog because the sewer line is clogged, and the mass that is flushed by the toilet has nowhere to go. Why is this still everyone’s responsibility? Most sewer line clogs are also preventable when people know what can cause them. To help prevent a clogged sewer line, encourage people in the home to:
- Stop hair and debris before it goes down the tub drain with hair catchers and mesh screens.
- Keep food, grease, and oil out of the kitchen sink drain and throw them in the garbage instead.
- Schedule routine drain cleaning and plumbing maintenance.
- Call for drain cleaning when needed to have sewer lines unclogged in a timely manner.
- Keep trees and vegetation away from the path of underground sewer lines to prevent clogs from tree roots.
Everyone can do their part to prevent sewer line clogs and subsequent toilet clogs by protecting sewer lines.
About The Plumbing Dr
The Plumbing Dr offers fast help for plumbing problems like toilet clogs and sewer line problems. They can handle all plumbing work, from residential to commercial services. Call today for clogged toilet repair in Falls Church, VA.
