A clogged toilet is a frustrating issue everyone has dealt with at some point. While a plunger can usually take care of the problem, sometimes, the clog is too stubborn, and you need to call a professional. But, why do toilets keep getting clogged in the first place?
There are a few different reasons why your toilet might constantly be clogging. Here are seven of the most common causes:
Too Much Toilet Paper
While there are many possible causes of a clogged toilet, one of the most common culprits is too much toilet paper. While it may seem like you need a lot of toilet paper to clean, using too much of it can cause problems. When you flush the toilet, the water has to flow through a narrow pipe to get to the sewer. If there’s too much toilet paper in the pipe, it can block the water from flowing through.
As a result, your toilet will start to back up and may eventually overflow. Therefore, only use as much toilet paper as you need to avoid this problem. However, some tips for unblocking pipes can help if you’re still having trouble. For example, pouring hot water down the drain can help to loosen any clogs.
Flushing Non-Flushable Items
Another common cause of a clogged toilet is flushing non-flushable items. These include baby wipes, paper towels, and sanitary pads. While it may be tempting to flush these items down the toilet, doing so can quickly lead to a clog.
These items don’t break down like toilet paper, so they can quickly block the pipe. Therefore, your toilet will start to back up and eventually overflow. To avoid this problem, only flush items designed to be flushed. If you’re unsure whether something is flushable or not, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and throw it in the trash instead.
Build-Up Of Hair And Soap Scum
If you have a lot of hair, some of it will inevitably go down the drain. Over time, this can cause a build-up, eventually leading to a clog. In addition to hair, soap scum can also contribute to clogs. Soap scum is the residue left after soap interacts with hard water. This build-up can trap hair and other debris, which can eventually lead to a clog. In order to prevent this from happening, it’s important to clean your drains regularly.
Tree Roots In The Sewer Line
Root invasions are one of the most common causes of sewer line blockages. While tree roots may seem harmless, they can cause a lot of damage to your sewer line. Tree roots are attracted to the moisture and nutrients in the sewer line.
As they grow, they can crack or break the pipe, leading to a clog. Furthermore, tree roots can also grow into the sewer line, which can block water flow.
A Faulty Flapper Valve
A faulty flapper valve is another reason your toilet keeps clogging. When this valve becomes worn or damaged, it can no longer form a tight seal around the drain, allowing water to seep through slowly. As a result, the water level in the bowl can drop below the trap level, causing the bowl to siphon and eventually clog. In order to prevent this from happening, it’s important to check your flapper valve regularly and replace it as soon as it shows signs of wear.
Obstructed Plumbing Vents
Plumbing vents play an important role in your home’s plumbing system. These vents allow air to enter the sewer line, which helps break up waste and prevent clogs. However, if the vent is obstructed, it can cause problems.
There are a few different ways that plumbing vents can become obstructed. One way is if there’s a blockage in the vent pipe. This can be caused by lint, hair, or other debris.
Another way vents can become obstructed is if there’s an animal nest in the vent. This is more common in homes with unscreened vents. If you suspect that your vent is obstructed, it’s important to have it checked.
Toilet Is An Older Low-Flow Model
Low-flow toilets are designed to use less water per flush. While this is good for the environment, it can cause more problems. Since low-flow toilets use less water, they rely on a strong force to move the waste through the pipes. Over time, this force can break down the pipes and cause a clog. In addition, low-flow toilets often have smaller drains, which can easily become clogged. If you have a low-flow toilet, it’s important to be extra careful about what you flush.
Wrapping Up
Clogged toilets are a nuisance, but they don’t have to be a mystery. If your toilet keeps clogging, there’s likely a reason. By troubleshooting the problem, you can often fix it yourself. If you can’t, or if the clog is severe, it’s best to call a professional. A plumber can quickly diagnose the problem and provide a solution.
