How to Prevent Toilet Clogs

A consistent clog in the toilet is a sure sign you’re having a problem with your plumbing. Several issues could be at hand. Here, we break down the top reasons for consistent clogging and share some solutions to hopefully get you unclogged.

Reasons Your Toilet Keeps Clogging

When your toilet clogs repeatedly, it’s a surefire sign that something is wrong. You’re generally looking at a problem with your pipes, toilet, or what someone (generally a child) flushed down the toilet. Common causes of frequent clogging include:

• Excessive toilet paper use
• Unflushable items
• Older low-flow toilets
• Clogged sewage line

Let’s explore these common reasons, how you can remedy the issues on your own, and when you need to call us to come and help you.

Older Low-Flow Toilets

The early models of low-flow toilets often lacked the pressure to consistently push waste through the trap and drain of your toilet. Poor flushing pressure can leave waste behind, which results in frequent toilet clogs.

How to fix:

Replace your older low-flow toilets with newer models. The original low-flow toilets of the mid and late 90s just don’t cut it when it comes to waste removal.

Non-flushable Items

The only things that should go down your toilet are human waste and toilet paper. Anything other than that is bound to cause problems.

We realize many wipes are marketed as flushable. Unfortunately, that is not the case. So-called flushable wipes do not break down in the water like toilet paper does and often create issues.

How to fix:

If a clog forms due to improper items in the drain, use a flanged plunger to dislodge the clog. If this does not work, use a toilet auger to break up material and clear the drain.

You can use a toilet plunger to get the material through the trap and drain. If this doesn’t work- you’ll probably need to give us a call to break up the material with a toilet auger.

The best way to solve this problem is to prevent it altogether. Talk about what people can and can’t flush. Remind them that things like Q-tips, food, and toys do not belong in the pot.

Excessive TP Use

Toilet paper is made to be flushed. However, when too much toilet paper is used, it can stick to the toilet and drain pipes, causing a clog.

Some thicker two-ply toilet paper is a known culprit for not breaking down as fast as single-ply toilet paper. We recommend using less than usual when using a two-ply toilet paper with an older toilet.

What to do:

Use the minimum you need when using plush, thick toilet paper.

Clogged Sewer Line

Some clogs can fully exit your plumbing fixtures and individual drain lines but can become trapped in the main sewer line. Clogs in the sewer line cause problems with drainage across the entire building and are difficult to correct on your own.

Sometimes, sewer lines become clogged due to outside sources, such as tree root penetrations, sewer line breaks, and infiltration. These issues clog your toilet, impacting drainage and your plumbing system’s ability to move waste out of your pipes. Sewer line repairs are needed if this problem is present.

How to fix:

Unfortunately, sewer line clogs must be corrected by a plumber. Ignoring sewer line clogs means your toilet keeps clogging; eventually, more damage is done to your plumbing system. Call us to schedule drain cleaning services if you suspect a sewer line clog.

Angry Pipe Plumbing Solutions

If you are experiencing frequent clogging and cannot identify the issue or fix the problem yourself, we are on call 24/7 to help find the source of the problem and provide a solution to eliminate the issue. Call us today for a free estimate!

We hope this information is helpful. At Angry Pipe Plumbing Solutions in Queen Creek, Arizona, we understand the importance of establishing a trustworthy relationship with a certified, licensed plumber. That’s why we offer convenient options for scheduling appointments. Feel free to reach out to us at 480-526-5030.

Our commitment to detail and exceptional service has made Angry Pipe Plumbing Solutions leaders in advanced plumbing repairs and installations. We welcome customers from Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, Queen Creek, and San Tan Valley, Arizona. We look forward to seeing you soon!