If you’ve found yourself begrudgingly reaching for the plunger yet again, you’re not alone. A clogged toilet can be one of the most annoying household problems — especially if it seems to keep happening. The first couple of times, you might just chalk it up to bad luck, but if you’re dealing with constant clogs, you’re probably at your wit’s end.
So, why does your toilet keep clogging? Let’s review the possible reasons and what you can do about it.
What Causes Toilets to Clog?
Before you can solve the problem, it’s vital to understand what causes toilets to clog in the first place. Several factors can contribute to frequent clogs, ranging from too much toilet paper to more severe issues like sewer line problems.
So, why does your toilet keep clogging? Here’s a closer look at the most common culprits:
Excessive Toilet Paper Usage
Toilet paper is often the main offender when it comes to clogs. Many people don’t realize how much toilet paper is too much, and while modern toilets are designed to handle a decent amount, there’s a limit. If you’re using excessive toilet paper, it might not fully flush down, leading to a clogged toilet trap. It’s important to remember that the thicker the paper, the harder it is for the toilet to push it through the pipes.
Flushing Non-Flushable Items
So, besides toilet paper, how does a toilet get clogged? It might seem obvious, but one of the most common reasons is flushing non-flushable items. Things like cotton balls, paper towels, feminine hygiene products, and even “flushable” wipes don’t break down as easily as toilet paper does. These items can cause major blockages in the plumbing system and lead to frequent toilet clogs.
Blocked Toilet Vent
Your toilet is part of a more extensive system that includes vents to allow fresh air into the plumbing lines, which helps maintain proper pressure. If a toilet vent becomes blocked — by anything from bird nests to debris — your toilet might not flush properly. Ultimately, this can be what causes toilets to clog. Understanding how a toilet vent functions can give you insight into why your toilet keeps clogging.
Clogged Toilet Trap
The toilet trap is the curved part of the toilet that holds water and keeps sewer gases from entering your home. Over time, debris can get stuck in the trap, causing it to become clogged. A clogged toilet trap is a common reason why toilets clog frequently.
Low Flow Toilets
Older low-flow toilets, especially those installed in the 1990s, were designed to conserve water but sometimes lacked the flushing power needed to clear the toilet bowl effectively. If you have an older low-flow toilet, it might be worth upgrading to a newer model to avoid constant clogs.
Issues With the Sewer Line
If you’ve ruled out all the above possibilities and your toilet keeps clogging, you might still be asking: Why does your toilet keep clogging? Unfortunately, the problem might be deeper within your plumbing system. Sewer line clogs, caused by anything from tree root penetrations to a buildup of waste, can prevent proper drainage and lead to frequent toilet clogs. Sewer line repairs are more complex and require professional plumbers.
How to Prevent Toilet Clogs: Practical Tips for Homeowners
Preventing clogs is often easier than fixing them. Here are some practical tips to keep your toilet running smoothly:
Be Mindful of What You Flush
As mentioned earlier, only flush human waste and toilet paper. Avoid flushing non-flushable items, and be conservative with your toilet paper usage. If you have kids, teach them what can and can’t go down the toilet to prevent accidental clogs.
Regular Maintenance
Have your plumbing system inspected regularly by professionals, like Zenner & Ritter’s plumbers in Buffalo, NY, especially if you live in an older home. Regular maintenance can help spot potential issues before they become major problems. Drain cleaning services can also clear out any buildup in your pipes, helping to prevent clogs.
Upgrade Your Toilet
If you have an older low-flow toilet, consider upgrading to a newer model with better flushing power. Modern toilets are designed to conserve water while still providing a strong flush, reducing the likelihood of clogs.
Use a Plunger Correctly
If you do experience a clog, using a flanged toilet plunger correctly can help clear it. Make sure the plunger forms a tight seal around the toilet drain, and use a firm, steady motion to dislodge the clog.
Consider a Toilet Auger
For more stubborn clogs, a toilet auger can be more effective than a plunger. This tool can reach deeper into the toilet trap to break up clogs that are out of reach.
When to Call Zenner & Ritter
Sometimes, no matter how careful you are, clogs still happen. If you’re dealing with frequent clogs, have slow drainage, or suspect a more serious issue like a sewer line clog, it’s time to call in the pros. Zenner & Ritter’s experienced team of plumbers in Buffalo, NY, can diagnose and fix the problem, whether it’s a simple clog or something more serious like sewer line repairs.
Have a Clogged Toilet? Call Our Plumbers in Buffalo, NY!
“Why does my toilet keep clogging?” If you were asking this question, hopefully, you now have your answer. Dealing with this problem can be frustrating, but understanding what causes toilets to clog can help you take the right steps to prevent it from happening again.
At Zenner & Ritter, we’re here to help with all your plumbing needs. Whether you’re facing a stubborn toilet clog or a more serious issue, our experienced team has the tools and knowledge to get things flowing smoothly again. We also offer services like water tank installation near Buffalo, NY, and the surrounding areas to help you maintain a reliable home plumbing system.
If you’re tired of constant toilet clogs and want to get to the bottom of the issue, don’t hesitate to schedule service with Zenner & Ritter. Our professional plumbers in Buffalo, NY, are ready to help you tackle even the toughest clogs. Contact us today!
