8 Causes Why Does My Toilet Keep Clogging?
Why does my toilet keep clogging when I see no obvious blockages? A single episode of toilet clogging can be frustrating and inconvenient. However, St. Charles’ plumbers like Advantage Plumbing occasionally see an exasperated homeowner wondering why these clogs are starting to happen more frequently.
In this article, our experts discuss eight common causes of toilet clogs and what you can do to stop the cycle.
1. Flushing Foreign Objects
It may seem obvious, but a toilet’s design only includes processing human waste and toilet paper. If you, your children, or your guests flush non-soluble items down the toilet, blockages become inevitable. Even if you recently cleared the pipes, one foreign object down the toilet can cause another major clog.
Items that should never go down the toilet include the following:
- Wet wipes
- Feminine hygiene products
- Small toys
- Paper towels
- Pieces of clothing
Has the toilet been clogged with one of these non-flushable items? Our professionals will need to use a plunger or drain snake to either bring them out or push them through to the main sewer lines.
2. Excessive Toilet Paper
Does someone in your household use far too much toilet paper? Toilet clogs will happen more frequently. Remember, toilet paper only breaks down if there’s enough water in the toilet and tank to soften and dissolve it. Excess toilet paper will form hard lumps that are much harder to break down.
Our professionals will typically use a plunger to eliminate this type of blockage. However, the problem will likely reoccur without intervention to stop others from using too much toilet paper.
3. Toilet Flapper Problems
When you flush your toilet, the flapper lets water flow down the pipes. If the flapper does not fully open, there may not be enough water to push down the waste and toilet paper. The first step is to confirm that the flapper does not lift all the way or to pinpoint an alternative issue.
If the flapper needs replacement, you can purchase a new one and swap it out.
4. The Clog Has Shifted
Did the previous clog dissipate, or has it only moved further down the line? Your previous efforts may have only pushed the clog further down the plumbing line, which also makes removing it more difficult. If you used a plunger before, the more serious clog would likely require an auger to reach its new location.
For the best results, call a plumber to deal with the clog once and for all. Professionals arrive with the right tools to reach and remove any clogs in one visit. They will either force the clog through to the main sewer line or pull it out, ensuring it doesn’t happen again.
5. An Obstructed Toilet Trap
The toilet trap stops odors and other gases in your plumbing pipes from re-entering your bathroom. However, it can also trap foreign objects, which will continuously clog the toilet. Homeowners could use a plunger to remove the clog, but that may not solve the problem permanently.
Why does my toilet keep clogging after removing the trap clog? It might be because you haven’t addressed the primary cause of the blockage. The best way to fix the problem is to remove the toilet bowl, turn it upside down, and evaluate the toilet trap.
Of course, this complicated job is best left to professionals like Advantage Plumbing. Leaving it to a qualified plumber will also reduce the risk of damaging your toilet, pipes, and other fixtures during the repair process.
6. Piping Obstructions
Countless chemical and biological reactions occur within your plumbing system. The pipes transport human waste, grease, household cleaning agents, and more to the sewer system or sewage tank. However, over time, these chemical reactions can cause a buildup that will inhibit water flow.
This problem is common in older properties. If so, the most practical solution would be to schedule a hydro-jetting service from a trustworthy local plumber. They will also check for tree roots piercing through your underground piping and cracks that disrupt the water flow in your toilets and sinks.
7. Clogs in the Plumbing or Toilet Vents
The plumbing and toilet vents play an important role in regulating water flow. It also controls the air flow into the pipes. Clogs in this area will cause water to drain slowly, which also leads to nasty toilet backups.
If you suspect a clog in your plumbing vents, you might be able to solve the problem by pouring water through the vent pipes using a hose. If that doesn’t help, call in a plumber immediately before the clog turns into a completely flooded bathroom.
8. Mineral Buildup Due to Hard Water
Illinois features as a “hard water” state, with an average of around 200 PPM. Hard water is not dangerous for people to bathe in or cook with, but minerals will eventually form deposits in your plumbing system to affect your water flow. It is another problem that is likely for those living in older homes with outdated plumbing infrastructure in Illinois.
How can you free up the plumbing system if hard water is a reality in your area? One solution is to call a plumber to flush the deposits off your pipes at regular intervals. If you intend to stay in the home over the long term, you should also consider installing a water softener to slow down any future mineral buildup.
Get Professional Help for Persistent Toilet Clogs in Illinois
Toilet clogs can get messy quickly, so reliving the experience is something we all want to avoid. If you’ve tried to handle the problem yourself, it might be time to call on professionals like Advantage Plumbing. We have extensive experience in toilet installation and repair, as well as expertise in handling all the possible causes of toilet clogs at short notice.
Why does my toilet keep clogging? Whatever the reason, Advantage Plumbing has a quick and easy solution. Call us at (847) 416-8064 today for toilet clogs, pipe issues, and more in Elgin, IL, and the surrounding areas.
