Why Does My Toilet Keep Clogging?

Bathroom plumbing and toilets are a simple but necessary feature that's so much more than a convenience. Toilets are one of the things we've come to rely on for daily life.

A small clog here and there isn't a big deal. However, it becomes a major problem when keep asking yourself, why does my toilet keep clogging?

Most clogs can be fixed with a quick plunger job or other DIY fixes. Unfortuantely, constant clogging may be a symptom of a far more serious plumbing issue. Here are some of the most common reasons your toilet keeps clogging and what you can do to fix it.

Flushing the Wrong Things

Many people believe that some things are okay to flush, even if they're not toilet tissue. Facial wipes, baby wipes, feminine products, napkins or paper towels, cleaning wipes, and ear swabs should all be tossed in the trash, not down the drain.

Even items that are advertised as "flushable" can still cause clogging issues. If your sewage connects to the local sewer system, that damage could be extended to the entire neighborhood or system.

Products like cleaning wipes and paper towels are designed to resist tearing. While this feature is helpful while cleaning, it means they're extra difficult to dissolve and pass through your plumbing system. This could cause both immediate clogging as well as long-term damage.

Avoid flushing anything but a responsible amount of toilet tissue. Monitor young children in the bathroom to make sure no toys find their way down the toilet.

Your Main Sewer Line Is Damaged

When your main sewer line is backed up, this will also cause your toilets to constantly clog. This is likely due to an obstruction at the drain outlet. If there are drainage problems anywhere in your home, this would indicate a larger sewer line issue.

Severe issues such as tree root punctures, broken pipes, or the introduction of dirt, debris, and rocks into the pipe could all cause main sewer line damage. Your toilets will continue to clog until the sewer line is repaired or replaced.

If all your toilets or drains regularly clog, schedule drain clearing services as soon as possible to prevent further damage. With the use of camera technology, qualified technicians can identify the cause of your mainline issues and safely clear them up. Regular drain clearing and plumbing maintenance can help you keep these damaging and costly issues at bay.

Toilet Paper Is Overused

Excessive use of toilet tissue is a common cause of clogs. Most people only need a few squares to successfully do the job. Even though it's made to be flushed, the more you send down the toilet, the more easily it will clog.

This is the easiest clogging issue to resolve! Touch base with your household family member and demonstrate proper toilet tissue folding as well as responsible quantity, especially for young children. Make sure everyone understands how the flushing mechanism works better if held down just a second or two longer.

There are so many toilet paper products to choose from! From single-ply and multi-ply toilet tissue to extra soft, and eco-friendly options. There is even toilet tissue that's designed for septic tank use. Instead of grabbing the usual choice next time you shop, browse what's available and potentially better for your system.

The S-Trap Is Backed Up

Most toilets and other plumbing fixtures have a trap that prevents objects from moving down into your sewer line where it could potentially cause greater obstructions or damage. They also prevent odorous gasses from returning up the pipe and spreading an unpleasant smell.

Sinks usually have what's called a P-trap and can be easily spotted underneath. The S-trap under a toilet accomplishes the same preventative measures. If you're constantly plunging to unclog your toilet, objects stuck in the trap may be the cause.

If a plunger doesn't do the trick, try a toilet auger. If no DIY try resolves your clogging issues, it's time to schedule drain clearing services with your trusted San Diego plumber!

Your Low-Flow Toilet Is Underperforming

While these low-flow toilets use water more economically, if they do not effectively clear the bowl or clear a clog all the way through the S-trap, you will end up flushing more frequently. This could result in a greater loss of water than a standard or high-powered flushing toilet.

A low-flow toilet that has too little power could be the reason your toilet keeps clogging.

Or the toilet may be an outdated low-flow model that should be replaced. Because toilets last so long, many people do not consider replacing them until they no longer function or break. However, if saving water while also avoiding clogs is a priority for you, it might be time to upgrade.

Still wondering why does my toilet keep clogging, it may be time to schedule plumbing maintenance.