Problems with Frequent Clogs in the Toilet?

Toilet clogs are something that we are all familiar with and have experienced first-hand, unfortunately. Here’s a short guide on how clogs happen, where they happen, what causes them, and how perpetual clogs come about.

 

Toilet Clogs: The How

The structure of a toilet is made up of several bends in the line, meaning all water and waste must change direction often when flushed through the system. This is much easier for water to do than for any waste or debris. Bulky or stick-like objects have the potential to get stuck in the bends and trap any other waste or paper flowing through, causing a clog.

 

Toilet Clogs: Where?

The following locations are most common for toilet clogs:

• The toilet’s p-trap
• The flange, where the toilet sits on the floor
• The closet bend, which is the bend in the pipe underneath the floor
• The sanitary tee, where the floor pipe connects to the vertical pipe in the wall

 

Toilet Clogs: What Causes Them?

Toilets are designed to handle moderate amounts of toilet paper and human waste. When these are in excess, you risk a toilet clog. Anything else flushed down the toilet besides these two things also risk clogging your toilet. The most common causes include the following:

• Excess toilet paper
• Tampons/Tampon applicators
• Facial and baby wipes
• Cotton balls/swabs
• Grease and food
• Small objects such as toys, razors, toothbrushes, etc.

 

The Perpetual Clog

If your toilet is frequently clogged, you may have other problems than those listed above. A deeper problem may be present somewhere in your sewer line. A good way to test this is to check the other drains in your house to ensure they are running smoothly. If your showers, other toilets, sinks, and washing machine are slow or tend to back up, chances are you have a deeper problem. If this is the case, give Rapid-Rooter a call. Video inspection of your sewer line may be needed to diagnose and fix the issue.