We’re sure that we can all agree that the toilet is probably the most used fixture in your home. So, dealing with a clogged commode is extremely frustrating – and sometimes requires unpleasant clean up. To understand why your toilet may be getting clogged and help you prevent future blockages, the pros at Eastern Plumbing in Greenville, NC have put together a list of five reasons why toilets get clogged. So, keep your eyes out for these clogging culprits and keep the plunger where it belongs – stored away!
1. First-Generation, Low-Flow Toilets
Many modern toilets utilize a low-flow design aimed at saving water. But, some of the earliest models of these toilets may lack the necessary pressure to clear the internal trap and drain, meaning that they often develop clogs. You can find the stamped date on the back of your toilet. If it was made in the mid-1990s, you could have one of these first-generation, low-flow toilets. If you have one of these toilets, but are not in a rush to replace it, you can reduce clogging by using less toilet paper and avoiding clog-prone items. But, if clogging persists, the best solution is to install a more up-to-date toilet.
2. Flushing Non-Flushable Items
Remember, your toilet is designed to only dispose of certain material. Paper towels, wet wipes, dental floss and other items can restrict drainage and cause constant back up in your toilet. Check out our blog, 8 Things You Should Never Flush Down the Toilet, to learn more! Talk to others in your household about what is and isn’t safe to flush. If you have young kids, it may be good to keep a list of non-flushable items close to the toilet. A big trash can near the toilet is a great idea too!
3. Blocked Toilet Trap
The toilet trap is a curved part of the porcelain that is built into the side of the base of the toilet. It is there to hold standing water and keep sewer gases from entering your home. Items can clog the trap and cause a backed-up toilet. A few minutes with a plunger should loosen any blockage and remove the clog. But, for more stubborn clogs, it may be necessary to use a toilet auger. To keep this from happening, use less toilet paper and don’t flush ANYTHING down your toilet that shouldn’t be flushed. By following these simple steps, your toilet trap should stay clear!
4. Blocked Plumbing Vent
Toilets, and other plumbing appliances, have vents to funnel fresh air into and out of the system, which prevent air-pressure vacuums that can block drain flow. Over time, these vents can become closed with leaves, sticks, animal nests and other debris. A blocked toilet vent will reduce the flow and cause clogs over and over again. The best solution is to hire the pros at Eastern Plumbing to clear your vents. Because blockages are hard to spot and require special tools to remove, this isn’t a chore you need to try to tackle yourself!
5. Main Sewer Line Problems
If you are experiencing continuous clogs in multiple toilets and even in other drains, this is usually a sign of a larger sewer line problem. Clogs in multiple fixtures are often caused by a buildup of material, toilet paper and other non-flushable items in both the sewer and main drain lines. Tree roots can even puncture your sewer line, letting in sediment. Problems in the main sewer line can cause major issues inside and outside of your home, and even threaten the health of your family. Sewer-related problems should always be tackled by licensed and experienced professionals.
If you are experiencing clogs, give Eastern Plumbing a call today. Servicing Greenville and New Bern, North Carolina, our experienced pros can diagnose and fix your clogging issues!
