Ugh, toilet clogs – every homeowner’s nightmare (and even bigger nightmare for houseguests!) Unfortunately, 27% of Americans experience toilet clogs monthly. It’s a situation that can cause frustration and embarrassment, but have no fear. There are several ways to unclog a toilet, both with and without a plunger. Below, we’re diving into the common culprits of toilet clogs, how to avoid them in the first place, and how to address them when they arise.
What Causes Toilet Clogs?
Below are the most common causes for toilet clogs:
Too Much Toilet Paper
While toilet paper is designed to break down in water, too much of it at once can overwhelm your toilet’s drainage system. Use toilet paper sparingly and consider flushing multiple times if necessary, especially if you’ve used a large amount.
Flushing Non-Flushable Items
You see courtesy signage in public restrooms all the time, and for good reason. Flushing anything other than toilet paper is one of the top reasons for toilet clogs. Items like paper towels, feminine hygiene products, and baby wipes don’t break down as easily as toilet paper and can quickly lead to blockages.
Hard Water Deposits
Living in an area with hard water can result in the accumulation of mineral deposits within pipes over time. This buildup can lead to reduced water flow and increase the likelihood of clogs. Using a toilet bowl cleaner specifically designed to remove mineral deposits can help prevent this issue.
Old or Faulty Plumbing
Aging or faulty plumbing systems may be more susceptible to clogs due to reduced efficiency or structural issues. If you frequently experience toilet clogs, it may be time to consider upgrading to a more efficient toilet or calling a plumber to inspect your plumbing system.
Will My Toilet Unclog on its Own?
If the blockage is minor, a toilet could unclog on its own. This will depend on several factors, including water pressure, and how quickly the obstruction breaks down. But we recommend against waiting around for this to happen. It’s certainly not guaranteed and could cause further complications if not addressed.
Top Methods for Unclogging a Toilet
There are several methods you can try to unclog your toilet before calling a plumber, including:
Plunger
First and foremost, your plunger is going to be your best — and easiest — bet. To use, make sure the plunger’s rubber cup completely covers the drain opening in the toilet bowl. Apply firm pressure with the plunger and pull up sharply to create suction. Repeat several times until the clog is dislodged and water begins to drain.
Plumbing Snake
If the clog is particularly stubborn, a plumbing snake or auger may be necessary. Insert into the toilet drain and rotate it clockwise to break up the obstruction. Once dislodged, flush the toilet to clear the drain completely.
Hot Water and Dish Soap
Hot (not boiling) water mixed with dish soap could help dissolve the clog, acting as lubricants to break down the obstruction. Allow the mixture to sit for a few minutes before flushing the toilet. Stubborn clogs may require that you repeat this process several times.
Baking Soda and Vinegar
This natural DIY solution can help break down clogs and eliminate odors. Begin by pouring one cup of baking soda into the toilet bowl. Let sit for a few minutes before pouring hot (not boiling) water into the bowl. Allow the mixture to sit in the toilet bowl for several minutes before attempting to flush the toilet. If the water doesn’t drain freely, repeat the process until the toilet flushes normally.
Call Your Plumber
If all else fails, call a professional plumber for assistance. They’ll have the expertise and tools necessary to unclog your toilet safely and effectively.
When Should I Call a Plumber for a Clogged Toilet?
If you experience any of the scenarios below, you should definitely call a plumber to prevent worsened conditions:
- Repeated clogs
- Slow drainage
- Heavy odors (think sewage!)
- Visible water damage
- Unusual noises coming from the toilet or fixtures
If you’re experiencing persistent issues with a clogged toilet, it’s best to err on the side of caution and contact a licensed plumber for assistance.
How to Prevent Future Toilet Clogs
To prevent future toilet clogs, employ the following strategies:
- Use toilet paper sparingly. You might also want to consider thinner or less absorbent toilet paper.
- Don’t flush anything other than toilet paper (and what nature intended). Common clog-causing items include feminine hygiene products, q-tips, cotton balls, and baby wipes.
- Perform regular maintenance on your plumbing system, including cleaning the toilet bowl and tank and checking for signs of leaks or other plumbing issues.
- Schedule professional inspections to detect and address any potential issues before they escalate into plumbing emergencies.
- Consider getting a low-flow toilet, which uses less water per flush and can help reduce the risk of clogs.
Leesburg Toilet Repair Plumbers
If you’re experiencing repeated clogs, call or schedule an appointment today with your friendly neighborhood plumbers at Kiddco Plumbing!
