Toilet clogs are among the most frustrating — and often urgent — household problems. When your toilet starts to act up, it usually means diving into a murky world of water flow and plumbing. But understanding why your toilet keeps clogging is crucial to fixing the issue and keeping it clog-free for the long haul. Here are five common culprits and what you can do about them.

Flushing Non-Flushable Items

Your toilet is not a universal garbage can, and flushing anything other than toilet paper and human waste is a gamble. Common non-flushable items that cause clogs include:

• Sanitary products
• Diapers
• Cotton swabs
• Paper towels
• Dental floss

These items do not dissolve in water like toilet paper does, and over time, they can create stubborn blockages. It’s not just about what’s happening in your toilet bowl; these clogs can also lead to serious issues further down your plumbing system.

What to do: Ensure everyone in the household knows what can and cannot go down the toilet. Keep a covered garbage can in the bathroom for disposal of non-flushables.

Insufficient Water Flow

The strength and volume of the flush are critical to pushing waste through the drain. If you’re experiencing persistent clogs, it could be due to a lack of water flow. Potential causes of insufficient water flow include:

• A partially closed supply valve
• Sediment blocking the rim feed holes and siphon jets
• Malfunctioning flush components like the flapper or fill valve

How to Fix It:

• Check that the supply valve is fully open.
• Clean the rim feed holes and siphon jets regularly to maintain a strong flush.
• If the issue persists, consider replacing the faulty components with ones that match your toilet model.

Buildup of Mineral Deposits

As water passes through your toilet, it leaves behind minerals like calcium and magnesium. Over time, these deposits can form limescale, which narrows the passage for water and waste.

Removing Mineral Deposits:

• Use a descaling solution or vinegar to dissolve the buildup.
• Regular maintenance, such as annual cleanings, can help prevent mineral deposits from becoming a problem.

Faulty Toilet Mechanics

A toilet has several moving parts that can wear out or misalign, leading to clogs. Common mechanical issues include:

• A lift chain that is too tight or too loose
• A broken flapper that doesn’t seal properly
• A fill valve that doesn’t shut off, leading to tank overflows

Troubleshooting and Repair:

• Adjust the lift chain to have a little slack when the flapper is closed.
• Ensure the flapper is properly seated and creates a watertight seal.
• If the fill valve overflows the tank, you may need to replace it.

Sewer Line Blockage

If you’ve ruled out the previous reasons and are still dealing with clogs, the problem may lie beyond your property line in the sewer system. Signs of a sewer line blockage include:

• Multiple drain clogs throughout the house
• Gurgling sounds in the toilet or other drains
• Backups in the lowest drains in your home

Clearing a Sewer Line Blockage:

• Call a professional plumber to perform a sewer line camera inspection.
• If necessary, the plumber can use tools like a plumber’s snake or hydrojetting to clear the blockage.

Home toilets are workhorses, dealing with a considerable amount of waste and water every day. Understanding these common issues can help you keep your plumbing in top shape. However, some problems may be too complex for a DIY approach. In such cases, it’s crucial to call in professionals, like Woodbridge Plumbing, to diagnose and fix the issue safely and efficiently.

Remember, maintaining a free-flowing toilet is about more than convenience; it’s about protecting your home from the potential damage that a clogged toilet can cause. For more plumbing insights and expert solutions, visit Woodbridge Plumbing for a wealth of resources and services that keep your home running smoothly.