Why Does My Toilet Keep Clogging?

Dealing with clogged toilets ranks among the top plumbing frustrations for homeowners. While plungers or home augers can provide temporary relief, recurring clogs signal a deeper problem.

Learn the causes behind frequent toilet clogs, how to tackle them, and how an emergency plumber near you can help when DIY solutions don’t resolve the problem. 

Excessive Toilet Paper

Although toilet paper is designed to be flushed down the toilet and eventually disintegrate in water, there is a limit to how much TP your toilets and pipes can handle. Using too much toilet paper between each use can clog your toilets because it cannot break down fast enough, causing it to become stuck.

Another potential cause is using thick toilet paper, such as 3-ply or 4-ply. Although cushier and softer, each sheet has more material than standard single-ply or 2-ply paper, requiring more time in the water to break down. Therefore, the overuse of softer toilet paper can lead to quicker clog formation.  

If you have a blockage due to toilet paper, try plunging it or using a toilet auger, and consider using fewer sheets or thinner brands. Emergency plumbing services can help you clear the clog if the issue persists.

Older, Low-Flow Toilets

Low-flow toilets were first adopted in the early 1990s due to their water-conserving capabilities, in accordance with the Energy Policy Act of 1992.

If your home was built in the 1990s or early 2000s, it was likely fitted with early-generation low-flow toilets. Although they are relatively efficient for water conservation, their primary drawback is reduced water volume per flush and lower water pressure. These models are less efficient at flushing waste and paper, increasing the risk of clogging.

If your home is equipped with this type of toilet and seems to clog often, the best solution is to contact an emergency plumber. They can assess your plumbing and help you determine if your toilet or another underlying issue is the cause of repeated clogging. They can also provide model suggestions to upgrade your toilets to more modern and efficient alternatives.

Clogged Trap or Vent Line

The trap, a curved section of the toilet’s internal piping, is designed to hold standing water and prevent sewer gases from entering the home, maintaining a sanitary environment.

The vent pipe plays a crucial role in regulating air pressure within the drainage system. It facilitates the smooth flow of waste and water through the pipes by allowing sewer gases to escape safely to the outside. Together, these components ensure the toilet functions efficiently and remains free from odors and blockages.

Over time, both parts can become clogged with excess waste, toilet paper, or non-flushable debris, such as cotton balls, wipes, and hygiene products. Cleaning these elements of your plumbing network can be challenging and require the intervention of an emergency plumber’s drain cleaning service.

Not Enough Water in the Tank

If your toilet tank does not have the right amount of water, a flush may not have the force necessary to remove waste and TP entirely from the bowl, resulting in frequent clogs. Check the float inside your toilet tank to ensure it isn’t set too low. You can also inspect the fill valve and verify it is correctly adjusted. If neither of these solutions has fixed your problem, you may have a more serious water supply issue. 

Contact a 24-hour emergency plumber near you and explain the situation. They can locate and fix the issue, such as a leak in the tank, a faulty water supply valve, or another problem in the plumbing network.

Hard Water Buildup

Hard water buildup can lead to toilet clogs by depositing minerals such as calcium and magnesium in the pipes and the toilet itself. These minerals accumulate over time, narrowing the internal passages and reducing the water flow. This restricted flow can impair the toilet’s ability to flush away waste efficiently, leading to clogs. 

The siphon jets under the rim of the toilet bowl, responsible for directing water into the bowl to facilitate flushing, can also become clogged with mineral deposits.

When these jets are obstructed, the flushing power decreases, making it difficult to clear the bowl and increasing the likelihood of clogs. Regular cleaning with descaling agents, bleach or vinegar can help remove these deposits. 

For persistent issues, a professional plumber might need to physically remove the buildup or suggest more permanent solutions, such as installing a water softener system to treat hard water before it enters your plumbing system.

Let Blue Collars Handle Toilet Emergencies

Blue Collars is a family-owned and operated business that offers HVAC services and plumbing in Charleston, SC, and neighboring areas. If your home is experiencing toilet clogging issues, contact our team. We will examine your home’s plumbing infrastructure, identify the issue, and restore your toilets and plumbing system to optimal functionality.