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A clog is one of the most frequent toilet plumbing issues homeowners face. A toilet can become clogged for several reasons, some of which are easy for homeowners to take care of while others require the expertise of a professional plumber. Let’s explore some common reasons your toilet keeps clogging and what you can do about it.

Flushing Non-Flushable Items

One of the most common reasons for a clogged toilet is flushing non-flushable items. Commonly flushed items include paper towels, feminine hygiene products, and baby wipes can easily clog the toilet and cause blockages in the drain. If you or someone in your household has been flushing non-flushable items, stop immediately to prevent further damage to your toilet and plumbing system.

DIY Fix: If the clog is minor and close to the bowl, you can use a plunger to remove it. Place the plunger over the drain and pump it up and down vigorously until the water starts draining. If you can’t remove the clog or if it keeps coming back, it’s time to call a professional plumber from Fosh Plumbing & Heating, Inc. 

Mineral BuildUp

Over time, minerals and sediment can build up in the toilet plumbing and bowl, causing clogs. This is particularly common in areas with hard water. The minerals can lead to pipe corrosion and cause damage to the toilet bowl or other plumbing system parts.

DIY Fix: To remove the buildup, use a toilet bowl cleaner containing hydrochloric acid (HCl). Pour the cleaner into the toilet bowl and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing it down with a toilet brush. Be sure to wear gloves and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. If the mineral build-up is severe, it’s best to call a professional plumber for further investigation.

Low-Flow Toilets

Low-flow toilets use less water. Because of this, they’re more likely to clog than traditional toilets. This is because the lower volume of water may not be enough to flush waste down the drain. Additionally, low-flow toilets may not be able to handle larger loads of waste, which can lead to clogs.

DIY Fix: If you have a low-flow toilet, it’s important to be mindful of what you flush. Avoid flushing large amounts of waste or non-flushable items. You can also try increasing the water flow by adjusting the water level in the tank. If you continue to experience clogs, it’s best to call a professional clogged toilet plumber.

Sewer Line Issues

If you have tried everything and your toilet is still clogged or continues clogging, the issue may be with the sewer line. A blockage or damage to the sewer can prevent waste from draining properly and cause clogs in the toilet. This is a serious issue that homeowners should not attempt to fix and requires the attention of a professional plumber.

A clogged toilet can be a frustrating and messy problem to deal with. The best way to prevent most clogs is to be mindful of what you flush down the toilet and to perform regular maintenance on your plumbing system. If you’re dealing with persistent clogs that keep coming back, it’s always best to get the opinion of a clogged toilet plumber. Ignoring the issue can lead to more serious problems and costly repairs in the long run. To learn more about what to do if your toilet clogged, call the professionals at Fosh Plumbing & Heating, Inc.