If a toilet clog keeps returning and basic methods don’t work, it’s time to call in a professional Clearwater Plumbers. This indicates a serious problem with your pipes and may require a more thorough inspection. Good bathroom etiquette and having your plumbing professionally inspected annually can prevent many clogged toilets. Here are some common reasons why your toilet may keep clogging:
Does the water get drained slowly?
Plumbing is the system of pipes and fixtures that deliver potable water, remove wastes and regulate water flow. It is often referred to as the lifeblood of your home, so it’s essential to know when you might have a problem. A slow drain is often a symptom of a bigger issue. If you don’t address it, the problem may worsen, resulting in a costly repair bill or a sewage backup.
If your drain seems to be clogging up, try using a plunger. It may dislodge the gunk and get your water flowing again.
You can also pour a mix of vinegar and baking soda down the drain to break up any grime that’s building up. Remember to use this method sparingly—too much of it could damage your pipes.
Many plumbing issues are out of sight and reach, such as the main sewer line outside your house or the septic tank in your yard. If you have multiple slow drains, it might indicate a larger issue with your entire plumbing network. These problems can be difficult to diagnose without professional equipment, but it is important to act promptly.
Because the drain pipes in your house connect to each other and then to the main sewer line outside, a single problem can affect all the pipes. For instance, if your bathroom drain is clogged with hair and soap scum, it’s likely that those materials are making their way into the main line.
A clog in the main line can cause sewage to back up into your home, which is a messy and unsanitary problem. It can also cause significant property damage and lead to expensive repairs. That’s why it’s a good idea to have your drain lines professionally inspected and cleaned on a regular basis. A plumber can use camera inspection tools to see inside your pipes and determine the best course of action.
Did you flush something wrong?
Sometimes, even the most well-intentioned of homeowners have a moment of “uh oh”. Whether your toddler dropped their dolls in the toilet or you flushed something that wasn’t meant to go there, it can be an extremely frustrating situation. The good news is that items that aren’t made to go down your drain can often be retrieved.
If you can see the item still in your toilet or p-trap, throw on a pair of gloves and try to gently pull it out with your hands. If you can’t see it, grab a wire coat hanger and bend it into a small hook shape, being careful not to scratch your toilet bowl. Then, insert the hook into the drain opening.
Some items that can get stuck in your plumbing pipes include:
Capsules or pills (including aspirin): They can become a part of clumps that block drains and septic systems.
Cotton swabs (Q-tips) and cotton balls: These absorb water, grow larger, and can clog toilet drains or sewer lines.
Diapers: They’re too bulky to flush safely and can cause tough sewer clogs.
To avoid these problems, add a cup of baking soda and a tablespoon of table salt to your drain monthly to prevent buildup. Also, use a drain snake once a month to clear away clogs and save yourself money on costly repairs. Learn more about plumbing by scheduling a service with the experts at Jay Mechanical in Essex, MA!
