Toilet clogs are one of the most frustrating household problems. Not only can they disrupt your daily routine, but frequent clogs can lead to costly plumbing repairs. Fortunately, with a few mindful habits and preventative measures, you can reduce the chances of clogging your toilet. – by a lot! Here’s how you can keep things running smoothly.
1. Watch What You Flush
The most common cause of toilet clogs is flushing things that shouldn’t go down the drain. Your toilet is designed to only handle human waste and toilet paper. Items like paper towels, wipes (even those marketed as “flushable”), cotton swabs, and feminine hygiene products should never be flushed. These items don’t break down like toilet paper and can cause serious blockages.
2. Use the Right Amount of Toilet Paper
Too much toilet paper at once can clog your toilet. Try to use smaller amounts, especially if you have an older plumbing system or low-flow toilet. If you need to use more toilet paper, it’s helpful to flush halfway through to avoid overwhelming the system. Opt for thinner or quick-dissolving toilet paper if clogging is a recurring issue.
3. Perform Regular Maintenance
Regular toilet maintenance can help prevent clogs before they happen. An easy way to maintain your toilet’s health is to pour a mixture of hot water and dish soap down the bowl occasionally. This can help break down minor build-ups and keep things moving smoothly. For more extensive preventative care, consider scheduling annual plumbing inspections with a pro to catch any potential problems before they escalate.
4. Avoid Chemical Drain Cleaners
When faced with a slow drain or minor clog, many people turn to chemical drain cleaners. However, these products can be harmful to your pipes and lead to long-term damage, particularly if used frequently. Over time, the chemicals can erode the pipes and worsen the problem. Stick with safer methods, like using a plunger or calling a professional plumber.
5. Flush Twice if Necessary
Sometimes, one flush isn’t enough, especially if you have a low-flow toilet. If the contents of the bowl don’t fully clear after one flush, don’t hesitate to flush again. Just be cautious not to overdo it—flush once after use and again if necessary, rather than trying to force everything through in one go.
6. Install a Toilet with a Strong Flush
If you experience frequent toilet clogs despite following good habits, your toilet’s flushing power might be the issue. Older or low-flush toilets are more prone to clogging, as they don’t always generate enough force to push waste through the pipes. Upgrading to a more powerful or modern toilet can greatly reduce the chances of clogs.
7. Know When to Call a Professional
If you find yourself dealing with frequent clogs despite taking preventative steps, it may be a sign of a more serious issue, such as a blocked sewer line or tree roots invading your pipes. In such cases, it’s best to call a professional plumber to assess the situation and provide a long-term solution.
Contact Rub-A-Dub Plumbing for All Your Toilet Plumbing Needs in Tyler, TX and the Surrounding Areas
Preventing toilet clogs isn’t difficult when you follow a few simple rules. By being mindful of what you flush, using your toilet wisely, and keeping up with regular maintenance, you can avoid most common clogs. Remember, if the problem persists, it’s better to seek professional help than risk damaging your plumbing system. Contact Rub-A-Dub Plumbing in Tyler, TX for all your toilet repair, maintenance, and replacement needs. Keep your pipes happy, and your bathroom will run smoothly!