Ways to Help Prevent the Toilet From Clogging
A clogged toilet can quickly turn a normal day stressful, dealing with the plumbing problem, but with the right habits, these toilet clogs can be mostly preventable. Preventing a clogged toilet starts with understanding what causes the blockages in the first place. Below are several methods to reduce the risk of clogs and keep the plumbing system running smoothly.
Be Careful About What Gets Flushed
One of the most effective ways to prevent a toilet clog is to control what gets flushed down the toilet drain. The only thing that should ever go into the toilet, besides human waste, is toilet paper. Anything else can quickly lead to buildup, blockages, and plumbing emergencies.
- Paper Towels and Tissues: These products may seem similar to toilet paper, but they’re designed to be much more absorbent and durable. Unlike toilet paper, which breaks down quickly in water, paper towels and tissues remain intact and can easily clog your pipes.
- Diapers and Feminine Hygiene Products: These items are made to absorb liquid, not dissolve in it. Once flushed, they expand and can completely block the pipe, leading to severe clogs that require professional removal.
- Wipes (Even “Flushable” Ones): Despite their marketing claims, “flushable” wipes don’t disintegrate as quickly as toilet paper. Instead, they often stick to pipe walls and combine with grease or other debris, forming stubborn clogs that restrict flow in both toilets and sewer pipes.
- Cotton Balls, Swabs, and Dental Floss: Small items like these might not seem harmful, but they don’t break down and can easily tangle or create buildup over time.
By only flushing waste and toilet paper, homeowners can drastically reduce the chances of developing a clogged toilet and maintain a healthier, longer-lasting plumbing system.
Use Less Toilet Paper
Even though toilet paper is designed to break down in water, too much of it can overwhelm a toilet’s flushing system. Using excessive amounts at once creates bulk that may not clear the trapway or drain properly.
- Use Moderate Amounts per Flush: Try to use just what’s necessary, such as several small wipes rather than a large wad. Using less paper allows the water to carry waste away more effectively.
- Flush More Than Once if Needed: When extra toilet paper is required, it’s better to flush multiple times as you go rather than waiting until the end. This helps prevent buildup in the trap and reduces the likelihood of a clog forming during the flush.
- Choose Rapid-Dissolve Toilet Paper: Some brands are specifically designed to break down quickly. These are especially helpful for older plumbing systems or homes with a risk of sewer line clogs.
Taking these simple steps helps prevent unnecessary strain on both the toilet and the larger sewer system, ensuring better performance and fewer backups.
Prevent Sewer Line Clogs
Sometimes, the problem causing a clogged toilet doesn’t start in the bathroom but begins deeper underground, within the sewer line. If the sewer pipes become clogged or damaged, even a perfectly maintained toilet can clog, back up, or drain slowly. Below are some potential causes of a blocked or clogged sewer line and tips to help prevent them:
- Tree Root Intrusion: Roots naturally seek moisture and can infiltrate small cracks or joints in sewer pipes, eventually blocking the line. To prevent this, avoid planting trees near underground piping or install tree root barriers to protect the pipes.
- Grease and Food Debris Buildup: Pouring grease and oil or putting food waste down drains can cause buildup and clog the sewer line. So, avoid grease, oil, and food waste going down the sink drain and dispose of them in the garbage instead.
- Collapsed or Damaged Pipes: Older homes often have old clay or cast-iron pipes that deteriorate over time. Once these pipes collapse, waste cannot flow properly, resulting in recurring blockages throughout the house. Routine plumbing inspections can identify old pipes in need of pipe replacement before they collapse.
Because sewer line issues are complex and require specialized tools, homeowners should never attempt DIY repairs. A professional plumber can perform a camera inspection to locate the blockage and determine whether the line needs cleaning, repair, or replacement.
About Zing Plumbing
Zing Plumbing is a local Tucson plumber offering high-quality plumbing services to residential and commercial clients. They are a licensed, bonded, and insured plumbing company that provides clean, friendly, expert service every time. Call them for clogged toilet repair in Tucson, AZ.
