There is no need to worry if you experience a clogged toilet now and then. This is perfectly normal and should be an expected part of homeownership. It’s a different story, however, when it occurs for prolonged periods without signs of stopping. Deeper issues may be at play when backups happen regularly.
Here, an expert plumber in Hayden, ID, discusses the underlying causes of recurring toilet backups and clogs, to protect you from frustration when they happen.
- Non-Flushable Items: Paper towels, wipes, and hygiene products don’t break down as advertised. These can, instead, form blockages should enough material accumulate within plumbing systems.
- Pipe Buildup: Grease, soap residue, and mineral deposits can slow drainage as pipe diameter is reduced.
- Sewer Line Issues: Tree roots, cracks, or misaligned pipes can obstruct flow, causing backups that won’t go away with plunging.
“What you flush down the toilet can have long-term consequences. Even ‘flushable’ wipes can accumulate and clog sewer lines,” says a licensed plumbing contractor.
How Your Home’s Plumbing System Works
Understanding why backups happen requires having a basic understanding of how plumbing operates. As a primer, homeowners should know every fixture in their home connects to a larger network of pipes leading to the main sewer line.
The following are key components of plumbing and how they work:
- Sewer Lines: Transport wastewater from toilets, sinks, and showers to municipal sewage systems.
- Vent Pipes: Regulate airflow and pressure within the system to keep water moving smoothly.
- Drain Traps: Hold water to prevent sewer gases from entering your home but can become clogged over time.
Common Plumbing Choke Points That Cause Recurring Clogs
Some plumbing problems have less to do with bad habits and more to do with structural issues in the system itself. Here are some choke points that may facilitate recurring clogs:
- Narrow Pipes: Older homes may have smaller pipes that are more prone to clogging.
- Poor Pipe Angles: Incorrectly sloped pipes slow drainage and allow waste to settle.
- Collapsed or Shifted Pipes: Ground movement, corrosion, or poor installation can cause sewer lines to fail.
Signs It’s Time for a Sewer Line Inspection
Recurring toilet backups count as a bathroom plumbing emergency. Watch for these warning signs before the problem worsens:
- Gurgling Sounds: Bubbling noises indicate air trapped in pipes.
- Multiple Drain Backups: Clogs affecting more than one drain suggest a sewer line problem.
- Sewage Odors: A persistent foul smell near drains or in your yard indicates a break or blockage.
When to Call a Pro for Recurring Toilet Backups
Sometimes, a plunger or drain cleaner isn’t enough to solve the problem. If you notice these signs, seeking professional solutions is the best course of action.
- Slow Draining Water: Persistent slow drainage, even after plunging, signals a deeper issue.
- Frequent Overflowing: If your toilet overflows regularly, it’s likely a sign of a larger blockage.
- Sewage in the Bathtub or Sink: Wastewater backing up into other fixtures is a red flag for a major clog.
Clog Prevention Tips
Clog prevention saves money, stress, and your property from potential water damage. Adopting better habits can keep your plumbing in good condition.
- Flush Only Toilet Paper: Avoid flushing anything but toilet paper.
- Regular Drain Cleaning: Schedule drain cleaning regularly to prevent buildup.
- Install a Drain Screen: Catch hair, debris, and other clog-causing materials before they enter pipes.
Choosing the Right Plumbing Company
The right choice of plumbing expert can help you avoid ineffective repairs and additional costs. Here’s how to choose the right professional:
- Check Licenses & Insurance: Your chosen plumber must be certified and insured.
- Read Reviews: Online testimonials are telling of an expert’s workmanship and professionalism. Be sure to ask for referrals.
- Ask About Pricing: Request an upfront estimate and inquire about warranty policies.
What To Do During Emergency Plumbing Situations
Action is crucial when plumbing emergencies occur. Follow these steps before calling a professional to minimize the extent of damage caused by an emergency:
- Turn Off the Water: Before anything else, shut off the water valve to stop the overflow.
- Avoid Using Drains: Using other fixtures may worsen the problem, even if only one toilet is clogged.
- Call an Emergency Plumber: If sewage is backing up or water damage is occurring, professional intervention is necessary.
Toilet backups and clogs won’t resolve themselves, and temporary fixes won’t stop them from coming back. If you are dealing with these problems, take the first step toward a clog-free home by working with plumbing services today!
Also Read: Faucet Follies to Floods: How the Best Plumber in Austin Keeps Your Home Safe and Sound
