A perpetually clogged toilet is a frustrating and annoying problem in Grand Rapids, MN. Generally, if your toilet clogs more than once every few months, there’s usually a problem with the plumbing or what you’re sending down the drain. Read on to learn more about what could cause these problems and how to fix them.

Non-flushable items

There are plenty of items that claim to be “flushable” that really aren’t. “Flushable” simply means that the items are biodegradable, not that they won’t clog your toilet line. The only things you should send down your toilet are human waste and toilet paper. That means no feminine hygiene products, no baby wipes and no kitty litter (as convenient as it might seem).

Of course, people flush a bunch of other things down toilets, especially when kids are involved. Teach your children early that nothing can go in the toilet except for toilet paper—and be prepared to fish out toys and other objects anyway. Use a toilet plunger to loosen up clogs and break them apart with a stick, if necessary.

Using too much toilet paper

Despite what we mentioned in the section above, the fact that toilet paper is acceptable doesn’t mean you should use yards of it in a single flush. Not only is that wasteful (especially after 2020 made toilet paper a precious commodity), but if you use enough toilet paper, you’re bound to notice clogs. Make a household rule that you can use no more than three to four (folded) squares at a time. Otherwise, the paper won’t dissolve properly.

If you have a toilet paper clog, use a plunger to loosen it and try flushing again.

Low flow toilets

Low flow toilets are great for saving water, but they don’t always do a great job of flushing everything that needs to be flushed. They may not have enough pressure to push everything down past the trap and drain, and the material left behind can cause a clog.

If you have an older low flow toilet, consider replacing it with an upgraded model. They’re not terribly expensive, and your plumber can help you choose a model that works for your household and budget.

Blocked toilet vent

Your toilet has a vent that allows air to get into the plumbing. This is what’s responsible for creating enough pressure to send waste down the toilet. If you’ve noticed slow, gurgling drains, low pressure and sewage odors inside your home, a blocked vent may be the problem. Call a plumber to help you solve these issues.

Clogged sewer line

Finally, a clogged sewer problem could be the root of your issues. If you can’t pinpoint the source of your toilet clogs, it’s time to call a plumber—this is not a problem you can fix on your own.

If your toilet keeps clogging and you don’t know why, get in touch with the team at Rapids Plumbing & Heating Inc. in Grand Rapids, MN. We’ll get to the bottom of your toilet problems.