Toilet bowl with water and a plunger, featuring bubbles, illustrating common plumbing maintenance by Scott Plumbing.

A Homeowners Guide to Avoiding Clogged Toilets

Common Problems with Toilet Clogging

Toilets are a very common fixture in most homes. They get a lot of use but also cause major inconvenience when something goes wrong. It’s a hassle nobody wants to deal with, yet it happens. Toilet clogs are a part of life, but we need to note them when they are persistent or lead to bigger issues. Here, explore ways to help reduce the possibility of a clogged toilet and give the sewer pipes a break, too. 

Flush Carefully

toilet paper One of the best things a homeowner can do is learn better flushing habits and educate everyone in the home on better flushing habits, too. For example, avoid flushing these items: 

  • Wipes (including flushable wipes)
  • Diapers
  • Tissues
  • Paper towels
  • Hygiene products
  • Dental floss

These things can lead to buildup in the toilet because they are not designed to be flushed and do not properly degrade in the system as toilet paper does. Using any of these will likely do more than cause a toilet clog. At some point, it will likely lead to a clogged sewer line. 

Instead, teach the household how to properly dispose of these items and keep a trash can in the bathroom for easy disposal. 

Too Much Toilet Paper? 

toilet papaer Another common issue is using too much toilet paper for the flushing capability. While toilet paper is necessary, avoid flushing too much at once. Large wads will not dissolve as quickly as they should, which can cause a blockage or partial blockage in the sewer line. 

Here are a few helpful tips for toilet paper usage: 

  • Use smaller amounts and avoid overly large wads
  • Try thinner or biodegradable toilet paper that breaks down better
  • If more toilet paper is required, try multiple flushes in between toilet paper use

These little things might not seem like a big deal, but they will help substantially. Once again, this leads back to changing habits and informing the household. Some people simply don’t realize they are using too much or that they should add some extra flushes. 

Being aware of the potential of a clog and adjusting habits to account for toilet paper use will reduce problems.  

Protect the Sewer Line

Consistent toilet clog issues can lead to a clogged sewer line. While everyone in the home should follow these tips, proper habits are also important to protect the sewer pipes. Even proactive maintenance can help keep lines clear. 

Check out these tips: 

  • Install drain screens to catch hair or other debris
  • Don’t pour oil or grease down the drain
  • Hire regular drain cleaning and plumbing maintenance
  • Call a plumber when issues do occur

If drains seem slow or there is a persistent clogged toilet, call a plumber to help resolve the issue.

About Scott Plumbing 

Scott Plumbing is a local, family-owned plumbing company with award-winning service. They use trusted and certified technicians who are always on time and never leave a mess after they finish their work. Contact Scott Plumbing for plumbing services in Huntsville, AL.