Why Does My Toilet Clog So Frequently?

In the realm of frustrating household issues, dealing with a clogged toilet ranks high on the list.

Have you ever wondered, why does my toilet clog so frequently?

The answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think. The frequent toilet clogs could be due to a myriad of reasons, from issues with the plumbing system to the use of too much toilet paper.

In this article, we will discuss the various factors that could be contributing to this problem and how to tackle them.

Reasons Your Toilet Keeps Clogging

Too Much Toilet Paper

One of the most common reasons why your toilet keeps clogging is the overuse of toilet paper. If you or someone in your home is using too much toilet paper, it can easily clog the toilet drain and lead to frequent issues.

Signs of overuse of toilet paper:

The toilet clogs soon after flushing.
You can see clumps of toilet paper in the toilet bowl.

Thick Toilet Paper

Using thick toilet paper could be another cause for a clogged toilet. While plush and soft paper feels luxurious, it’s often harder for the plumbing system to break down, leading to blockages in the toilet trap.

Something is Stuck in the Toilet

Your toilet keeps clogging could be due to objects getting stuck in the toilet trap or toilet drain. This could include anything from toys, sanitary products, or even too much toilet paper.

Signs of a stuck object:

Unusual objects found in the toilet bowl after a clog.
Toilet struggles to flush when only used for #1.
Multiple flushes required.
Plunging or toilet auger don’t fix toilet clogs.

Flushing Inappropriate Items

The flushing of inappropriate items is a major reason why your toilet keeps clogging. Flushing items like baby wipes, cotton balls, or anything else that is not toilet paper or human waste can cause a clogged toilet trap.

Blocked or Partially Blocked Drainpipe

Blockages in the drain line or sewer line can cause your toilet to keep clogging. If the toilet drain or sewer line is partially blocked, you might experience frequent toilet clogs.

Bad Drainage System

A poorly designed plumbing system could be another reason why your toilet keeps clogging. If the drain line or sewer lines aren’t installed correctly, it can lead to frequent clogs.

Some examples include:

Incorrect Sloping
Incorrect Fittings
Bad Venting
Bellied Pipes

Problem with Venting

Plumbing vents are used to balance air pressure in the pipes and let sewer gas escape. If your toilet does not have proper (or any) venting connected to it, flushed water and waste will create a vacuum as it moves down the pipe. This vacuum can cause several drainage issues, such as your toilet keeps clogging.

Common plumbing vent issues include: fixture is not connected to a plumbing vent, blocked toilet vent, inadequate venting, etc.

Signs you’ve got plumbing vent issues:

Frequent clogs
Slow draining
Gurgling sounds
Sewer odour
Water level fluctuation
Secondary plumbing fixtures backing up

Low-Flow Toilet

A low flow toilet is designed to save water. However, they often lack the necessary pressure to clear the toilet trap and toilet drain, which could lead to a toilet clogging repeatedly.

Issues with the Sewer Line

If your sewer line or drain line has a severe clog or is damaged, it could cause your toilet to keep clogging. In this case, you may need a professional for sewer repair or drain pipe repair.

Faulty Toilet Components

A faulty flapper or fill valve in the toilet bowl can also cause the toilet to keep clogging. If they don’t work properly, they can prevent the toilet bowl from emptying and refilling correctly.

Hard Water

Hard water can deposit mineral build-ups in your toilet bowl and toilet drain, causing your toilet to keep clogging.

Frequent Toilet Clog FAQ's

Is it normal for a toilet to clog occasionally?

Yes, an occasional toilet clog is normal and can often be fixed with a toilet auger or a flanged toilet plunger. However, if your toilet keeps clogging, there might be a deeper issue with your plumbing system or sewer line.

How can I prevent my toilet from clogging frequently?

To prevent frequent toilet clogs, avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper and human waste. Also, regular drain cleaning and maintenance of the plumbing system can help.

Additionally, be mindful of the amount and thickness of toilet paper you use.

How do you fix a toilet that keeps clogging?

Fixing a toilet that keeps clogging could involve several steps. This may include using a toilet auger or flanged toilet plunger, cleaning the toilet trap or drain line, or checking for a blocked toilet vent.

When a plunger or auger doesn’t do the trick, it may be best to call a trusted plumber to help.

What are the best ways to unclog a toilet myself?

To unclog a clogged toilet, you can use a toilet auger or flanged toilet plunger. If these don’t work, you may need a drain camera inspection to investigate, followed by a plumbing repair or hydrojetting.

Can flushing wipes labelled as flushable cause clogs?

Yes, despite being labelled as flushable wipes, these products don’t break down as easily as toilet paper and can cause a clogged toilet trap or clogged sewer line.

Who should I call when I'm dealing with frequently clogging toilets?

When your toilet keeps clogging, it’s best to call a professional like John The Plumber. As Ottawa’s #1 plumbing and drain cleaning company, we provide expert services like drain pipe repair, sewer repair, hydrojetting, and drain cleaning. Whether it’s a clogged sink, clogged shower, or a drain backup, we’re here to help.

Best of all, we’re the only drain cleaning company we know that offers a warranty on our drain services. For obvious reasons, most companies refrain from offering a drain clog warranty.

But at John The Plumber, we believe in putting our customers first and offering world-class service, no matter what service you need!

To book your #1 local drain cleaning company for same-day clogged drain service, call 613-227-7465!