Clearing out a clogged toilet is one of the most difficult and messy plumbing jobs, especially if the problem was discovered too late. Fortunately, this potentially embarrassing issue can usually be prevented if you know what caused the clog in the first place. Below are a few of the most common causes of stopped-up toilets.

4 Common Causes of Clogged Toilets

1. Trash in the Bowl

With its wide mouth and powerful suction, the toilet seems like a handy way to dispose of a cigarette butt, dental floss, cotton balls, and feminine hygiene products. However, just because these go down the drain doesn’t mean it won’t cause a problem later. To be safe, never flush anything other than toilet paper and waste down into your plumbing system.

2. Clogs in the Trap

The bend in the toilet pipe just under the bowl, called the trap, remains filled with water, providing the suction that causes your toilet to flush. Many clogs are caused by wads of toilet paper getting caught in the trap, which can usually be cleared up with a plunger or drain cleaning tool.

3. A Poorly Functioning Flapper

The flapper is the rubber mechanism that moves inside the tank when you turn the handle. If the flapper doesn’t open all the way, the flush may not be strong enough to push waste all the way through the pipes. In most cases, this can be fixed by shortening the chain that attaches the flapper to the handle.

4. Clogged Sewer Lines

If your toilet seems to be working perfectly and no foreign bodies have found their way in, the problem is likely further down in your sewer lines. Unfortunately, these issues can be difficult to detect, and it usually requires the help of a seasoned plumbing professional to repair.

Whether you’re dealing with a clogged toilet or need a new plumbing system installed, you can count on the highly trained team at the Osterwisch Company. Since 1946, they’ve been providing an extensive range of plumbing, HVAC, and electrical services to homeowners throughout Cincinnati, specializing in offering high-quality work at affordable prices. To schedule a service call and request a quote, visit their website or call (513) 791-3282, and follow their Facebook for more tips and advice from the experts.