A toilet backup can turn a normal day into a messy disaster. If you’re facing this issue more often than you’d like, there’s likely more happening than meets the eye. It’s important to know what’s causing your toilet to back up and identify which solutions can help you flush those troubles away for good.
Flushing the Wrong Things
One of the main causes of a backed-up toilet is flushing items that shouldn’t go down there. Many people think it’s OK to flush baby wipes, paper towels, dental floss, and similar items.
However, these items don’t break down like toilet paper and can easily cause blockages in your plumbing. Over time, continuous flushing of improper materials leads to a buildup, which requires professional attention.
Good To Know
Some may think it’s common sense, but this is important nonetheless, especially if there are children in the household. While toilet paper is safe to flush, using too much at once can also cause backups. Teach children to use only what they need to be clean and sanitary and don’t make a game of emptying entire rolls into the toilet!
Low Water Pressure
If the water doesn’t flow with enough force, waste won’t move through the pipes efficiently, which leads to clogging. Low water pressure can happen due to issues with your home’s plumbing system or problems with the municipal water supply.
The adjustments you might need to make include fixing leaks or damaged pipes, installing a pressure booster pump, or contacting the local water provider for assistance.
Blocked Sewer Lines
When the main sewer line is blocked, it affects the entire plumbing system which can cause toilets to back up regularly.
Tree roots, foreign objects, or even a collapsed pipe could be the culprit behind a blocked sewer line. A professional inspection will be essential if you suspect this is the problem. With their expertise, a plumber will take steps to address the blockage and prevent further damage.
Problems With the Septic System
A full septic tank can lead to improperly processed or unprocessed waste. As a result, frequent toilet backups can be one of the signs you need to pump your septic tank. Ignoring these signs can potentially result in costly repairs, such as replacing the septic tank or cleaning up sewage backups in the home.
Worn-Out Toilet Parts
Sometimes, the problem is the toilet itself. For example, the flapper controls the flow of water into the bowl. A damaged or misaligned flapper can result in a weak flush or no flush at all.
The fill valve might also be the problem. This part regulates the amount of water that refills your toilet tank after each flush. If it’s worn out, it might not allow enough water to refill, leading to insufficient pressure for flushing waste down the drain.
Replacing old or damaged parts can restore your toilet’s performance and reduce the chances of a backup.
Your toilet backing up can be frustrating, but understanding what’s causing it can help you find a lasting solution. Whether it’s flushing the wrong items, low water pressure, a full septic tank, or worn-out parts, addressing these issues can restore a smooth-running plumbing system. Keep your toilet trouble-free with regular maintenance and professional assistance when necessary.
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