One of the most frustrating things about a partially clogged toilet is that, technically, you can still use it. Except, it almost feels like you have a devil and an angel on your shoulder. The devil says, “Do it, use it, it's not completely clogged.” The angel says, “Don't use it, even though it's partially clogged, it will still cause an issue.” Ultimately, you find yourself torn between the immediate convenience and the looming consequences of a potential clog.
In the end, a partially clogged toilet isn't a major issue. And luckily, it's easy enough to unclog. However, when you can't unclog your toilet on your own, our Edmonton plumber is always one phone call away to handle your blocked toilet. At Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Edmonton, our mission is to ensure that every homeowner experiencing a toilet problem has the proper tips and knowledge to address the issue quickly and effectively.
In this blog, we will highlight the major signs of a partially clogged toilet and guide how to address them. Whether the clog is caused by using too much toilet paper or an issue with the drain pipe, recognizing these specific signs can save you time and money on more significant plumbing problems down the line. Stay tuned as we explore the signs of a partially clogged toilet.
Why Do Toilets Get Partially Clogged?
The million-dollar question: What clogs a toilet? Besides going a little overboard on Taco Tuesday, several reasons and items can cause a toilet to clog. As you can imagine, a toilet is clogged with excess waste and toilet paper.
When you press the flush button on your toilet, it activates a lever in the toilet tank, which in turn lifts a rubber stopper at the bottom of the tank. As soon as the stopper releases water from the tank into the toilet bowl, the rush will push the waste through a trap and into the toilet drain. But, when there is too much toilet paper (or waste), water won't flow freely, and what's inside the bowl can't flush down the toilet.
But toilets can become clogged for other reasons than too much TP and waste. Some reasons are not even related to your personal habits, but your plumbing system. For example, when you have a clogged sewer line, your toilet is likely backing up water, indicating a partial clog. This can be caused by tree roots that infiltrate the sewer line or an accumulation of grease and other debris. In these cases, you'd need to call a plumber for an inspection and sewer line repair.
Another reason your toilet may get clogged is from a blocked toilet trap. This component is designed to hold water and prevent sewer gases from infiltrating your bathroom space. This specific area is particularly prone to clogs, often caused by excessive toilet paper or non-flushable items. And finally, when the toilet tank won't fill properly, or the toilet bowl's water level is too low, there won't be enough water to flush the contents of the bowl effectively.
Top Warning Signs of a Partially Clogged Toilet
Now that you know why your toilet can easily get clogged, it's time you know the signs of a partially clogged toilet. Have your toilet plunger on hand, as it will be your trusty sidekick in tackling this particular issue.
- Slow drains after you flush: This is the most common and prominent sign of a partially clogged toilet. When you have blockages in either the toilet trap or the drain line, it causes the water in the bowl to drain slowly after flushing.
- Increased water level in the toilet bowl: It's never a settling feeling when you go to flush the toilet and see the water level increasing, rather than decreasing. It's happened to every homeowner at least once, but that's because there is a reason. The most common cause of this issue is a clog in either the toilet drain or your plumbing system, ultimately preventing waste from being properly flushed. You will know you have a partially clogged toilet when the water level rises, but it may not necessarily overflow.
- Partial or weak flush: If you have a partial clog in your toilet, you may need to flush the toilet multiple times to remove the waste. When you have to press the button or lever a couple of times, it's because the toilet isn't generating enough pressure to clear the bowl effectively. This is also common if your toilet isn't clogged but won't flush properly.
- Recurring toilet clogs: If you're constantly unclogging your toilet with a plunger, it's a sign that there is a partial clog or a deeper issue within your plumbing system. Drain cleaning services are an effective way to remove recurring clogs in your plumbing system.
- Gurgling sounds: It's completely normal for there to be some sort of gurgle after flushing once in a while. However, when your toilet groans excessively, it's because there are blockages in the system that disrupt airflow in the pipes.
- Water backs up: You expect water to flow away once you press the flush. So, when you notice water backing up into the bowl after flushing, this is a major sign of a partially clogged toilet.
Pro Tips! To resolve these issues, some household remedies may be beneficial. First, put your plunger into the toilet to create suction. This will force water to dislodge the clog and push it down the drain. If using a plunger doesn't work, take some warm (not boiling) water to dislodge the clog. You can also use the age-old method of mixing one cup of baking soda and vinegar, which should create a chemical reaction. Let the toilet sit for a moment, and then flush it to see if your methods were effective. If not, it's best to let a plumber come in and deal with the clog. Our service professionals come equipped with high-quality snakes and toilet augers to assist in the process.
How to Prevent Having a Toilet Partially Clogged
Preventing toilet clogs is simple, especially when it comes to preventing partially clogged toilets. Here's what you can do:
- Never flush anything but toilet paper down your toilet. That includes personal hygiene products, baby wipes, paper towels, cotton balls, and most importantly, grease.
- Avoid using chemical drain cleaners. Instead, opt for professional drain cleaning as our services won't corrode your pipes.
- Use only as much toilet paper as needed.
Need Help with a Partially Clogged Toilet? Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Edmonton is One Phone Call Away
Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Edmonton is one phone call away when you need help with a partially clogged toilet. Now that you are well aware of the signs indicating a partial blockage, hopefully, you will be able to unclog a toilet on your own. And if not, contact our exceptional customer service team today, and we can get started on the process.
We proudly serve Edmonton and the surrounding areas of Sherwood Park, St. Albert, Spruce Grove, and beyond.
