Toilets / Urinals

Most plumbing issues are rather unsavory but none can really compare to the common clogged toilet in terms of the disgust factor. The toilet is typically clogged with unpleasant fecal matter which makes working to unclog it a test to see if an individual has an iron stomach. Toilet and urinal repairs should be done as quickly as possible in order to minimize the discomfort and unpleasantness of the task. Here is some general information regarding toilet and urinal issues that may help:

The main cause of clogs is debris getting stuck in the pipes, blocking water flow and preventing the toilet from successfully flushing. Personal hygiene products, socks, towels and even paper towels are common culprits. Never flush a paper towel because while they look similar to toilet paper they are actually much more substantial and take a long time to fully break down.

If the toilet or urinal won’t drain but the sink will, it is likely a clog in the toilet trap. However, if the sink is also not draining well that is indicative of a more serious problem in a central location like an obstruction in the main sewer line. Clogs in the main sewer line require the immediate attention of a trained plumbing professional. Causes of clogs in the main sewer line include a build up of waste in the form of a clog or tree roots which have punctured the sewage pipes.

If you are suddenly faced with a stubborn clog and you have children, an object may be lodged in the trap of the toilet. Children often lack a working understanding of how toilets work and will flush small toys and other objects down a toilet, thinking that they simply disappear.

A plunger will relieve most clogs in urinals and toilets but if you find yourself plunging away clogs all the time there could be an underlying problem that needs to be addressed. By calling in a professional plumber to inspect the sewer pipes connected to the toilet or urinal, the underlying issue may be rectified and fixed permanently.