One of the more troublesome plumbing problems that many homeowners face in Long Island is a blocked toilet and other related issues. Naturally, toilet problems tend to occur at the most inopportune times when many plumbers are not available. Whenever these types of plumbing emergencies occur, being able to hire an emergency plumber becomes a necessity. When you have a toilet problem, it may be simple enough to solve yourself. However, other issues may require contacting a professional to solve them.
One of the most common toilet problems that Plumbing Emergency Rescue gets called out on in Nassau County and Suffolk County (as well as Brooklyn and Queens) is a blockage or clog that the homeowner cannot correct. It’s important to understand what causes a clog so you can prevent this from happening in the future. In many instances, most toilet problems are not related to human waste. Here are some of the most common causes:
- Objects that cause clogs – if you have children, you probably know that they will put toys in the toiled to see if they can flush them down. Additionally, barrettes and hair clips, shampoo and conditioner caps, toilet fresheners, and toothbrushes can also fall into the toilet then get caught in the trap. (NOTE: sink and toilet traps are not intended to catch and trap items that fall down those drains. Their purpose is to prevent sewer gases from entering your home.)
- Simple blockages or clogs – toilets oftentimes clog when someone uses too much toilet paper while other sources of the problem are disposable diapers, paper towels, sanitary napkins and, and tissues. Other than toilet paper, you should never flush any of those other items down your toilet anyway.
- Bigger toilet problems – you may have more serious problems if you’re convinced that no one is putting inappropriate items down the toilet yet your toilet still clogs frequently. If you notice that your sinks are draining slowly, your home’s main drain could be clogged. This will require that you contact a professional to fix the issue.
- Major problems – these occur when roots grow into the pipes that lead to your septic system or sewage system. These pipes can also become clogged by hair, rust, and soap scum or you may need to pump out your septic system. Additionally, a broken pipe could be catching waste and other materials flowing through it. In any case, you will need to call a plumber to help solve these problems.