Use Roto-Rooter Products to Help Prevent Toilet Clogs

A backed up toilet is a nasty chore to deal with. Sometimes the problems are immediate. At other times, the problems stem from tree roots in the sewer line. From effective plunging to using Roto-Rooter products that help retard tree root growth, there are several things you can do to keep the toilet working properly. Tips for handling toilet problems include the following:

• Stop the water from flowing into the toilet bowl
• Plunge with correct technique
• Use an auger for tougher clogs
• Use the garbage can instead of the toilet
• Destroy roots that clog the main sewer line

Water

Sometimes a quick plunge can dislodge an obstruction in a clogged toilet and prevent water from spilling over the bowl. However, it doesn't always work. In these situations, it is important to stop the water from getting into the toilet. Following are three different methods you can use:

• Reach inside the tank and push down the flapper to cover the opening in the bottom of the tank.
• Turn off the water supply to the toilet. The shut-off valve is usually located behind the toilet near the place where the pipe comes out of the wall.
• Turn off the water supply to the entire building. While this is a drastic step, sometimes drastic measures are required.

Plunging Techniques

The most important thing to remember when plunging is to keep a tight seal over the hole in the bottom of the bowl. Keep this seal the entire time you are plunging. A tight seal is required in order to create a vacuum that will move the contents of the pipe back and forth with the plunging action.

Toilet Augers

If the toilet clog is really tough, you may need to use a toilet auger. The drain snake has a coil on the end that can help dislodge objects in the pipes such as human waste and toys. Push the auger into the toilet as far as it will go. Once the pipe is all the way inserted, crank the handle clockwise to send the cable deeper into the pipes. The rotating motion allows the coil to work on the clog.

Tree Roots

Believe it or not, tree roots in the main sewer line can cause your toilet to back up. If you have a toilet that backs up all the time, you may have tree root problems. If this is the case, you should notice that the other drains in the house don't work well, either. If you have problems with tree roots, Roto-Rooter plumbers can help clear out the sewer line by using an auger to cut through the roots. Once the roots are removed, use a product such as Root Destroyer to retard the new growth process.