For most households, a single toilet clog isn't an emergency that requires professional help. Simple clogs can typically be fixed with a plunger and some elbow grease. On the other hand, if the toilet keeps clogging or becomes difficult to clear, you may have one of the following issues. These issues may necessitate the help of a plumber.

1. Toilet Paper Issues

Toilet paper issues fall into two camps — using the wrong type or using too much of the right type. If you are on a septic system, for example, you need to use septic-safe toilet paper or you chance a clog developing in the line or septic tank. In any type of system, trying to put too much paper down the toilet can also lead to repeated clogs. Finding a happy medium between comfort and fewer clogs may take some experimentation.

2. Blocked Vent

Every toilet is hooked into a vent to the outside. The vent ensures sewer gases don't build up in the line and it is also necessary to ensure waste can flow down the sewer line and out of your home. If the vent becomes blocked, such as by debris or a bird's nest, then the sewer pipe won't be able to drain from the toilet. A plumber can clear the vent and install a cap that will keep debris out in the future.

3. Nonflushable Use

Wet wipes, diapers, feminine hygiene items, and similar products are sometimes labeled as flushable, but most home sewage systems aren't designed to handle them. If these items are flushed, they will slowly compact in the line and cause a clog. If you flush any of these items, then the only way to solve the issue is to start putting them into the trash. You will need to have the sewer line cleaned to remove any items still stuck in the line.

4. Line Clog

Sewer line clogs vary in severity. Often, a toilet line clog is partial, which means some effluent still flows out but occasionally solid waste gets stuck on the partial clog and causes a backup. Plunging can partially clear the clog so that it looks fixed, but the next time you use the toilet, the line clogs up again. A good line cleaning will clear the partial clog and solve the issue.

5. Pressure Issues

Low water pressure in the toilet may give the illusion of a clog because the toilet won't drain properly when flushed. Older model low flow toilets often had an issue with low pressure, so upgrading to a newer low flow toilet will solve the problem.

Contact a plumber for more help if you are constantly dealing with a clogged toilet.