How To Dissolve Toilet Paper Clog In A Sewer Drain Line2024

Have you ever wondered about the journey of toilet paper once it disappears into the depths of your toilet bowl? Clogged toilets are a common nuisance, mostly caused by toilet paper accumulation in the sewer line. Does toilet paper clog sewer lines? How long does it take for toilet paper to dissolve in pipes, and what liquid dissolves toilet paper!

How To Dissolve Toilet Paper In A Sewer Line?

From simple home remedies to eco-friendly enzymatic treatments, discover the tried-and-tested methods to dissolve toilet paper and restore your plumbing system’s optimal functionality.

Does Toilet Paper Clog Sewer Lines?

Toilet paper is specifically designed to break down and dissolve in water. Most toilet paper brands are biodegradable and engineered to dissolve quickly when exposed to water.

However, excessive use of toilet paper or the use of thicker, non-dissolvable varieties causes clogs in sewer lines. Factors such as low water flow, insufficient flushing power, or a compromised sewer line due to root intrusion or structural issues can further increase the chances of toilet paper clogs.

What Liquid Dissolves Toilet Paper?

Water is the primary liquid that dissolves toilet paper effectively. Other liquids or chemicals that dissolve toilet paper include Vinegar, bleach, baking soda, enzyme-based drain cleaners, and commercial drain cleaners.

How Long Does It Take For Toilet Paper To Dissolve In Pipes?

The exact dissolving time for toilet paper in pipes can vary based on several factors, including toilet paper thickness, water flow, temperature, and the specific composition of the toilet paper.

Thin or standard toilet paper, commonly used in households, is designed to dissolve relatively quickly. It can start breaking down within a few minutes to an hour of being flushed. Complete dissolution occurs within 1-3 hours.

Thick or quilted toilet paper, which is denser and more absorbent, takes slightly longer to dissolve compared to thin varieties. It can start breaking down within 1-12 hours after flushing.

How To Dissolve Toilet Paper In A Sewer Line?

When it comes to dissolving toilet paper in a sewer line, there are several techniques you can employ. Here are a few methods along with their proper processes and tips.

• Increased Water Flow

Run hot water down the toilet to help break down the toilet paper. Ensure a strong flush by holding down the flush lever or using a bucket of water to add extra force to the flush.

• Enzyme-Based Drain Cleaners

Purchase an enzyme-based drain cleaner specifically designed to break down organic matter, including toilet paper.

Pour the recommended amount of the drain cleaner into the toilet bowl and let it sit for the mentioned time before flushing.

• Toilet Auger or Plumbing Snake

Use a toilet auger or plumbing snake to break up and remove toilet paper clogs.

Insert the auger into the toilet drain and rotate it to dislodge the clog. Pull out the auger carefully, making sure not to damage the toilet or pipe.

Does Vinegar Dissolve Toilet Paper?

Vinegar is not good for dissolving toilet paper. Vinegar is a weak acid, consisting of acetic acid and water. While vinegar can help break down certain substances, it is not effective for dissolving paper towels.

Paper towels are designed to be absorbent and durable which makes them less prone to quick dissolution. Vinegar can cause some softening or weakening of paper towels, it cannot fully dissolve them, especially if the towels are of standard thickness.

Does Coke Dissolve Toilet Paper?

Coke cannot dissolve toilet as contains carbonic acid, which is a weak acid, and ingredients like phosphoric acid. These acids have some mild dissolving properties, but they cannot fully dissolve toilet paper.

Toilet papers are durable and resistant to quick dissolution in water. Coke can soften or partially break toilet paper, but it is not a reliable or effective method for dissolving it.

Does Dish Soap Dissolve Toilet Paper?

Dish soap cannot dissolve Toilet paper in sewer lines and septic tanks. Dish soap is primarily designed for cleaning dishes and removing grease and food residues. It can help break down and emulsify some substances, but it is not specifically formulated to dissolve paper towels.

Does Bleach Dissolve Toilet Paper?

Bleach cannot dissolve toilet paper although it contains a strong chemical compound commonly used for disinfection and laundry purposes. Don’t use bleach to dissolve toilet paper in the sewer lines.

Does Hot Water Break Down Toilet Paper Faster?

Hot water can help break down toilet paper faster compared to cold water. When toilet paper comes into contact with hot water, it softens and begins to disintegrate more readily. The heat increases the speed at which the paper fibers break apart, facilitating the dissolving process.

The hot water helps to weaken the structure of the toilet paper which makes it easier for the water flow in the plumbing system to carry away the dissolved paper particles. It is particularly useful when dealing with potential clogs or blockages caused by toilet paper.

How to Fix A Clogged Sewer line?

There are three types of sewer line clogs. Based on plumbing expertise, the given remedies will help to fix these clogs.

• Toilet Paper Clog

Use a plunger to dislodge the clog by creating a vacuum and applying pressure.

If the plunger doesn’t work, try using a toilet auger or plumbing snake to break up and remove the clog.

• Grease or Fat Clog

Boil a pot of water and pour the hot water down the drain to attempt to melt and flush away the grease or fat.

Use a plunger to create pressure and dislodge the clog.

• Tree Root Intrusion

Tree roots infiltrating sewer lines need professional intervention. A plumber can use a specialized sewer camera to locate the root intrusion and determine the extent of the damage.

Common methods for remedying tree root intrusions include removing the roots with cutting tools, applying root-killing chemicals, or in severe cases, replacing the affected section of the sewer line.

How Do You Remove Toilet Paper From A Sewer Line?

However, here are two techniques that you can try at home to remove toilet paper from your sewer line.

• Using Plunger to remove toilet paper from a sewer line.
• Use a plunger specifically designed for toilets.
• Ensure there is enough water in the toilet bowl to cover the suction cup of the plunger.
• Position the plunger over the drain opening and create a tight seal.
• Push the plunger down firmly and then pull up forcefully to create suction and pressure.
• Repeat the plunging motion several times to try and dislodge the toilet paper clog.
• If successful, the clog may be cleared, and the toilet paper can flow down the sewer line.
• Using Toilet Auger or Snake to remove toilet paper from a sewer line
• Insert the auger into the toilet drain and turn the handle clockwise to feed it into the pipe.
• Continue feeding the auger until you encounter resistance or feel the auger hook onto the clog.
• Rotate the auger handle counterclockwise to break up the clog and pull it out.
• If necessary, repeat the process until the toilet paper is removed, and the drain is clear.