What to Do When Your Toilet is Blocked: A Step-by-Step Guide
Toilet blockages can happen at any time and are a common problem for households. They can be uncomfortable dirty, inconvenient, and messy, and require immediate attention. However, you don’t require an emergency plumber immediately. In this blog, we will guide you through the steps to get your toilet unclogged in no time.
Key Takeaways
- Toilet blockages can be cured with the use of simple tools like a plunger baking soda
The Tools You’ll Need
Before we begin it’s important to be prepared with these tools at hand:
- Rubber Gloves
- Plunger
- Baking Soda and Vinegar (Optional)
- The Hanger for Wire Coats or the Plumber Snake (Optional)
Step 1: Close the supply of water valve.
The first step you must do when faced with a blocked toilet is turning off water valves that is behind the toilet. This will ensure that no water will enter the tank as you try to get it unclogged. The valve is usually found near the bottom of the tank on the other side.
Step 2: Guard yourself by wearing rubber gloves.
Hands must be protected from any germs or bacteria that may be present in your toilet with rubber gloves before making use of any tools to unblock the drain.
Step 3: Use a plunger.
The plunger is by far the most effective tool for cleaning toilets that are blocked. Start by pushing down onto the plunger till all air is released, then press firmly over the toilet and begin to plunge vigorously up and down for approximately 20 seconds. The suction caused when you plunge back and forth will help remove any blockages.
Tips:
- Be sure to use a powerful but controlled motion.
- Place holes around sinks or shower drains if near to stop the air from escaping when you plunge.
Step 4: Try baking soda with vinegar.
If the plunge doesn’t work Try this method - pour half a cup of baking soda and a cups of white vinegar to the toilet. The mixture should sit for around 15 minutes. It will begin to bubble but when it ceases to fizz it will be poured down with hot water (not at a boil) to flush out the obstruction.
Step 5: Use a coat hanger that is wire or plumbing snake.
If plunging, baking soda and vinegar have not worked the problem, it’s the time to employ the wire coat hanger or plumbing snake. You can straighten out the coat hanger’s wire until you are left with a thin and long wire that has a hook bent at one end, or you can use the plumbing snake that was designed specifically for clearing drain clogs. Put the tool in the drain hole of your toilet and then twist to turn, push, at the same time until you sense a resistance. there’s usually a blockage occurs. Try to break up any blockages using back-and-forth motion without causing damage to the pipeline.
Note:
- Never overdo pushing or pulling actions with force as they may result in more damage.
Step 6: Turn on the water supply and check the results.
Once you’ve cleared up any obstructions, it’s essential to turn on the supply of water in your toilet bowl again. After that, flush it a few times to ensure that everything is running smoothly!
| Tools | Description |
|---|---|
| Rubber Gloves | Hand protection from potential bacteria or germs present in the toilet bowl. |
| Plunger | Most effective tool for clearing up blocked toilets. Press firmly over the hole in your toilet bowl and plunge vigorously up and down for about 20 seconds. |
| Baking Soda and Vinegar | Mixture to use if plunging doesn’t work. Pour half a cup of baking soda and one cup of vinegar into the toilet bowl. Let this mixture settle for about 15 minutes, then pour hot water down (not boiling) to flush out the blockage. |
| Wire Coat Hanger or Plumbing Snake | Tools to use if both plunging and baking soda/vinegar methods have failed. Straighten the wire coat hanger until you have a long thin wire with a hook bent at one end or use the plumbing snake, which is designed specifically for clearing drain clogs. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell when my toilet has become blocked?
One of the most obvious signs of a blocked toilet is when the water fills up to the top of the bowl after flushing. It is also possible to notice that water drains away in a slow manner, or hear sounds of gurgling coming directly from your toilet.
What can I do if my bathroom is blocked?
If you suspect your toilet has been blocked be sure to avoid flushing it once more as this could result in flooding. Instead, shut off water flow valve behind the toilet and use a plunger to try to eliminate any blockages. If this isn’t working then call Sydney Plumber Blocked Drains for professional help.
Can I stop my toilet from getting blocked?
Yes! There are a variety of actions you can take to stop your toilet from becoming blocked. One of them is to avoid flushing non-degradable products like sanitary products, wet wipes or cotton wool in the toilet. You should also avoid the practice of pouring oil or grease down the drain, which could cause solidification and cause blockages to pipes.
What is the best time to call a professional plumber to resolve a toilet that has become blocked?
If you’ve tried splurging your toilet, but it doesn’t clear or you believe that there’s an issue in your plumbing system causing frequent blockages, you need to seek out an experienced professional plumber such as Sydney Plumber Blocked Drains . We’ve had years of experience in dealing with every kind of plumbing issue and can quickly diagnose and correct any issue with the least interruption to your house.
How often should I get my drains cleared?
It is suggested that you have clean your drains by a professional like Sydney Plumber Blocked Drains every 1-2 years. This can prevent blockages and ensure that your plumbing system in good working order. However, if you frequently experience drain blockages or slow drainage of water despite trying to avoid clogging them, then yearly cleaning would be beneficial.
These strategies are simple to carry out and the majority of these products are easily available in households. If you’re facing a blocked toilet, prior to panicking after attempting all these methods mentioned above – contact Sydney Plumber Blocked Drains ‘s expert plumbers located in Sydney , if you’re searching for professional help with those blocked toilets.
Additional Information
- How to Prevent Your Drains from Getting Blocked
- Understanding CCTV Drain Inspection and the Benefits for Your Home
- Future-Proofing Your Plumbing System with CCTV Drain Inspection
- Blocked Drain Emergency? Here�s What You Need to Know About DIY vs. Professionals
- The Ultimate Guide to Unclogging Your Drain Without Professional Help
- 5 Reasons Why You Should Hire Professionals for Drain Cleaning Services
- The Ultimate Checklist for a Smooth-flowing CCTV Drain Inspection Experience
- Avoiding Clogged Drains: Tips for Homeowners
- Cut Costs and Hassle with Trenchless Pipe Replacement for Condos
- Save Money and Time with Preventative Drain Care Practices
