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 unpleasant dirty, inconvenient, and messy and requires immediate attention. However, you don’t have to call an plumber immediately. In this blog post we’ll guide you through simple steps to get your toilet unclogged in no time.
Key Takeaways
- Toilet blockages can be solved with simple tools and methods like a plunger baking soda
The Tools You’ll Need
Before we begin, it’s essential 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 valve for water flow.
The first thing you need to do when confronted with a blocked toilet is turning off the valve for water flow on the toilet. This will ensure that no water can enter the tank as you are working to unblock it. The valve is normally located near the bottom of the tank on one side.
Step 2: Protect yourself by wearing rubber gloves.
Hands must be protected from germs or bacteria that may be present in your toilet with rubber gloves prior to using any tools for unclogging.
Step 3: Use a plunger.
A plunger is undoubtedly the most efficient method for clearing toilets of blockages. Begin by pressing down on the plunger until all air is removed from it, then press it hard over the toilet and begin to plunge vigorously up and down for approximately 20 minutes. The suction caused by the movement of the plunger will remove any blockages.
Tips:
- Use a firm but controlled movement.
- Cover holes around sinks or shower drains if they’re close enough to prevent air pressure escaping as you plunge.
Step 4: Try baking soda with vinegar.
If plunges don’t work then try this alternative method add half a cup of baking soda and 1 tablespoon of vinegar in the bowl. The mixture should sit for about 15 minutes. It will begin to bubble but when it ceases to fizz you can pour hot water down (not at a boil) to eliminate the obstruction.
Step 5 Step 5: Use a coat hanger that is wire or a plumbing snake.
If both plunging and baking soda and vinegar have not worked and you are in need of a solution, it’s the time to employ a wire coat hanger, or plumbing snake. You can straighten out the coat hanger’s cable until you are left with a thin and long wire that has a hook bent at one end. You can also use it as a plumbing snake which was made specifically to clear drain clogs. Insert the tool into the drain hole on your toilet, and twist around, twist, push at the same time until you sense a resistance. that’s where the blockage usually is. Gently try to break up any obstructions using a back-and-forth movement without causing damage to your pipe.
Note:
- Don’t push or pull actions as they could result in more damage.
Step 6: Restart the water supply and test the result
After you have cleared any obstructions, it’s vital to turn on your water valve behind your toilet bowl once more. Make sure to flush it several times to make sure all water flows smoothly now!
| 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
What can I do to tell when my toilet is not functioning properly?
Some of the more obvious indications of a toilet that is blocked is when water rises to the brim after flushing. It is also possible to notice that the water drains in a slow manner, or hear gurgling sounds coming out of the bathroom.
What should I do if my bathroom is blocked?
If you suspect that your toilet has been blocked, avoid trying to flush it over again since this could cause flooding. Instead, turn off water flow valve on the side of the toilet. Then utilize a plunger to eliminate any blockages. If this doesn’t work contact Sydney Plumber Blocked Drains for professional help.
Can I prevent my toilet from getting blocked?
Yes! There are numerous actions you can take to avoid your toilet being blocked. This includes avoiding flushing items that are not biodegradable, such as sanitary products, wet wipes or cotton wool in the toilet. You should also avoid using oil or grease in the sink as it will cause it to solidify and cause blockages to pipes.
What is the best time to call a professional plumber for an unblocking toilet?
If you’ve tried flushing your toilet but it still isn’t unblocking, or you think that there’s an issue in your plumbing system that is causing frequent blockages, it’s the right time to get in touch with an experienced professional plumber such as Sydney Plumber Blocked Drains . We have years of experience with every kind of plumbing issue that we can quickly detect and correct any issue that cause impact on your property.
What is the best frequency to get my drains cleaned?
It’s recommended that you have your drains cleaned by experts like Sydney Plumber Blocked Drains every 1-2 years. This can prevent obstructions and keep your plumbing system operating smoothly. If, however, you often have problems with drains blocking or slow draining water, despite taking precautions not to clog the drains, then annual cleaning could be beneficial.
These methods are relatively easy to execute in the majority of cases, and these products are easily available in homes. If you’re having trouble with your toilets, don’t be getting anxious after trying all the strategies, you should contact Sydney Plumber Blocked Drains ‘s expert plumbers located in Sydney , if you’re searching for professional assistance for those blocked toilets.
Additional Information
- The Dangers of Using Chemical Drain Unblockers
- Cut Costs and Hassle with Trenchless Pipe Replacement for Condos
- Why CCTV Drain Inspections Should Be Part of Your Regular Maintenance Routine
- Future-Proofing Your Plumbing System with CCTV Drain Inspection
- How to Prevent Your Drains from Getting Blocked
- 5 Reasons Why You Should Hire Professionals for Drain Cleaning Services
- Natural Methods for Keeping Your Shower Drain Free of Blockages
- Understanding CCTV Drain Inspection and the Benefits for Your Home
- CCTV Drain Inspection Technology: Detecting Corrosion in Sewer Pipes
- Uncovering Hidden Damage with a Professional CCTV Drain Inspection
