What to Do When Your Toilet is Blocked: A Step-by-Step Guide
Toilet blockages can occur anytime and are a common issue for homeowners. It can be unpleasant and messy and require immediate attention. But, you don’t necessarily have to call the plumber right away. In this blog post we’ll take you through the steps to unclog your toilet in no time.
Key Takeaways
- Toilet blockages can be cured by using simple tools such as plungers, baking soda
The tools you’ll need
Before we start it is essential to have these tools in your arsenal:
- Rubber Gloves
- Plunger
- Baking Soda and Vinegar (Optional)
- Wire Coat Hanger or plumbing Snake (Optional)
Step 1: Shut off the valve for water flow.
The first thing you need to do when facing a clogged toilet is to turn off water valves on the toilet. This ensures that no more water enters the tank as you are working to unblock it. The valve is normally situated near in the middle of the tank on one side.
Step 2: Make sure you are protected by wearing rubber gloves.
Hands must be protected from potential bacteria or germs found in your toilet bowl by wearing rubber gloves prior to using any tools that help in unclogging.
Step 3: Use a plunger.
A plunger is without doubt the most efficient method for clearing toilets of blockages. Start by pushing down on the plunger until all air is removed from it, then place it firmly on the hole in your toilet and begin to plunge quickly up and down for about 20 minutes. The suction generated by the movement of the plunger will help remove any blockages.
Tips:
- Use a firm but controlled movement.
- Fill in holes around sinks and shower drains if they’re close by to prevent the release of pressure as you plunge.
Step 4: Try baking soda and vinegar mix.
If plunging doesn’t work you can try this other method add half a cup of baking soda and one tablespoon of vinegar in the bowl. Let this mixture settle for 15 to 20 minutes. It will fizz a bit but when it ceases to fizz it will be poured down with hot water (not hot) to remove the blockage.
Step 5 5. Use a wire coat hanger or a plumbing snake.
If plunging, baking soda and vinegar have not worked the problem, it’s time to use an electric coat hanger or plumbing snake. The coat hanger should be straightened’s cord until you have a thin, long wire that has a hook that is bent at one end, or you can use to use the plumbing snake which is specially designed to clear drain blockages. Insert the tool into the drain hole of your toilet and then twist to turn, push, and pull till you experience a resistance. that’s where the blockage usually is. Make an effort to break any blockages using back-and-forth motion without damaging your pipe.
Note:
- Don’t push or pull actions hard as they can create more problems.
Step 6: Switch on the water supply and check the result.
Once you’ve cleared up any obstructions, it’s essential to turn on the valve for water flow that is behind your toilet bowl once more. After that, flush it a few times to make sure everything flows freely 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. |
Common Questions and Answers
What can I do to tell whether my toilet is clogged?
Some of the more typical signs of a blocked toilet is when water levels rise to the top of the bowl after flushing. It is also possible to notice that the water drains slowly, or you may hear gurgling sounds coming through the toilet.
What can I do if my bathroom is blocked?
If you suspect your toilet has been blocked, avoid trying to flush it in the future as this could cause flooding. Instead, shut off the supply of water to the valve in front of the toilet and employ a plunger to try and remove any blockages. If that doesn’t work then call Sydney Plumber Blocked Drains for professional help.
Do I have the ability to stop my toilet from getting blocked?
Yes! There are numerous things you can do to prevent your toilet from being blocked. This includes avoiding the flushing of non-degradable things like Wet wipes, sanitary products or cotton wool down the toilet. Also, avoid pouring grease or oil down the drain, which could cause solidification and block pipes.
When should I contact an experienced plumber about an unblocking toilet?
If you’ve tried flushing the toilet, but it does not unblock, or you suspect there’s a larger issue with your plumbing system that is causing frequent blockages, it’s the right time to call in an experienced professional plumber such as Sydney Plumber Blocked Drains . We’ve got years of experience dealing with various plumbing issues and can quickly diagnose and fix any issues that cause disruption to your home.
How often should I get my drains cleaned?
It is recommended to have the drains cleaned out by a professional such as Sydney Plumber Blocked Drains every 1-2 years. This can prevent obstructions and keep your plumbing system running smoothly. If, however, you often have problems with drains blocking or slow draining water, despite trying to avoid clogging them, then regular cleaning would be beneficial.
These techniques are fairly simple to apply as the majority of items are readily available to households. If you’re experiencing a toilet that is blocked, before panicking after attempting all these methods mentioned above – contact Sydney Plumber Blocked Drains ‘s expert plumbers located in Sydney , if you’re seeking professional assistance with the problem of blocked toilets.
Additional Information
- Blocked Drain Emergency? Here�s What You Need to Know About DIY vs. Professionals
- The Ultimate Guide to Unclogging Your Drain Without Professional Help
- Future-Proofing Your Plumbing System with CCTV Drain Inspection
- The Importance of CCTV Drain Inspection in Commercial Properties
- Uncovering Hidden Damage with a Professional CCTV Drain Inspection
- Natural Methods for Keeping Your Shower Drain Free of Blockages
- CCTV Drain Inspection Technology: Detecting Corrosion in Sewer Pipes
- Avoiding Clogged Drains: Tips for Homeowners
- The Ultimate Checklist for a Smooth-flowing CCTV Drain Inspection Experience
- Understanding CCTV Drain Inspection and the Benefits for Your Home