What to Do When Your Toilet is Blocked: A Step-by-Step Guide
Toilet blockages can occur anytime and are a common problem for households. They can be uncomfortable messy and uninspiring and require immediate attention. However, you don’t have to call a plumber immediately. In this blog post we’ll guide you through simple steps to unclog your toilet within a matter of minutes.
Key Takeaways
- Toilet blockages can be resolved using simple tools and techniques like a plunger baking soda
The tools you’ll need
Before we get started we must be prepared with these tools:
- Rubber Gloves
- Plunger
- Baking Soda and Vinegar (Optional)
- Wire Coat Hanger or Plumber Snake (Optional)
Step 1: Turn off the water supply valve.
The first thing you should do when confronted with a blocked toilet is shutting off the supply of water behind the toilet. This step ensures that no water can enter the tank during your try to get it unclogged. The valve is usually situated at the bottom of the tank, on the other side.
Step 2: Guard yourself by wearing rubber gloves.
Hands must be protected from potential bacteria or germs found in your toilet bowl by wearing rubber gloves prior to making use of any tools to unblock the drain.
Step 3: Use a plunger.
A plunger is undoubtedly the most effective tool to use for clearing toilets of blockages. First, push down gently onto the plunger till all air is released, then place it in the toilet bowl. Begin to plunging vigorously up and down for approximately 20 seconds. The suction created by plunging back and forth can help clear any obstructions.
Tips:
- Ensure you use a forceful but controlled motion.
- Make holes in the sinks or shower drains if they’re close enough to stop the release of pressure as you plunge.
Step 4: Make a baking soda with vinegar.
If you’re not able to get the plunge working then try this alternative method Pour half a cup of baking soda as well as one tablespoon of vinegar in the bowl. Let the mixture sit for around 15 minutes. It will fizz a bit before it slows down you can pour hot water down (not boiling) to flush out the obstruction.
Step 5: Use a wire coat hanger or plumbing snake.
If plunging, baking soda/vinegar methods have failed to clear the clog, then it’s time to try an electric coat hanger or plumbing snake. Make sure you straighten your coat hanger’s wire until have a long thin wire that has a hook bent at one end or use it as a plumbing snake that is made specifically to clear drain clogs. Place the snake into the drain hole of your toilet and twist around, twist, push or pull until you feel resistance. there’s usually a blockage occurs. Try to break up the blockages by using a back and forth motion without causing damages in your pipe.
Note:
- Don’t push or pull actions hard as they can create more problems.
Step 6: Turn on the water supply and verify the results.
Once you’ve eliminated any obstructions, it’s crucial to turn off your water valve in the toilet bowl. After that, flush it a few times to ensure that the water is flowing freely!
| 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 Question
How do I know when my toilet has become blocked?
One of the most obvious symptoms of a blocked toilet is when the water level rises to the top of the toilet after flushing. There is a possibility that the water drains slowly, or you might hear the sound of gurgling through the toilet.
What can I do if my toilet is blocked?
If you suspect that your toilet is blocked, avoid trying to flush it once more as this could cause flooding. Instead, shut off the supply of water at the valve behind the toilet and make use of a plunger to remove any obstruction. If this isn’t working contact Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbers for professional help.
How can I stop my toilet from becoming blocked?
Yes! There are a variety of things you can do to keep your toilet from getting blocked, including avoiding flushing non-degradable items such as Wet wipes, sanitary products or cotton wool into the toilet. It is also important to avoid pouring grease or oil down the drain, which could cause solidification and block pipes.
What is the best time to call a professional plumber to resolve a toilet that has become blocked?
If you’ve tried to flush the toilet, but it isn’t unblocking, or you think there’s a bigger issue with the plumbing system, causing frequent blockages, you need to contact an experienced professional plumber such as Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbers . We have years of experience dealing with any plumbing problem and can swiftly diagnose and address any issues with the least impact on your property.
What is the best frequency to get my drains cleaned?
It is recommended that you get the drains cleaned out by professionals like Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbers every 1-2 years. This will reduce the chance of blockages and help keep your plumbing system functioning smoothly. However, if you frequently experience drain blockages or slow drainage of water despite trying to avoid clogging them, then yearly cleaning can be beneficial.
These strategies are simple to execute, and most of these items are readily available to households. If you’re having trouble with your toilets, don’t be worrying after trying the strategies, you should contact Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbers ‘s expert plumbers located in Sydney , if you’re searching for professional help with the problem of blocked toilets.
Additional Information
- CCTV Drain Inspection: A Cost-Effective Solution for Unblocking Blocked Drains
- When to Call a Professional for Blocked Drains: A Guide
- Blocked Drain Emergency? Here’s What You Need to Know About DIY vs. Professionals
- Saving Time and Money with CCTV Drain Inspection for Drain Clearing
- Reasons Why CCTV Drain Inspection is a Must Before Purchasing a Property
- The Benefits of CCTV Drain Inspections for Blocked Drains and Corroded Pipes
- DIY Methods for Clearing Blocked Drains at Home
- Why Condo Complexes are Switching to Trenchless Pipe Relining Methods
- When to Schedule a Professional Drain Cleaning Service
- From Clearing Clutter to Securing Access Points: The Preparations You Need for a Successful CCTV Drain Inspection
