What to Do When Your Toilet is Blocked: A Step-by-Step Guide
Toilet blockages can happen anytime and are a common issue for homeowners. They can be uncomfortable and messy and require immediate attention. However, you don’t always require the plumber immediately. In this blog, we will guide you through some simple steps to get your toilet unclogged in no time.
Key Takeaways
- Toilet blockages can be resolved with the use of simple tools like a plunger baking soda
The tools you’ll need
Before we get started it is essential to be prepared with these tools:
- Rubber Gloves
- Plunger
- Baking Soda and Vinegar (Optional)
- The Hanger for Wire Coats or the Plumbing Snake (Optional)
Step 1: Close the supply of water valve.
The first thing you need to do when confronted with a blocked toilet is to turn off water valves that is behind the toilet. This step ensures that no water can enter the tank while you work on unclogging it. The valve is normally located near on the floor of your tank, on the other side.
Step 2: Protect yourself by wearing rubber gloves.
Hands must be protected from germs or bacteria present in your toilet with rubber gloves before making use of any tools to unblock the drain.
Step 3: Use a plunger.
A plunger is without doubt the most efficient tool for cleaning toilets that are blocked. Begin by pressing down to the plunger, until all air escapes from it, then press it hard over the toilet bowl and start plunging upwards and downwards for around 20 minutes. The suction created by the movement of the plunger will assist in removing any blockages.
Tips:
- Use a firm but controlled movement.
- Make holes in the sinks or shower drains if they are near to stop the pressure of air from escape as you plunge.
Step 4: Make a baking soda and vinegar in a mixture.
If plunging doesn’t work, try this next tactic Pour half a cup of baking soda and a tablespoon of vinegar in the bowl. Allow the mixture to settle for about 15 minutes. The mixture will start to fizz but when it ceases to fizz, pour hot water down (not overly hot) to eliminate the blockage.
Step 5 5. Use an iron coat hanger made of wire or a plumbing snake.
If plunging, baking soda/vinegar methods have failed the problem, it’s time to try a wire coat hanger or plumbing snake. Straighten the coat hanger’s wire until you are left with a thin and long wire with a hook that is bent at one end or use the plumbing snake which is made specifically to clear drain clogs. Install the snake in the drain hole on your toilet, and then twist, turn, push to the point where you can feel resistance; it’s the place where the blockage is. Gently try to break up any blockages with a back-andforth motion without causing damages in your pipeline.
Note:
- Never overdo pushing or pulling actions as they could create more problems.
Step 6: Switch on the water supply and check the results.
Once you’ve eliminated any blockages, it is crucial to turn off the water supply valve that is behind your toilet. Make sure to flush it several times to make sure that 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 Question
What can I do to tell when my toilet has become blocked?
The most typical symptoms of a blocked toilet is when water levels rise to the brim after flushing. You may also notice that the water drains slowly, or you may hear sounds of gurgling coming directly from your toilet.
What should I do if my toilet is blocked?
If you believe your toilet has been blocked then avoid flushing it over again since this could cause flooding. Instead, shut off the water supply valve on the side of the toilet. Then employ a plunger to try to eliminate any blockages. If that doesn’t work, call Blocked Drains Plumbers Sydney for professional help.
Can I prevent my toilet from becoming blocked?
Yes! There are numerous things you can do to keep your toilet from being blocked. This includes avoiding 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 sink which can solidify and cause blockages to pipes.
When should I contact an experienced plumber about a blocked toilet?
If you’ve tried flushing your toilet but it still does not unblock, or you suspect that there’s an issue in your plumbing system that is causing frequent blockages, you need to get in touch with an experienced plumber such as Blocked Drains Plumbers Sydney . We have years of experience dealing with every kind of plumbing issue and can swiftly diagnose and fix any issues with the least disruption to your home.
Do I need to schedule my drains cleared?
It is recommended to have the drains cleaned out by experts like Blocked Drains Plumbers Sydney every 1-2 years. This will prevent obstructions and keep your plumbing system in good working order. If you regularly suffer from blockages to your drains or slow draining of water despite taking precautions not to clog them, then yearly cleaning would be beneficial.
These techniques are fairly simple to carry out and the majority of these items are readily available to homes. If you’re having trouble with your toilets, don’t be getting anxious after trying all the strategies, you should contact Blocked Drains Plumbers Sydney ‘s expert plumbers located in Sydney , if you’re looking for professional assistance with your blocked toilets.
Additional Information
- The Benefits of CCTV Drain Inspection: Beyond Unclogging Pipes
- Why CCTV Drain Inspections Should Be Part of Your Regular Maintenance Routine
- How CCTV Drain Inspection Can Save You Money in the Long Run
- How CCTV Drain Inspection Helps in Saving Time and Money on Plumbing Repairs?
- The Top Causes of Blocked Drains You Need to Know
- Reasons Why CCTV Drain Inspection is a Must Before Purchasing a Property
- Blocked Drain Emergency? Here�s What You Need to Know About DIY vs. Professionals
- How to Tell You Need Drain Clearing Services for Your Business
- The Importance of CCTV Drain Inspections in Preventing Expensive Property Damage
- Keep Your Home Safe by Hiring a Professional Drain Cleaning Service
