What to Do When Your Toilet is Blocked: A Step-by-Step Guide
Toilet blockages can happen at any moment and are a common problem for households. It can be unpleasant and messy and requires immediate attention. However, you don’t always have to contact an plumber immediately. In this blog we’ll take you through the steps to get your toilet unclogged within a matter of minutes.
Key Takeaways
- Toilet blockages can be resolved using simple tools and techniques such as plungers, baking soda
The Tools You’ll Need
Before we start, it’s essential to have these tools in your arsenal:
- Rubber Gloves
- Plunger
- Baking Soda and Vinegar (Optional)
- Wire Coat Hanger or Plumber Snake (Optional)
Step 1: Switch off the supply of water valve.
The first thing to do when faced with a blocked toilet is to shut off the valve for water flow on the toilet. This will ensure that no water can enter the tank as you try to get it unclogged. The valve is usually located near the bottom of the tank, on one side.
Step 2: Make sure you are protected with rubber gloves.
Protect your hands from potential bacteria or germs present in your toilet bowl with rubber gloves prior to using any tools for unclogging.
Step 3: Use a plunger.
The plunger is by far the most effective tool for clearing toilets of blockages. The first step is to gently push down upon the plunger until air escapes from it, then press it hard over the toilet bowl. Begin to plunging continuously up and down for about 20 minutes. The suction generated by the movement of the plunger will assist in removing any blockages.
Tips:
- Be sure to use a powerful but controlled movement.
- Cover holes around sinks or shower drains if they are close enough to prevent air pressure escaping as you plunge.
Step 4: Try baking soda and vinegar mix.
If plunging doesn’t work then try this alternative method to pour half a mug of baking soda as well as one teaspoon of vinegar inside the bathroom bowl. Allow the mixture to settle for approximately 15 minutes. It may fizz, and when it stops, pour hot water down (not boiling) to remove the blockage.
Step 5 Step 5: Use a coat hanger with wire or a 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. Straighten the coat hanger’s cable until you have a thick, thin wire that has hooks that are bent at one end, or you can use the plumbing snake. It was specially designed to clear drain clogs. Insert the tool into the drain hole on your toilet, and then twist around, twist, push to the point where you can feel resistance. that’s where the blockage usually is. Make an effort to break any obstructions using a back-and-forth movement without damaging your pipe.
Note:
- Be careful not to push or pull actions hard as they can result in more damage.
Step 6: Turn on the water supply and test the results.
After you have cleared any blockages, it is essential to turn on your water valve that is behind the toilet bowl. You should flush it a couple of 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?
A common symptoms of a blocked toilet is when the water level rises to the top after flushing. You may also notice that the water drains in a slow manner, or hear the sound of gurgling from the toilet.
What should I do if my toilet is blocked?
If you suspect the toilet is blocked be sure to avoid flushing it over again since this could cause flooding. Instead, shut off the supply of water valve behind the toilet and make use of a plunger to remove any obstruction. If this fails contact Blocked Drains Plumbers Sydney for professional help.
Do I have the ability to stop my toilet from becoming blocked?
Yes! There are several ways to keep your toilet from getting blocked, including avoiding flushing non-degradable products like sanitary products, wet wipes or cotton wool into the toilet. Also, avoid using oil or grease in the drain, which could cause solidification and cause blockages to pipes.
What is the best time to call an experienced plumber about the problem of a toilet that is blocked?
If you’ve tried flushing into your toilet, but it won’t unblock or you suspect that there’s a problem with your plumbing system causing frequent blockages, you need to call in a professional plumber, such as Blocked Drains Plumbers Sydney . We have many years of experience dealing with all kinds of plumbing problems that we can quickly detect and resolve any issues with the least disruption to your home.
How often should I have my drains cleared?
It is suggested that you have clean your drains by experts like Blocked Drains Plumbers Sydney every 1-2 years. This will help prevent blockages and help keep your plumbing system operating smoothly. If, however, you often suffer from blockages to your drains or slow drainage of water despite making sure you are taking steps to prevent clogging the drains, then annual cleaning is beneficial.
These strategies are simple to carry out and the majority of these items are readily available in households. When facing blocked toilets before being anxious after attempting the methods mentioned above – contact Blocked Drains Plumbers Sydney ‘s expert plumbers located in Sydney , if you’re searching for professional help with problems with your blocked toilets.
Additional Information
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- The Dangers of Using Chemical Drain Unblockers
- Preventing Clogs and Blockages: Best Practices for Maintaining Your Drains
- Blocked Drain Emergency? Here�s What You Need to Know About DIY vs. Professionals
- Protect Your Condo's Property Value with Long-Lasting Trenchless Pipe Relining
- A Comprehensive Overview of CCTV Drain Inspection for Your Home
- Why CCTV Drain Inspections Should Be Part of Your Regular Maintenance Routine
- The Benefits of Using CCTV Drain Inspection for Pipe Relining Services
- Keep Your Home Safe by Hiring a Professional Drain Cleaning Service
