What to Do When Your Toilet is Blocked: A Step-by-Step Guide
Toilet blockages can happen at any time, and are a common issue for homeowners. It can be unpleasant, messy, and inconvenient, and require immediate attention. But, you don’t necessarily require the plumber right away. In this blog post we’ll take you through the ways to clean your toilet in no time.
Key Takeaways
- Toilet blockages can be resolved with simple tools and methods such as plungers, baking soda
The tools you’ll need
Before we get started it is essential to be prepared with these tools at hand:
- Rubber Gloves
- Plunger
- Baking Soda and Vinegar (Optional)
- Hook for the Wire Coat or Plumber Snake (Optional)
Step 1: Switch off the water supply valve.
The first step you must do when facing a clogged toilet is to shut off the water supply valve that is behind the toilet. This is to ensure that no water will enter the tank as you are working to unblock it. The valve is normally found near in the middle of the tank, on one side.
Step 2: Guard yourself with rubber gloves.
Hands must be protected against germs and bacteria found in your toilet bowl with rubber gloves before using any tools that help in unclogging.
Step 3: Use a plunger.
A plunger is without doubt the most effective tool for cleaning toilets that are blocked. The first step is to gently push down to the plunger, until all air is released, then press it hard over the toilet bowl. Then, start to plunge vigorously up and down for approximately 20 minutes. The suction generated by plunging back and forth will help remove any blockages.
Tips:
- Ensure you use a forceful but controlled motion.
- Fill in holes around sinks and shower drains if close by to prevent the pressure of air from escape as you plunge.
Step 4: Make a baking soda and vinegar mix.
If plunges don’t work you can try this other method Pour half a cup of baking soda and one tablespoon of vinegar in the bowl. Let this mixture settle for approximately 15 minutes. It may fizz but when it ceases to fizz then pour boiling water down (not at a boil) to remove the obstruction.
Step 5 Step 5: Use a coat hanger with wire or plumbing snake.
If both plunging and baking soda or vinegar methods have failed and you are in need of a solution, it’s time to try an electric coat hanger or plumbing snake. You can straighten out the coat hanger’s wire until you are left with a thin and long wire with an angled hook at one end. You can also use the plumbing snake. It is specially designed to clear drain blockages. Insert the tool into the drain hole of your toilet and twist to turn, push, and pull till you experience resistance; this is where the blockage typically is. Gently try to break up any blockages with a back-andforth motion but without causing any damage to your pipe.
Note:
- Don’t push or pull actions as they could result in more damage.
Step 6: Switch on the water supply and check the result
Once you’ve cleared up any obstructions, it’s important to switch on the valve for water flow in the toilet bowl. You should flush it a couple of times to ensure that everything is running smoothly!
| 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 can I tell when my toilet is not functioning properly?
Some of the more typical indicators of a clogged toilet is when the water fills up to the brim after flushing. You may also notice that the water drains slowly, or you might hear sounds of gurgling coming directly from your toilet.
What should I do if the toilet is blocked?
If you think the toilet is blocked and you are unable to flush it, do not attempt to flush it in the future as this could result in flooding. Instead, shut off water flow valve on the side of the toilet. Then utilize a plunger to clear any obstructions. If this doesn’t work then call Perth Blocked Drains Plumbing for professional help.
Can I stop my toilet from getting blocked?
Yes! There are several options to stop your toilet from becoming blocked. One of them is to avoid flushing non-degradable items such as sanitary products, wet wipes or cotton wool down the toilet. You should also avoid spilling oil or grease down the sink which can solidify and cause blockages to pipes.
What is the best time to call a professional plumber to resolve the problem of a toilet that is blocked?
If you’ve tried flushing your toilet but it still won’t unblock or you suspect that there’s a problem with your plumbing system that is causing frequent blockages, it’s the right time to call in an experienced professional plumber such as Perth Blocked Drains Plumbing . We’ve got years of experience in dealing with all kinds of plumbing problems and can quickly diagnose and fix any issues with minimal disruption to your home.
Do I need to get my drains cleared?
It’s recommended that you have your drains cleaned by professionals like Perth Blocked Drains Plumbing every 1-2 years. This will reduce the chance of obstructions and keep your plumbing system operating smoothly. However, if you frequently experience drain blockages or slow drainage of water despite trying to avoid clogging the drains, then annual cleaning is beneficial.
These methods are relatively easy to carry out in the majority of cases, and these products are easily available in households. If you’re having trouble with your toilets, don’t be being anxious after attempting the strategies, you should contact Perth Blocked Drains Plumbing ‘s expert plumbers located in Perth , if you’re in search of professional assistance with those blocked toilets.
Additional Information
- The Pros and Cons of DIY Drain Cleaning vs. Hiring a Professional
- The Benefits of CCTV Drain Inspections: How Often Should You Carry Them Out?
- When to Call a Professional for Blocked Drains: A Guide
- Cut Costs and Hassle with Trenchless Pipe Replacement for Condos
- Understanding CCTV Drain Inspection and the Benefits for Your Home
- When Should You Call A Professional To Clear Your Blocked Drain?
- Saving Time and Money with CCTV Drain Inspection for Drain Clearing
- The Advantage of CCTV Drain Inspection in Detecting Root Infiltration Early
- The Ultimate Guide to Drain Clearing Services
- Preventing Clogs and Blockages: Best Practices for Maintaining Your Drains
