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’s unpleasant dirty, inconvenient, and messy and require immediate attention. But, you don’t necessarily have to contact an emergency plumber immediately. In this blog post we’ll walk you through the steps to clear your toilet within a matter of minutes.
Key Takeaways
- Toilet blockages can be cured by using simple tools like a plunger baking soda
The tools you’ll need
Before we begin it’s important to have these tools in your arsenal:
- Rubber Gloves
- Plunger
- Baking Soda and Vinegar (Optional)
- A Wire Coat hanger, or a Plumber Snake (Optional)
Step 1: Shut off your water source valve.
The first thing you need to do when faced with a blocked toilet is turning off the water supply valve that is behind the toilet. This ensures that no water can enter the tank as you try to get it unclogged. The valve is usually located near to the base of tank, on one side.
Step 2: Make sure you are protected by wearing rubber gloves.
Protect your hands against germs and bacteria present 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 without doubt the most efficient method for getting rid of blocked toilets. Start by pushing down upon the plunger until all air is released, then place it in the toilet bowl. Then, start to plunge quickly up and down for around 20 minutes. The suction that is created by the movement of the plunger will assist in removing any blockages.
Tips:
- Be sure to use a powerful but controlled motion.
- Cover holes around sinks or shower drains if close enough to prevent the release of pressure as you plunge.
Step 4: Make a baking soda and vinegar in a mixture.
If plunging doesn’t work you can try this other method Pour half a cup of baking soda and a cup of vinegar into the toilet bowl. Allow the mixture to settle for about 15 minutes. It will begin to bubble, and when it stops you can pour hot water down (not hot) to eliminate the obstruction.
Step 5: Use a coat hanger that is wire or a plumbing snake.
If plunging, baking soda/vinegar methods have failed the problem, it’s the right time to utilize the wire coat hanger or plumbing snake. Make sure you straighten your coat hanger’s wire until you have a long thin wire with a hook that is bent at one end. You can also use to use the plumbing snake. It is specially designed to clear drain blockages. Put the tool in the drain hole in your toilet and then twist and turn, push and pull till you experience resistance. this is where the blockage typically is. Make an effort to break any blockages with a back-andforth motion but without causing any damage to your pipeline.
Note:
- Never overdo pushing or pulling actions with force as they may result in more damage.
Step 6: Restart the water supply and test the results.
Once you’ve eliminated any blockages, it is essential to turn on the valve for water flow that is behind your toilet bowl again. 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. |
Common Questions and Answers
How can I tell when my toilet is not functioning properly?
A common symptoms of a blocked toilet is when water levels rise to the brim after flushing. There is a possibility that the water drains slowly or you hear sounds of gurgling coming from the toilet.
What can I do if the toilet is blocked?
If you suspect the toilet is clogged then avoid flushing it in the future as this could result in flooding. Instead, shut off the supply of water at the valve that is behind the toilet, and make use of a plunger and remove any blockages. If this isn’t working contact Perth Blocked Drains Plumbing for professional help.
Can I stop my toilet from getting blocked?
Yes! There are numerous options to avoid your toilet getting blocked, including avoiding flushing non-degradable products like sanitary products, wet wipes or cotton wool down the toilet. It is also important to avoid pouring grease or oil down the sink, as it can cause solidification and block pipes.
What is the best time to call an experienced plumber about a blocked toilet?
If you’ve tried splurging your toilet, but it isn’t unblocking, or you think that there’s a problem with your plumbing system that is causing frequent blockages, it’s time to seek out an experienced plumber such as Perth Blocked Drains Plumbing . We have many years of experience with various plumbing issues and are able to quickly identify and correct any issue without causing any disturbance to the home.
What is the best frequency to schedule my drains cleaned?
It is recommended that you get clean your drains by professionals like Perth Blocked Drains Plumbing 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 water despite making sure you are taking steps to prevent clogging them, then cleaning your drains every year can be beneficial.
These strategies are simple to apply as the majority of items are available in households. If you’re experiencing a toilet that is blocked, before panicking after attempting all these methods mentioned above – contact Perth Blocked Drains Plumbing ‘s expert plumbers located in Perth , if you’re looking for professional assistance for problems with your blocked toilets.
Additional Information
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- The Pros and Cons of DIY Drain Cleaning vs. Hiring a Professional
- Prevent Expensive Repairs with Regular Drain Maintenance
- Cut Costs and Hassle with Trenchless Pipe Replacement for Condos
- The Ultimate Checklist for a Smooth-flowing CCTV Drain Inspection Experience
- Why Pipe Relining is a Cost-Effective Solution for your Business� Plumbing Issues?
- Saving Time and Money with CCTV Drain Inspection for Drain Clearing
- Effective Ways to Clear a Clogged Shower Drain Naturally
- Save Money with These Simple Drain Maintenance Techniques
- Benefits of Pipe Relining for Your Blocked Drains Problem
