What to Do When Your Toilet is Blocked: A Step-by-Step Guide
Toilet blockages can happen at any time and can be a frequent household problem. It’s unpleasant dirty, inconvenient, and messy and require immediate attention. However, you do not always have to contact an emergency plumber immediately. In this blog we’ll walk you through some simple steps to unclog your toilet in no time.
Key Takeaways
- Toilet blockages are easily remediated by using simple tools like a plunger baking soda
The Tools You’ll Need
Before we start we must have these tools in your arsenal:
- Rubber Gloves
- Plunger
- Baking Soda and Vinegar (Optional)
- Wire Coat Hanger or plumbing Snake (Optional)
Step 1: Shut off your water source valve.
The first thing you need to do when facing a clogged toilet is turning off the water supply valve behind the toilet. This will ensure that no water will enter the tank during your try to get it unclogged. The valve is typically situated near the bottom of the tank on one side.
Step 2: Guard yourself with rubber gloves.
Your hands must be protected from germs or bacteria that may be present in your toilet by wearing rubber gloves prior to using any tools that help in unclogging.
Step 3: Use a plunger.
A plunger is the most efficient tool for cleaning toilets that are blocked. Begin by pressing down to the plunger, until all air is evacuated from it. then press it hard over the toilet bowl and start plunging upwards and downwards for about 20 minutes. The suction caused by the movement of the plunger can help clear any obstructions.
Tips:
- Use a firm but controlled motion.
- Place holes around sinks or shower drains, if they are near to stop the release of pressure as you plunge.
Step 4: Test baking soda and vinegar mix.
If plunging doesn’t work then try this alternative method add half a cup of baking soda and one cup of vinegar into the toilet 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 overly hot) to remove the blockage.
Step 5: Use a coat hanger that is wire or plumbing snake.
If both plunging and baking soda and vinegar have not worked and you are in need of a solution, it’s the time to employ a wire coat hanger or plumbing snake. You can straighten out the coat hanger’s wire until are left with a thin and long wire with a hook bent at one end, or you can use your plumbing snake that is specially designed to clear drain clogs. Place the snake into the drain hole of your toilet and then twist to turn, push, or pull until you feel resistance; this is where the blockage typically is. Make an effort to break any obstructions using a back-and-forth movement without causing damages in your drainpipe.
Note:
- Don’t push or pull actions hard as they can result in more damage.
Step 6: Turn on the water supply and test the results.
Once you’ve eliminated any blockages, it is important to switch on the valve for water flow on your toilet bowl once more. You should flush it a couple of times to make sure 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. |
Common Questions & Answers
What can I do to tell when my toilet has become blocked?
One of the most obvious indications of a toilet that is blocked is when water levels rise to the top after flushing. There is a possibility that the water drains slowly or you hear the sound of gurgling directly from your toilet.
What should I do if my toilet is blocked?
If you suspect your toilet is blocked and you are unable to flush it, do not attempt to flush it over again since this could result in flooding. Instead, turn off the water supply valve behind the toilet and use a plunger to try to clear any obstructions. If this isn’t working you can call Sydney Blocked Drains Plumber for professional help.
Do I have the ability to stop my toilet from becoming blocked?
Yes! There are numerous options to prevent your toilet from being blocked. This includes avoiding flushing items that are not biodegradable, such as toiletries, wet wipes or cotton wool down the toilet. Avoid using oil or grease in the sink, as it can cause solidification and cause blockages to pipes.
What is the best time to call an experienced plumber to fix an unblocking toilet?
If you’ve tried flushing your toilet, but it isn’t unblocking, or you think there’s a bigger issue with your plumbing system that is causing frequent blockages, it’s time to seek out a professional plumber like Sydney Blocked Drains Plumber . We’ve had years of experience dealing with all kinds of plumbing problems that we can quickly detect and fix any issues with the least impact on your property.
Do I need to have my drains cleared?
It’s recommended that you have your drains cleaned by professionals like Sydney Blocked Drains Plumber every 1-2 years. This can prevent blockages and ensure that your plumbing system in good working order. However, if you frequently encounter blockages in your drains or slow draining water, despite trying to avoid clogging them, then yearly cleaning would be beneficial.
These methods are relatively easy to implement in the majority of cases, and these items are readily available to homes. If you’re having trouble with your toilets, don’t be worrying after trying the methods, contact Sydney Blocked Drains Plumber ‘s expert plumbers located in Sydney , if you’re in search of professional assistance for your blocked toilets.
Additional Information
- Preventing Leaks and Blockages: Understanding Pipe Relining Services
- Future-Proofing Your Plumbing System with CCTV Drain Inspection
- CCTV Drain Inspection: The Future of Drain Cleaning Industry
- Why Regular Drain Cleaning Should Be Part of Your Home Maintenance Routine
- Save Future Expenses with CCTV Drain Inspection for Home Buyers
- DIY Tips for Unclogging Your Shower Drain Without Harsh Chemicals
- CCTV Drain Inspections: A faster, Accurate and Effective Means of Identifying Root Issues in Drains
- Why Trenchless Pipe Relining is the Future of Condominium Plumbing
- Tips to Understand When it's Time to Pick Up the Phone for Professional Drain Cleaning
- Uncovering Hidden Damage with a Professional CCTV Drain Inspection
