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. They can be uncomfortable and messy, and require immediate attention. However, you do not always need to call a plumber right away. In this blog we’ll take you through simple ways to clean your toilet within a matter of minutes.
Key Takeaways
- Toilet blockages are easily remediated with simple tools and methods like plungers, baking soda
The Tools You’ll Need
Before we get started, it’s essential to be prepared with these tools:
- 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 confronted with a blocked toilet is shutting off water valves on the toilet. This step ensures that no more water enters the tank as you work on unclogging it. The valve is typically found near in the middle of the tank on the other side.
Step 2: Make sure you are protected with rubber gloves.
Hands must be protected from potential bacteria or germs present in your toilet with rubber gloves before making use of any tool to clear the toilet.
Step 3: Use a plunger.
The plunger is by far the most efficient tool for cleaning toilets that are blocked. Start by pushing down onto the plunger till air is evacuated from it. then place it firmly on the hole in your toilet and begin to plunge continuously up and down for around 20 minutes. The suction that is created through plunging back and forth will assist in removing any blockages.
Tips:
- Make sure you are using a strong but controlled movement.
- Cover holes around sinks or shower drains, if they are near to stop air pressure escaping as you plunge.
Step 4: Try baking soda and vinegar in a mixture.
If plunging doesn’t work Try this method Pour half a cup of baking soda and a cups of white vinegar to the toilet. Let this mixture settle for about 15 minutes. It will begin to bubble but when it ceases to fizz, pour hot water down (not at a boil) to clear the blockage.
Step 5 5. Use an iron coat hanger made of wire or plumbing snake.
If plunging, baking soda or vinegar methods have failed to clear the clog, then it’s time to try an electric coat hanger or plumbing snake. The coat hanger should be straightened’s cord until you are left with a thin and long wire with a hook bent at one end, or you can use to use the plumbing snake. It is specifically designed for clearing drain clogs. Install the snake in the drain hole in your toilet and then twist and turn, push and pull till you experience resistance. it’s the place where the blockage occurs. Be gentle and try to break any blockages using back-and-forth motion without damaging your pipe.
Note:
- Never overdo pushing or pulling actions with force as they may make things worse
Step 6: Restart the water supply and check the result
Once you’ve eliminated any obstructions, it’s essential to turn on the supply of water behind your toilet. Then flush it several times to ensure 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. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know when my toilet has become blocked?
The most frequent indications of a toilet that is blocked is when water rises to the top of the toilet after flushing. There is a possibility that water drains away in a slow manner, or hear gurgling sounds coming directly from your toilet.
What should I do if the toilet is blocked?
If you think the toilet is blocked then avoid flushing it again as this can cause flooding. Instead, turn off the water supply at the valve in front of the toilet and employ a plunger to try and remove any blockages. If that doesn’t work you can call Sydney Blocked Drains Plumber for professional help.
Do I have the ability to stop my toilet from getting blocked?
Yes! There are numerous ways to avoid your toilet getting blocked, including avoiding the flushing of non-degradable things like sanitary products, wet wipes or cotton wool down the toilet. Avoid pouring grease or oil down the drain, which could cause solidification 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 splurging your toilet, but it won’t unblock or you suspect there’s a larger issue with the plumbing system, causing frequent blockages, it’s the right time to seek out a professional plumber, such as Sydney Blocked Drains Plumber . We have years of experience tackling any plumbing problem and are able to quickly identify and fix any issues with the least impact on your property.
What is the best frequency to have my drains cleared?
It is suggested that you have the drains cleaned out by experts like Sydney Blocked Drains Plumber every 1-2 years. This will reduce the chance of obstructions and keep your plumbing system in good working order. However, if you frequently encounter blockages in your drains or slow draining water despite making sure you are taking steps to prevent clogging them, then yearly cleaning could be 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 Sydney Blocked Drains Plumber ‘s expert plumbers located in Sydney , if you’re seeking professional assistance for the problem of blocked toilets.
Additional Information
- CCTV Drain Inspections: A faster, Accurate and Effective Means of Identifying Root Issues in Drains
- Preventing Leaks and Blockages: Understanding Pipe Relining Services
- Tips to Understand When it's Time to Pick Up the Phone for Professional Drain Cleaning
- Don't Let These Common Mistakes Clog Your Pipes
- CCTV Drain Inspection: The Future of Drain Cleaning Industry
- Uncovering Hidden Damage with a Professional CCTV Drain Inspection
- Why Regular Drain Cleaning Should Be Part of Your Home Maintenance Routine
- Why Trenchless Pipe Relining is the Future of Condominium Plumbing
- The Pros and Cons of Clearing Blocked Drains Yourself or Hiring a Professional
- Save Future Expenses with CCTV Drain Inspection for Home Buyers
