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. They can be uncomfortable, messy, and inconvenient and requires immediate attention. But, you don’t necessarily need to call an emergency plumber right away. In this blog we’ll take you through some simple steps to unclog your toilet in no time.
Key Takeaways
- Toilet blockages can be resolved by using simple tools such as a plunger, baking soda
The Tools You’ll Need
Before we start we must be prepared with these tools at hand:
- Rubber Gloves
- Plunger
- Baking Soda and Vinegar (Optional)
- The Hanger for Wire Coats or the Plumber Snake (Optional)
Step 1: Switch off the water supply valve.
The first thing you need to do when faced with a blocked toilet is to turn off the valve for water flow behind the toilet. This is to ensure that no more water enters the tank as you are working to unblock it. The valve usually is situated near on the floor of your tank, on one side.
Step 2: Protect yourself by wearing rubber gloves.
Hands must be protected from any germs or bacteria found in your toilet bowl by wearing rubber gloves prior to making use of any tools to unblock the drain.
Step 3: Use a plunger.
The plunger is by far the most effective tool to use for clearing up blocked toilets. First, push down gently to the plunger, until air is removed from it, then place it in the hole in your toilet bowl. Then, start to plunge vigorously up and down for around 20 minutes. The suction created through plunging back and forth will assist in removing any blockages.
Tips:
- Ensure you use a forceful but controlled motion.
- Cover holes around sinks or shower drains if they are near to stop the air from escaping when you plunge.
Step 4: Try baking soda and vinegar mix.
If you’re not able to get the plunge working you can try this other method add half a cup of baking soda and 1 cup of vinegar into the toilet bowl. Let this mixture settle for about 15 minutes. The mixture will start to fizz before it slows down, pour hot water down (not at a boil) to flush out the blockage.
Step 5: Use a wire coat hanger or a plumbing snake.
If both plunging and baking soda and vinegar have not worked and you are in need of a solution, 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 thin, long wire with a hook bent at one end. You can also use to use the plumbing snake which is made specifically to clear drain obstructions. Insert the tool into the drain hole of your toilet and then twist around, twist, push and pull till you experience resistance. this is where the blockage typically is. Try to break up the blockages by using a back and forth motion without damaging your pipeline.
Note:
- Do not overdo pulling or pushing actions with force as they may result in more damage.
Step 6: Switch on the water supply and check the result
Once you’ve removed any blockages, it is essential to turn on the water supply valve in the toilet bowl. Make sure to flush it several times to ensure that everything flows freely 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
How do I know when my toilet has become blocked?
A 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 slowly or you hear noises of gurgling coming out of the bathroom.
What should I do if my toilet is blocked?
If you believe your toilet has been blocked and you are unable to flush it, do not attempt to flush it again as this can result in flooding. Instead, shut off your water source at the valve in front of the toilet and use a plunger to try to eliminate any blockages. If this 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 several ways to stop your toilet from getting blocked, including avoiding the flushing of non-degradable things like toiletries, wet wipes or cotton wool into the toilet. Avoid spilling oil or grease down the sink which can solidify and block pipes.
When should I contact a professional plumber for the problem of a toilet that is blocked?
If you’ve tried plunging your toilet but it still doesn’t clear or you believe there’s a bigger issue with your plumbing system that is causing frequent blockages, it’s time to call in a professional plumber like Sydney Blocked Drains Plumber . We’ve had years of experience with any plumbing problem and can quickly diagnose and address any issues without causing any impact on your property.
When should I have my drains cleared?
It’s recommended that you have the drains cleaned out by a professional like Sydney Blocked Drains Plumber every 1-2 years. This will prevent obstructions and keep your plumbing system operating smoothly. 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 regular cleaning could be beneficial.
These techniques are fairly simple to implement in the majority of cases, and these items are available in homes. If you’re having trouble with your toilets, don’t be worrying after trying the strategies, you should contact Sydney Blocked Drains Plumber ‘s expert plumbers located in Sydney , if you’re in search of professional assistance for problems with your blocked toilets.
Additional Information
- Preventing Leaks and Blockages: Understanding Pipe Relining Services
- Uncovering Hidden Damage with a Professional CCTV Drain Inspection
- Why Trenchless Pipe Relining is the Future of Condominium Plumbing
- Top Reasons to Avoid DIY Drain Unblocking
- Understanding CCTV Drain Inspection and the Benefits for Your Home
- How to Prevent Your Drains from Getting Blocked
- Future-Proofing Your Plumbing System with CCTV Drain Inspection
- DIY Tips for Unclogging Your Shower Drain Without Harsh Chemicals
- Common Drain Cleaning Mistakes You Need to Avoid
- CCTV Drain Inspections: A faster, Accurate and Effective Means of Identifying Root Issues in Drains
