What to Do When Your Toilet is Blocked: A Step-by-Step Guide

Toilet blockages can occur at any time and are a common issue for homeowners. They can be uncomfortable messy and uninspiring, and require immediate attention. However, you do not always have to contact an plumber immediately. In this blog we’ll take you through the ways to clean your toilet in no time.

Key Takeaways

• Toilet blockages can be resolved by using simple tools like plungers, baking soda

The Tools You’ll Need

Before we start it is essential to have these tools handy:

• Rubber Gloves
• Plunger
• Baking Soda and Vinegar (Optional)
• Hook for the Wire Coat or Pipe Snake (Optional)

Step 1: Close your water source valve.

The first thing to do when confronted with a blocked toilet is to turn off the valve for water flow on the toilet. This step ensures that there is no further water entering the tank during your are working to unblock it. The valve is typically situated at in the middle of the tank, on one side.

Step 2: Protect yourself with rubber gloves.

Protect your hands from germs or bacteria present in your toilet bowl with rubber gloves before using any tools for unclogging.

Step 3: Use a plunger.

The plunger is by far the most efficient method for getting rid of blocked toilets. Begin by pressing down upon the plunger until all air is released, then place it firmly on the toilet and begin to plunge vigorously up and down for about 20 seconds. The suction caused by plunging back and forth will assist in removing any blockages.

Tips:

• Use a firm but controlled movement.
• Fill in holes around sinks and shower drains if they are close enough to stop the air from escaping when you plunge.

Step 4: Test baking soda with vinegar.

If plunges don’t work, try this next tactic Pour half a cup of baking soda as well as one cup of vinegar into the toilet bowl. The mixture should sit for about 15 minutes. The mixture will start to fizz, and when it stops it will be poured down with hot water (not at a boil) to remove the obstruction.

Step 5 Step 5: Use a coat hanger with wire 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 time to employ an electric coat hanger or plumbing snake. You can straighten out the coat hanger’s cable until you have a long thin wire that has a hook bent on one side or it as a plumbing snake which is designed specifically for clearing drain clogs. Install the snake in your toilet drain hole and then twist, turn, push to the point where you can feel resistance; it’s the place where the blockage is. Make an effort to break any blockages using back-and-forth motion without causing damages in your pipe.

Note:

• Be careful not to push or pull actions with force as they may make things worse

Step 6: Switch on the water supply, and then check the result.

After you have cleared any blockages, it is crucial to turn off the supply of water that is behind your toilet. Make sure to flush it several times to ensure that everything flows freely now!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when my toilet is not functioning properly?

A frequent indications of a toilet that is blocked is when water rises to the top of the toilet after flushing. You may also notice that the water drains slowly, or you may hear the sound of gurgling out of the bathroom.

What can 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 water flow at the valve in front of the toilet and use a plunger to try and remove any blockages. If this doesn’t work then call Local Sydney Blocked Drains for professional help.

Can I stop my toilet from getting blocked?

Yes! There are many things you can do to avoid your toilet becoming blocked. These include avoiding flushing non-degradable products like toiletries, wet wipes or cotton wool down the toilet. Avoid spilling oil or grease down the drain, which could cause solidification and cause blockages to pipes.

When should I call a professional plumber to resolve a toilet that has become blocked?

If you’ve tried plunging your toilet, but it isn’t unblocking, or you think there’s a bigger issue with your plumbing system that’s causing frequent blockages, it’s time to seek out a professional plumber like Local Sydney Blocked Drains . We’ve had years of experience tackling every kind of plumbing issue that we can quickly detect and fix any issues with minimal disturbance to the home.

When should I have my drains cleaned?

It is recommended to have the drains cleaned out by experts like Local Sydney Blocked Drains every 1-2 years. This will prevent blockages and ensure that your plumbing system in good working order. If you regularly suffer from blockages to your drains or slow draining of water despite making sure you are taking steps to prevent clogging them, then yearly cleaning would be beneficial.

These methods are relatively easy to apply as the majority of items are readily available in homes. If you’re having trouble with your toilets, don’t be panicking after attempting all these strategies, you should contact Local Sydney Blocked Drains ‘s expert plumbers located in Sydney , if you’re searching for professional help with your blocked toilets.

Additional Information

• Top Reasons to Avoid DIY Drain Unblocking
• 5 Ways to Keep Your Drains Clear and Running Smoothly
• Understanding CCTV Drain Inspection and the Benefits for Your Home
• Dealing with Blocked Drains: DIY Techniques vs Professional Services
• The Benefits of CCTV Drain Inspection: Beyond Unclogging Pipes
• The Ultimate Guide to Drain Clearing Services
• Letting You See What's Hiding Beneath Your Prospective Property: The Benefits of CCTV Drain Inspection
• Why Condo Complexes are Switching to Trenchless Pipe Relining Methods
• CCTV Drain Inspections: A faster, Accurate and Effective Means of Identifying Root Issues in Drains
• DIY Tips for Unclogging Your Shower Drain Without Harsh Chemicals