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. It’s unpleasant and messy, and require immediate attention. However, you don’t always have to contact a plumber immediately. In this blog post, we will guide you through simple steps to unclog your toilet within a matter of minutes.
Key Takeaways
- Toilet blockages can be resolved with the use of simple tools like plungers, baking soda
The tools you’ll need
Before we get started, it’s essential to have these tools in your arsenal:
- Rubber Gloves
- Plunger
- Baking Soda and Vinegar (Optional)
- Hook for the Wire Coat or plumbing Snake (Optional)
Step 1: Switch off the valve for water flow.
The first thing you should do when confronted with a blocked toilet is shutting off the valve for water flow that is behind the toilet. This step ensures that there is no further water entering the tank during your work on unclogging it. The valve usually is situated at in the middle of the tank, on the other side.
Step 2: Be sure to protect yourself with rubber gloves.
You must protect your hands from germs or bacteria found in your toilet bowl with rubber gloves before using any tools that help in unclogging.
Step 3: Use a plunger.
A plunger is without doubt the most efficient method for clearing toilets of blockages. The first step is to gently push down onto the plunger till all air is evacuated from it. then press it hard over the toilet and begin to plunge continuously up and down for about 20 minutes. The suction created through plunging back and forth will help remove any blockages.
Tips:
- Use a firm but controlled motion.
- Cover holes around sinks or shower drains if close enough to prevent air pressure escaping as you plunge.
Step 4: Make a baking soda and vinegar mix.
If you’re not able to get the plunge working then try this alternative method add half a cup of baking soda as well as one cups of white vinegar to the toilet. Allow the mixture to settle for 15 to 20 minutes. It will begin to bubble but when it ceases to fizz, pour hot water down (not boiling) to clear the blockage.
Step 5 Utilize a wire coat hanger or a plumbing snake.
If plunging, baking soda or vinegar methods have failed to clear the clog, then it’s the time to employ a wire coat hanger, or plumbing snake. Make sure you straighten your coat hanger’s cord until you are left with a thin and long 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. Install the snake in the drain hole of your toilet and then twist and turn, push at the same time until you sense a resistance. this is where the blockage typically occurs. Try to break up any blockages using back-and-forth motion without damaging your drainpipe.
Note:
- Never overdo pushing or pulling actions as they could result in more damage.
Step 6: Turn on the water supply and verify the result
After you have cleared any obstructions, it’s crucial to turn off the supply of water behind your toilet. Then 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 & Answers
How do I know whether my toilet is clogged?
One of the most frequent indicators of a clogged toilet is when water levels rise to the top of the bowl after flushing. You may also notice that the water drains in a slow manner, or hear sounds of gurgling coming out of the bathroom.
What can I do if my bathroom is blocked?
If you believe the toilet is blocked, avoid trying to flush it again as this can cause flooding. Instead, turn off water flow at the valve behind the toilet and use a plunger to try to remove any obstruction. 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 several ways to prevent your toilet from getting blocked, including avoiding flushing non-degradable items such as toiletries, wet wipes or cotton wool down the toilet. It is also important to avoid spilling oil or grease down the sink, as it can cause solidification and block pipes.
When should I contact an experienced plumber about a toilet that has become blocked?
If you’ve tried splurging your toilet, but it won’t unblock or you suspect there’s a bigger issue with your plumbing system that’s causing frequent blockages, it’s time to get in touch with a professional plumber, such as Local Sydney Blocked Drains . We’ve got years of experience tackling every kind of plumbing issue and are able to quickly identify and fix any issues without causing any interruption to your house.
How often should I schedule my drains cleaned?
It is recommended that you get cleaning your drainage system by a professional such as Local Sydney Blocked Drains every 1-2 years. This will prevent blockages and keep your plumbing system running smoothly. If you regularly experience drain blockages or slow drainage of water despite being careful to not block them, then regular cleaning is beneficial.
These methods are relatively easy to implement and the majority of these items are available in households. If you’re facing a blocked toilet, prior to panicking after attempting all these methods mentioned above – contact Local Sydney Blocked Drains ‘s expert plumbers located in Sydney , if you’re looking for professional assistance for those blocked toilets.
Additional Information
- Don't Let Your Blocked Drains Cause You Trouble
- Why Condo Complexes are Switching to Trenchless Pipe Relining Methods
- The Importance of CCTV Drain Inspection in Commercial Properties
- Why Pipe Relining is a Cost-Effective Solution for your Business’ Plumbing Issues?
- Benefits of Pipe Relining for Your Blocked Drains Problem
- Maximizing the Benefits of a CCTV Drain Inspection: Preparations You Should Make
- Why Regular Drain Cleaning Should Be Part of Your Home Maintenance Routine
- CCTV Drain Inspections: The Key to Preventing Clogs and Other Plumbing Issues
- The Ultimate Guide to Prevent Drain Blockages
- Dealing with Blocked Drains: DIY Techniques vs Professional Services
