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

Toilet blockages can occur anytime and are a common issue for homeowners. It’s unpleasant messy and uninspiring and requires immediate attention. However, you don’t have to call an plumber immediately. In this blog post we’ll take you through the steps to clear your toilet in no time.

Key Takeaways

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

The Tools You’ll Need

Before we get started, it’s essential to be prepared with these tools at hand:

• Rubber Gloves
• Plunger
• Baking Soda and Vinegar (Optional)
• The Hanger for Wire Coats or the plumbing Snake (Optional)

Step 1: Switch off the valve for water flow.

The first thing you need to do when facing a clogged toilet is to turn off the water supply valve behind the toilet. This ensures that no water will enter the tank during your are working to unblock it. The valve is usually situated at the bottom of the tank on the other side.

Step 2: Be sure to protect yourself with rubber gloves.

Your hands must be protected from potential bacteria or germs present 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 effective tool for getting rid of blocked toilets. First, push down gently upon the plunger until air is released, then press firmly over the toilet bowl. Then, start to plunge continuously up and down for approximately 20 minutes. The suction generated by plunging back and forth can help clear any obstructions.

Tips:

• Be sure to use a powerful but controlled motion.
• Fill in holes around sinks and shower drains, if they are close by to prevent the air from escaping when you plunge.

Step 4: Make a baking soda with vinegar.

If plunging doesn’t work Try this method - pour half a cup of baking soda and 1 tablespoon of vinegar in the bowl. Let this mixture settle for approximately 15 minutes. It will fizz a bit but when it ceases to fizz then pour boiling water down (not at a boil) to eliminate the obstruction.

Step 5 5. Use an iron coat hanger made of wire or plumbing snake.

If both plunging and baking soda/vinegar techniques have failed to clear the clog, then it’s time to use a wire coat hanger, or plumbing snake. The coat hanger should be straightened’s wire until have a thick, thin wire with an angled hook on one side or it as a plumbing snake which was specially designed to clear drain blockages. Place the snake into your toilet drain hole and then twist, turn, push at the same time until you sense a resistance. there’s usually a blockage is. Be gentle and try to break any blockages with a back-andforth motion without damaging your pipe.

Note:

• Do not overdo pulling or pushing actions with force as they may make things worse

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

Once you’ve eliminated any obstructions, it’s essential to turn on the supply of water behind the toilet bowl. You should flush it a couple of times to make sure all water flows smoothly now!

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I tell if my toilet is blocked?

Some of the more obvious signs of a blocked toilet is when the water level rises to the top of the bowl after flushing. There is a possibility that the water drains slowly, or you might hear sounds of gurgling coming from the toilet.

What can I do if my toilet is blocked?

If you suspect that your toilet is blocked and you are unable to flush it, do not attempt to flush it in the future as this could result in flooding. Instead, turn off water flow valve that is behind the toilet, and employ a plunger to try to eliminate any blockages. If that doesn’t work contact Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbing for professional help.

Can I stop my toilet from getting blocked?

Yes! There are numerous actions you can take to stop your toilet from getting blocked, including avoiding flushing items that are not biodegradable, such as the sanitary products, wet wipes or cotton wool in the toilet. Also, avoid spilling oil or grease down the sink as it will cause it to solidify and block pipes.

When should I call a professional plumber for an unblocking toilet?

If you’ve tried to flush the toilet, but it does not unblock, or you suspect that there’s a problem with the plumbing system, causing frequent blockages, it’s the right time to contact an experienced plumber such as Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbing . We’ve had years of experience in dealing with various plumbing issues and can quickly diagnose and resolve any issues without causing any impact on your property.

How often should I get my drains cleared?

It is recommended to have cleaning your drainage system by a professional such as Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbing every 1-2 years. This will prevent blockages and keep your plumbing system in good working order. If you regularly have problems with drains blocking or slow draining water despite taking precautions not to clog them, then cleaning your drains every year could be beneficial.

These procedures are fairly easy to execute, and most of these items are available in households. If you’re experiencing a toilet that is blocked, before panicking after attempting all these strategies, you should contact Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbing ‘s expert plumbers located in Sydney , if you’re in search of professional assistance for your blocked toilets.

Additional Information

• The Pros and Cons of DIY Drain Cleaning vs. Hiring a Professional
• Preventing Leaks and Blockages: Understanding Pipe Relining Services
• The Ultimate Guide to Prevent Drain Blockages
• DIY Methods for Clearing Blocked Drains at Home
• How CCTV Drain Inspection Can Save You Money in the Long Run
• Protect Your Condo's Property Value with Long-Lasting Trenchless Pipe Relining
• Don�t Get Caught Unprepared! What You Need to Do Before a CCTV Drain Inspection
• DIY Drain Cleaning: How to Safely Tackle Clogged Drains
• The Benefits of Unblocking Blocked Drains for Your Business
• Reasons Why CCTV Drain Inspection is a Must Before Purchasing a Property