What to Do When Your Toilet is Blocked: A Step-by-Step Guide
Toilet blockages can occur anytime and are a common household issue. They can be uncomfortable and messy and require immediate attention. But, you don’t necessarily need to call a plumber immediately. In this blog post we’ll walk you through some simple steps to unclog your toilet within a matter of minutes.
Key Takeaways
- Toilet blockages can be solved with the use of simple tools like plungers, baking soda
The tools you’ll need
Before we start it is essential to be prepared with these tools:
- Rubber Gloves
- Plunger
- Baking Soda and Vinegar (Optional)
- A Wire Coat hanger, or a Plumbing Snake (Optional)
Step 1: Switch off the water supply valve.
The first thing to do when you encounter a blocked toilet is shutting off the water supply valve behind the toilet. This will ensure that there is no further water entering the tank during your work on unclogging it. The valve is usually found near in the middle of the tank on the other side.
Step 2: Make sure you are protected by wearing rubber gloves.
Protect your hands from germs or bacteria present in your toilet bowl by wearing rubber gloves prior to making use of any tools to unblock the drain.
Step 3: Use a plunger.
A plunger is without doubt the most effective tool to use for getting rid of blocked toilets. The first step is to gently push down on the plunger until all air is evacuated from it. then press firmly over the toilet and begin to plunge continuously up and down for approximately 20 minutes. The suction that is created by the movement of the plunger will assist in removing any blockages.
Tips:
- Make sure you are using a strong but controlled movement.
- Make holes in the sinks or shower drains if close enough to prevent the air from escaping when you plunge.
Step 4: Make a baking soda and vinegar in a mixture.
If plunging doesn’t work, try this next tactic add half a cup of baking soda and one tablespoon of vinegar in the bowl. Allow the mixture to settle for 15 to 20 minutes. It will fizz a bit before it slows down you can pour hot water down (not hot) to eliminate the blockage.
Step 5 Step 5: Use a coat hanger with wire or a plumbing snake.
If both plunging and baking soda/vinegar techniques have failed to clear the clog, then it’s the right time to utilize an electric coat hanger or plumbing snake. Make sure you straighten your coat hanger’s wire until have a thick, thin wire with hooks that are bent at one end or use it as a plumbing snake. It is specially designed to clear drain blockages. Install the snake in the drain hole in your toilet and twist and turn, push at the same time until you sense resistance. that’s where the blockage usually occurs. Gently try to break up any obstructions using a back-and-forth movement but without causing any damage to your pipe.
Note:
- Never overdo pushing or pulling actions hard as they can cause more harm.
Step 6: Turn on the water supply, and then check the result.
Once you’ve removed any obstructions, it’s crucial to turn off the supply of water behind your toilet bowl again. You should flush it a couple of times to make sure 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. |
FAQ
How do I know when my toilet has become blocked?
The most typical signs of a blocked toilet is when the water level rises to the top after flushing. It is also possible to notice that water drains away slowly or you hear sounds of gurgling coming from the toilet.
What should I do if the toilet is blocked?
If you believe your toilet is blocked and you are unable to flush it, do not attempt to flush it once more as this could result in flooding. Instead, turn off the water supply valve in front of the toilet and employ a plunger to try and remove any blockages. If this doesn’t work then call Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbing for professional help.
How can I stop my toilet from becoming blocked?
Yes! There are many ways to avoid your toilet being blocked. This includes avoiding flushing non-degradable products like sanitary products, wet wipes or cotton wool down the toilet. Avoid spilling oil or grease down the sink, as it can cause solidification and cause blockages to pipes.
What is the best time to call a professional plumber to resolve a blocked toilet?
If you’ve tried to flush your toilet, but it doesn’t clear or you believe there’s a larger issue with your plumbing system that is causing frequent blockages, it’s time to seek out a professional plumber, such as Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbing . We have years of experience tackling any plumbing problem and are able to quickly identify and address any issues with minimal disturbance to the home.
How often should I schedule my drains cleared?
It’s recommended that you have the drains cleaned out by a professional such as Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbing every 1-2 years. This will prevent blockages and help keep your plumbing system functioning smoothly. If, however, you often experience drain blockages or slow draining water, despite taking precautions not to clog them, then regular cleaning could be beneficial.
These techniques are fairly simple to implement and the majority of these products are easily available in homes. If you’re facing a blocked toilet, prior to getting anxious after trying all the methods, contact Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbing ‘s expert plumbers located in Sydney , if you’re seeking professional assistance for your blocked toilets.
Additional Information
- D. I.Y Drain Cleaning: The Risks and Benefits Compared to Professional Solutions
- Top Reasons to Avoid DIY Drain Unblocking
- The Ultimate Guide to Prevent Drain Blockages
- Why CCTV Drain Inspection is a Cost-Effective Solution for Your Plumbing Needs
- CCTV Drain Inspection Technology: Detecting Corrosion in Sewer Pipes
- The Benefits of CCTV Drain Inspections: How Often Should You Carry Them Out?
- Save Money and Time with Preventative Drain Care Practices
- Protect Your Condo's Property Value with Long-Lasting Trenchless Pipe Relining
- The Pros and Cons of DIY Drain Cleaning vs. Hiring a Professional
- The Benefits of Unblocking Blocked Drains for Your Business
