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 dirty, inconvenient, and messy, and require immediate attention. However, you don’t always have to call a plumber right away. In this blog, we will guide you through the steps to unclog your toilet within a matter of minutes.
Key Takeaways
- Toilet blockages can be resolved using simple tools and techniques like plungers, baking soda
The tools you’ll need
Before we begin it is essential to have these tools in your arsenal:
- Rubber Gloves
- Plunger
- Baking Soda and Vinegar (Optional)
- The Hanger for Wire Coats or the Pipe Snake (Optional)
Step 1: Shut off your water source valve.
The first thing to do when confronted with a blocked toilet is turning off the valve for water flow that is behind the toilet. This ensures that no more water enters the tank as you are working to unblock it. The valve usually is found near in the middle of the tank, on the other side.
Step 2: Make sure you are protected with rubber gloves.
Protect your hands from germs or bacteria present in your toilet bowl with rubber gloves prior to 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. Start by pushing down onto the plunger till all air is released, then press it hard over the toilet bowl and start plunging vigorously up and down for approximately 20 seconds. The suction created by the movement of the plunger will help remove any blockages.
Tips:
- Make sure you are using a strong but controlled motion.
- Cover holes around sinks or shower drains if they are close enough to stop the air from escaping when you plunge.
Step 4: Try baking soda and vinegar mix.
If the plunge doesn’t work Try this method to pour half a mug of baking soda and 1 teaspoon of vinegar inside the bathroom bowl. Let this mixture settle for approximately 15 minutes. The mixture will start to fizz before it slows down, pour hot water down (not overly hot) to clear the blockage.
Step 5 Utilize a wire coat hanger or a plumbing snake.
If plunging, baking soda or vinegar methods have failed the problem, it’s the time to employ the wire coat hanger or plumbing snake. Straighten the coat hanger’s cord until you have a long thin wire that has a hook that is bent on one side or the plumbing snake. It is made specifically to clear drain clogs. Place the snake into the drain hole of your toilet and then twist and turn, push and pull till you experience resistance. that’s where the blockage usually occurs. Try to break up the blockages by using a back and forth motion without causing damages in your pipeline.
Note:
- Do not overdo pulling or pushing actions with force as they may result in more damage.
Step 6: Turn on the water supply and test the results.
Once you’ve eliminated any obstructions, it’s important to switch on the supply of water on the toilet bowl. After that, flush it a few 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
What can I do to tell when my toilet is not functioning properly?
One of the most obvious indicators of a clogged toilet is when the water level rises to the brim after flushing. You may also notice that water drains away slowly, or you may hear noises of gurgling coming from the toilet.
What can I do if the toilet is blocked?
If you suspect that your toilet is blocked and you are unable to flush it, do not attempt to flush it again as this can result in flooding. Instead, shut off the water supply valve on the side of the toilet. Then utilize a plunger to remove any obstruction. If this doesn’t work contact Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbing for professional help.
Do I have the ability to stop my toilet from becoming blocked?
Yes! There are many actions you can take to avoid your toilet becoming blocked. One of them is to avoid flushing non-degradable items such as toiletries, wet wipes or cotton wool in the toilet. Avoid pouring grease or oil down the sink which can solidify and cause blockages to pipes.
When should I contact a professional plumber to resolve the problem of a toilet that is blocked?
If you’ve tried plunging your toilet, but it doesn’t clear or you believe there’s a bigger issue with your plumbing system that’s causing frequent blockages, it’s the right time to get in touch with an experienced professional plumber such as Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbing . We have years of experience with all kinds of plumbing problems and can swiftly diagnose and resolve any issues with the least interruption to your house.
How often should I schedule my drains cleared?
It’s recommended that you have clean your drains by a professional like Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbing every 1-2 years. This can prevent obstructions and keep your plumbing system in good working order. If, however, you often experience drain blockages or slow drainage of water despite taking precautions not to clog them, then cleaning your drains every year would be beneficial.
These techniques are fairly simple to carry out in the majority of cases, and these items are readily available in households. If you’re experiencing a toilet that is blocked, before being anxious after attempting the techniques, call Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbing ‘s expert plumbers located in Sydney , if you’re looking for professional help with the problem of blocked toilets.
Additional Information
- CCTV Drain Inspection Technology: Detecting Corrosion in Sewer Pipes
- Clean Your Clogged Shower Drain the Green Way without Chemicals
- The Top Causes of Blocked Drains You Need to Know
- Top Reasons to Avoid DIY Drain Unblocking
- Preventing Leaks and Blockages: Understanding Pipe Relining Services
- DIY Methods for Clearing Blocked Drains at Home
- Save Money and Time with Preventative Drain Care Practices
- DIY Drain Cleaning: How to Safely Tackle Clogged Drains
- How CCTV Drain Inspection Helps in Saving Time and Money on Plumbing Repairs?
- Reasons Why CCTV Drain Inspection is a Must Before Purchasing a Property
