What to Do When Your Toilet is Blocked: A Step-by-Step Guide
Toilet blockages can occur at any moment and are a common issue for homeowners. They can be unpleasant dirty, inconvenient, and messy and require immediate attention. But, you don’t necessarily need to call an plumber right away. In this blog post we’ll guide you through the ways to clean your toilet in no time.
Key Takeaways
- Toilet blockages can be cured using simple tools and techniques like a plunger baking soda
The Tools You’ll Need
Before we begin it’s important to have these tools in your arsenal:
- Rubber Gloves
- Plunger
- Baking Soda and Vinegar (Optional)
- Hook for the Wire Coat or Plumber Snake (Optional)
Step 1: Close the supply of water valve.
The first thing you need to do when confronted with a blocked toilet is shutting off the valve for water flow that is behind the toilet. This ensures that no water can enter the tank while you work on unclogging it. The valve is usually located near to the base of tank on the other side.
Step 2: Make sure you are protected by wearing rubber gloves.
You must protect your hands against germs and bacteria found in your toilet bowl by wearing rubber gloves prior to using any tools for unclogging.
Step 3: Use a plunger.
The plunger is by far the most effective tool to use for getting rid of blocked toilets. Start by pushing down onto the plunger till all air escapes from it, then press firmly over the toilet bowl and start plunging quickly up and down for about 20 seconds. The suction that is created when you plunge back and forth will help remove any blockages.
Tips:
- Ensure you use a forceful but controlled motion.
- Make holes in the sinks or shower drains if close enough to prevent the release of pressure as you plunge.
Step 4: Test baking soda and vinegar mixture.
If plunging doesn’t work, try this next tactic Pour half a cup of baking soda and a cup of vinegar into the toilet bowl. The mixture should sit for about 15 minutes. The mixture will start to fizz but when it ceases to fizz you can pour hot water down (not hot) to flush out the obstruction.
Step 5 Step 5: Use an iron coat hanger made of wire or a plumbing snake.
If plunging, baking soda/vinegar techniques have failed, then it is time to use a wire coat hanger, or plumbing snake. Make sure you straighten your coat hanger’s cable until you have a thick, thin wire with hooks that are bent at one end, or you can use it as a plumbing snake that was specially designed to clear drain obstructions. Insert the tool into the drain hole of your toilet and then twist around, twist, push or pull until you feel a resistance. there’s usually a blockage is. Make an effort to break any obstructions using a back-and-forth movement without damaging the pipeline.
Note:
- Do not overdo pulling or pushing actions as they could result in more damage.
Step 6: Turn on the water supply, and then check the result.
Once you’ve cleared up any blockages, it is important to switch on the valve for water flow behind your toilet. Then flush it several 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. |
Common Questions & Answers
How can I tell whether my toilet is clogged?
A frequent symptoms of a blocked toilet is when water levels rise to the top after flushing. There is a possibility that the water drains slowly, or you might hear the sound of gurgling through the toilet.
What should I do if the toilet is blocked?
If you suspect that your toilet is blocked, avoid trying to flush it in the future as this could result in flooding. Instead, turn off the supply of water to the valve in front of the toilet and utilize a plunger and remove any blockages. If that doesn’t work contact Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers for professional help.
Can I prevent my toilet from becoming blocked?
Yes! There are a variety of actions you can take to stop your toilet from becoming blocked. These include avoiding the flushing of non-degradable things like the sanitary products, wet wipes or cotton wool into 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 an experienced plumber about a toilet that has become blocked?
If you’ve tried plunging your toilet, but it isn’t unblocking, or you think there’s a larger issue with your plumbing system that’s causing frequent blockages, you need to contact an experienced professional plumber such as Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers . We have many years of experience tackling all kinds of plumbing problems and can swiftly diagnose and resolve any issues with the least disruption to your home.
Do I need to get my drains cleared?
It is suggested that you have the drains cleaned out by professionals like Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers every 1-2 years. This will reduce the chance of blockages and help keep your plumbing system operating smoothly. If you regularly encounter blockages in your drains or slow draining water, despite being careful to not block the drains, then annual cleaning could be beneficial.
These techniques are fairly simple to implement, and most of these items are readily available to homes. If you’re experiencing a toilet that is blocked, before panicking after attempting all these strategies, you should contact Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers ‘s expert plumbers located in Melbourne , if you’re seeking professional help with the problem of blocked toilets.
Additional Information
- Say No to Chemical Drain Cleaners: How They Can Damage Your Pipes
- The Benefits of CCTV Drain Inspections for Blocked Drains and Corroded Pipes
- Future-Proofing Your Plumbing System with CCTV Drain Inspection
- Reasons Why CCTV Drain Inspection is a Must Before Purchasing a Property
- The Pros and Cons of Clearing Blocked Drains Yourself or Hiring a Professional
- The Benefits of Unblocking Blocked Drains for Your Business
- Avoid Expensive Repairs with Regular CCTV Drain Inspections
- When to Schedule a Professional Drain Cleaning Service
- The Importance of CCTV Drain Inspection in Commercial Properties
- DIY Drain Cleaning: How to Safely Tackle Clogged Drains
