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 messy and uninspiring and requires immediate attention. However, you do not always have to contact an plumber right away. In this blog post, we will guide you through simple ways to clean your toilet in no time.

Key Takeaways

• Toilet blockages are easily remediated using simple tools and techniques such as a plunger, baking soda

The tools you’ll need

Before we start we must be prepared with these tools:

• Rubber Gloves
• Plunger
• Baking Soda and Vinegar (Optional)
• A Wire Coat hanger, or a Plumbing Snake (Optional)

Step 1: Turn off your water source valve.

The first step you must do when you encounter a blocked toilet is shutting off the supply of water in front of the toilet. This ensures that no more water enters the tank as you are working to unblock it. The valve is usually found near on the floor of your tank on the other side.

Step 2: Protect yourself with rubber gloves.

Hands must be protected from any germs or bacteria present in your toilet with rubber gloves prior to making use of any tool to clear the toilet.

Step 3: Use a plunger.

A plunger is without doubt the most effective tool to use for cleaning toilets that are blocked. The first step is to gently push down onto the plunger till all air is evacuated from it. then press firmly over the toilet and begin to plunge upwards and downwards for approximately 20 seconds. The suction caused by plunging back and forth will help remove any blockages.

Tips:

• Use a firm but controlled motion.
• Fill in holes around sinks and shower drains if close enough to prevent air pressure escaping as you plunge.

Step 4: Make a baking soda and vinegar mix.

If the plunge doesn’t work then try this alternative method to pour half a mug of baking soda and one cup of vinegar into the toilet bowl. Let the mixture sit for 15 to 20 minutes. It will fizz a bit before it slows down then pour boiling water down (not hot) to eliminate the obstruction.

Step 5 Utilize a wire coat hanger or a plumbing snake.

If plunging, baking soda/vinegar methods have failed to clear the clog, then it’s time to try a wire coat hanger or plumbing snake. The coat hanger should be straightened’s wire until you have a long thin wire that has a hook bent at one end or use the plumbing snake that is specifically designed for clearing drain blockages. Place the snake into the drain hole in your toilet and then twist around, twist, push and pull till you experience resistance; this is where the blockage typically occurs. Gently try to break up the blockages by using a back and forth motion but without causing any damage to your drainpipe.

Note:

• Be careful not to push or pull actions hard as they can create more problems.

Step 6: Restart the water supply and verify the results.

After you have cleared any blockages, it is vital to turn on the valve for water flow in the toilet bowl. Make sure to flush it several times to make sure everything is running smoothly!

FAQs

How do I know when my toilet has become blocked?

One of the most typical symptoms of a blocked toilet is when the water fills up to the brim after flushing. There is a possibility that the water drains slowly or you hear sounds of gurgling coming out of the bathroom.

What can I do if the toilet is blocked?

If you suspect your toilet is blocked then avoid flushing it once more as this could cause flooding. Instead, shut off your water source valve that is behind the toilet, and use a plunger to try to remove any obstruction. If that doesn’t work, call Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers for professional help.

Can I prevent my toilet from getting blocked?

Yes! There are a variety of options 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 into the toilet. You should also avoid pouring grease or oil down the drain, which could cause solidification and block pipes.

When should I call an experienced plumber about an unblocking toilet?

If you’ve tried to flush the toilet, but it doesn’t clear or you believe that there’s an issue in your plumbing system that’s causing frequent blockages, you need to contact an experienced professional plumber such as Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers . We have years of experience in dealing with every kind of plumbing issue and are able to quickly identify and fix any issues that cause disturbance to the home.

Do I need to get my drains cleaned?

It is recommended that you get your drains cleaned by a professional like Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers every 1-2 years. This will help prevent blockages and help keep your plumbing system operating smoothly. However, if you frequently experience drain blockages or slow draining water despite making sure you are taking steps to prevent clogging them, then cleaning your drains every year could be beneficial.

These techniques are fairly simple to execute and the majority of these items are readily available in households. When facing blocked toilets before getting anxious after trying all the methods mentioned above – contact Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers ‘s expert plumbers located in Melbourne , if you’re looking for professional assistance with your blocked toilets.

Additional Information

• Reasons Why CCTV Drain Inspection is a Must Before Purchasing a Property
• Easy and Safe Ways to Get Rid of a Stubborn Shower Drain Blockage
• Saving Time and Money with CCTV Drain Inspection for Drain Clearing
• DIY Drain Cleaning: How to Safely Tackle Clogged Drains
• Say No to Chemical Drain Cleaners: How They Can Damage Your Pipes
• Avoid Expensive Repairs with Regular CCTV Drain Inspections
• The Benefits of CCTV Drain Inspections for Blocked Drains and Corroded Pipes
• The Importance of CCTV Drain Inspection in Commercial Properties
• Top Ways to Avoid Drain Cleaning Emergencies
• Understanding CCTV Drain Inspection and the Benefits for Your Home