What to Do When Your Toilet is Blocked: A Step-by-Step Guide
Toilet blockages can happen at any time and are a common problem for households. They can be uncomfortable, messy, and inconvenient, and require immediate attention. But, you don’t necessarily require an emergency plumber right away. In this blog we’ll walk you through simple steps to unclog your toilet in no time.
Key Takeaways
- Toilet blockages can be cured by using simple tools such as 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)
- Wire Coat Hanger or plumbing Snake (Optional)
Step 1: Turn off the supply of water valve.
The first step you must do when confronted with a blocked toilet is turning off the supply of water behind the toilet. This ensures that no more water enters the tank during your work on unclogging it. The valve usually is found near on the floor of your tank on one side.
Step 2: Be sure to protect yourself with rubber gloves.
Protect your hands from any germs or bacteria found in your toilet bowl with rubber gloves prior to making use of any tools to unblock the drain.
Step 3: Use a plunger.
The plunger is by far the most efficient tool for getting rid of blocked toilets. Begin by pressing down onto the plunger till all air escapes from it, then press it hard over the hole in your toilet bowl. Begin to plunging vigorously up and down for approximately 20 minutes. The suction generated by plunging back and forth will remove any blockages.
Tips:
- Use a firm 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: Make a baking soda and vinegar mixture.
If the plunge doesn’t work, try this next tactic 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. It may fizz before it slows down it will be poured down with hot water (not overly hot) to eliminate the obstruction.
Step 5 Step 5: Use an iron coat hanger made of wire or a plumbing snake.
If both plunging and baking soda or vinegar methods have failed, then it is time to use an electric coat hanger or plumbing snake. You can straighten out the coat hanger’s cable until you are left with a thin and long wire with a hook that is bent at one end or use to use the plumbing snake. It was specially designed to clear drain clogs. Put the tool in your toilet drain hole and then twist, turn, push to the point where you can feel resistance; this is where the blockage typically occurs. Make an effort to break any blockages with a back-andforth motion without damaging your pipe.
Note:
- Don’t push or pull actions as they could make things worse
Step 6: Restart the water supply and verify the results.
After you have cleared any blockages, it is vital to turn on the water supply valve that is behind your toilet bowl again. You should flush it a couple of times to make sure 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 Questions
What can I do to tell when my toilet is not functioning properly?
One of the most common signs of a blocked toilet is when water levels rise to the top of the toilet after flushing. It is also possible to notice that water drains away slowly, or you may hear noises of gurgling coming directly from your toilet.
What should I do if the toilet is blocked?
If you suspect the toilet is clogged then avoid flushing it over again since this could result in flooding. Instead, turn off the supply of water at the valve in front of the toilet and utilize a plunger to clear any obstructions. If that doesn’t work contact Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers for professional help.
How can I stop my toilet from getting blocked?
Yes! There are numerous options to stop your toilet from getting blocked, including avoiding the flushing of non-degradable things like sanitary products, wet wipes or cotton wool into the toilet. Avoid the practice of pouring oil or grease down the sink as it will cause it to solidify and cause blockages to pipes.
When should I contact 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 causing frequent blockages, you need to get in touch with a professional plumber, such as Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers . We’ve had years of experience in dealing with various plumbing issues and can swiftly diagnose and fix any issues with the least interruption to your house.
How often should I schedule my drains cleaned?
It’s recommended that you have cleaning your drainage system by a professional such as Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers every 1-2 years. This will reduce the chance of blockages and ensure that your plumbing system running smoothly. However, if you frequently encounter blockages in your drains or slow draining water, despite trying to avoid clogging the drains, then annual cleaning can be beneficial.
These techniques are fairly simple to carry out in the majority of cases, and these items are available in households. If you’re facing a blocked toilet, prior to worrying after trying the methods, contact Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers ‘s expert plumbers located in Melbourne , if you’re seeking professional help with your blocked toilets.
Additional Information
- Reasons Why CCTV Drain Inspection is a Must Before Purchasing a Property
- The Advantage of CCTV Drain Inspection in Detecting Root Infiltration Early
- Common Causes of Drain Blockages and How to Avoid Them
- The Do's and Don'ts of Keeping Your Drains Free from Blockages
- The Importance of CCTV Drain Inspection in Commercial Properties
- Prevent Expensive Repairs with Regular Drain Maintenance
- Understanding CCTV Drain Inspection and the Benefits for Your Home
- DIY Drain Cleaning: How to Safely Tackle Clogged Drains
- The Benefits of CCTV Drain Inspections for Blocked Drains and Corroded Pipes
- Top Ways to Avoid Drain Cleaning Emergencies
