What to Do When Your Toilet is Blocked: A Step-by-Step Guide

Toilet blockages can happen at any time, and can be a frequent household problem. It’s unpleasant messy and uninspiring and require immediate attention. However, you don’t always have to call the plumber immediately. In this blog post we’ll take you through a few easy steps to unclog your toilet within a matter of minutes.

Key Takeaways

• Toilet blockages can be resolved with simple tools and methods such as plungers, 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)
• The Hanger for Wire Coats or the Plumber Snake (Optional)

Step 1: Switch off the valve for water flow.

The first thing you need to do when facing a clogged toilet is to turn off water valves behind the toilet. This step ensures that no water can enter the tank as you work on unclogging it. The valve is typically situated near in the middle of the tank on one side.

Step 2: Make sure you are protected with rubber gloves.

Your hands must be protected from potential bacteria or germs present in your toilet bowl by wearing rubber gloves prior using any tools that help in unclogging.

Step 3: Use a plunger.

A plunger is without doubt the most efficient method for getting rid of blocked toilets. First, push down gently upon the plunger until all air is evacuated from it. then press it hard over the hole in your toilet and begin to plunge vigorously up and down for approximately 20 minutes. The suction created when you plunge back and forth will remove any blockages.

Tips:

• Use a firm but controlled motion.
• Cover holes around sinks or shower drains if near to stop air pressure escaping as you plunge.

Step 4: Make a baking soda with vinegar.

If plunges don’t work Try this method add half a cup of baking soda and a teaspoon of vinegar inside the bathroom bowl. Allow the mixture to settle for about 15 minutes. It will begin to bubble but when it ceases to fizz you can pour hot water down (not at a boil) to clear the obstruction.

Step 5: Use an iron coat hanger made of wire or a plumbing snake.

If both plunging and baking soda/vinegar methods have failed the problem, it’s time to try a wire coat hanger, or plumbing snake. Straighten the coat hanger’s wire until have a long thin wire that has a hook bent at one end or use your plumbing snake, which is designed specifically for clearing drain blockages. Place the snake into your toilet drain hole and then twist around, twist, push to the point where you can feel resistance; it’s the place where the blockage is. Make an effort to break the blockages by using a back and forth motion but without causing any damage to the pipeline.

Note:

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

Step 6: Switch on the water supply and verify the result.

Once you’ve eliminated any blockages, it is vital to turn on the water supply valve on your toilet. Make sure to flush it several times to ensure that all water flows smoothly now!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when my toilet has become blocked?

Some of the more obvious indicators of a clogged toilet is when the water fills up to the top of the toilet after flushing. It is also possible to notice that the water drains slowly, or you may hear gurgling sounds coming through the toilet.

What can I do if my bathroom is blocked?

If you think your toilet is blocked then avoid flushing it once more as this could result in flooding. Instead, turn off the water supply at the valve that is behind the toilet, and employ a plunger to try to eliminate any blockages. If that doesn’t work you can call Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers for professional help.

Can I stop my toilet from getting blocked?

Yes! There are a variety of ways to stop your toilet from becoming blocked. These include avoiding flushing items that are not biodegradable, such as the sanitary products, wet wipes or cotton wool in the toilet. You should also avoid using oil or grease in the sink as it will cause it to solidify and cause blockages to pipes.

When should I contact an experienced plumber to fix a blocked toilet?

If you’ve tried plunging your toilet, but it isn’t unblocking, or you think there’s a larger issue with your plumbing system causing frequent blockages, it’s the right time to call in a professional plumber, such as Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers . We’ve got years of experience in dealing with various plumbing issues that we can quickly detect and fix any issues with minimal interruption to your house.

When should I get my drains cleared?

It is suggested that you have your drains cleaned by experts like Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers every 1-2 years. This will prevent blockages and help keep your plumbing system operating smoothly. However, if you frequently suffer from blockages to your drains or slow draining of water despite trying to avoid clogging them, then regular cleaning could be beneficial.

These strategies are simple to execute, and most of these items are available in households. If you’re having trouble with your toilets, don’t be panicking after attempting all these strategies, you should contact Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbers ‘s expert plumbers located in Melbourne , if you’re in search of professional help with your blocked toilets.

Additional Information

• Why Trenchless Pipe Relining is the Future of Condominium Plumbing
• 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 Do's and Don'ts of Keeping Your Drains Free from Blockages
• Don't Let Your Blocked Drains Cause You Trouble
• The Benefits of CCTV Drain Inspections for Blocked Drains and Corroded Pipes
• DIY Drain Cleaning: How to Safely Tackle Clogged Drains
• Future-Proofing Your Plumbing System with CCTV Drain Inspection
• The Importance of CCTV Drain Inspection in Commercial Properties
• Dealing with Blocked Drains: DIY Techniques vs Professional Services