What to Do When Your Toilet is Blocked: A Step-by-Step Guide
Toilet blockages can happen at any moment and are a common issue for homeowners. They can be uncomfortable, messy, and inconvenient and require immediate attention. However, you don’t always require an plumber right away. In this blog we’ll walk you through the steps to unclog your toilet in no time.
Key Takeaways
- Toilet blockages can be solved with the use of simple tools like 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)
- Hook for the Wire Coat or Pipe Snake (Optional)
Step 1: Shut off the water supply valve.
The first thing you need to do when facing a clogged toilet is to shut off the supply of water that is behind the toilet. This step ensures that no water will enter the tank as you try to get it unclogged. The valve usually is situated at in the middle of the tank on one side.
Step 2: Protect yourself with rubber gloves.
You must protect your hands from any germs or bacteria found in your toilet bowl with rubber gloves prior to making use of any tool to clear the toilet.
Step 3: Use a plunger.
A plunger is the most efficient method for cleaning toilets that are blocked. Begin by pressing down to the plunger, until air escapes from it, then press firmly over the toilet bowl. Then, start to plunge continuously up and down for about 20 seconds. The suction generated by the movement of the plunger will remove any blockages.
Tips:
- Make sure you are using a strong but controlled movement.
- Place holes around sinks or shower drains if they’re near to stop the release of pressure as you plunge.
Step 4: Make a baking soda and vinegar mixture.
If you’re not able to get the plunge working, try this next tactic - pour half a cup of baking soda and one cup of vinegar into the toilet bowl. Let this mixture settle for 15 to 20 minutes. It will begin to bubble before it slows down it will be poured down with hot water (not overly hot) to flush out the obstruction.
Step 5: Use an iron coat hanger made of wire or plumbing snake.
If both plunging and baking soda and vinegar have not worked the problem, it’s time to use the wire coat hanger or plumbing snake. The coat hanger should be straightened’s wire until you have a thin, long wire that has hooks that are bent on one side or your plumbing snake, which was made specifically to clear drain obstructions. Place the snake into the drain hole of your toilet and twist, turn, push to the point where you can feel a resistance. it’s the place where the blockage occurs. Make an effort to break any blockages with a back-andforth motion without causing damages in your pipe.
Note:
- Never overdo pushing or pulling actions as they could create more problems.
Step 6: Switch on the water supply and verify the results.
Once you’ve removed any obstructions, it’s vital to turn on your water valve behind your toilet bowl once more. You should flush it a couple of times to ensure that all water flows smoothly 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
How do I know whether my toilet is clogged?
The most frequent indications of a toilet that is blocked is when water rises to the top after flushing. You might also notice that the water drains slowly, or you might hear the sound of gurgling from the toilet.
What should I do if the toilet is blocked?
If you suspect that the toilet is blocked, avoid trying to flush it once more as this could cause flooding. Instead, shut off your water source to the valve on the side of the toilet. Then employ a plunger to try and remove any blockages. If that doesn’t work you can call Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumber for professional help.
Do I have the ability to stop my toilet from becoming blocked?
Yes! There are numerous actions you can take to stop your toilet from becoming blocked. One of them is to avoid flushing non-degradable products like Wet wipes, sanitary products or cotton wool in the toilet. Avoid using oil or grease in the sink, as it can cause solidification and block pipes.
When should I call a professional plumber to resolve a blocked toilet?
If you’ve tried to flush your toilet, but it isn’t unblocking, or you think that there’s a problem with your plumbing system causing frequent blockages, you need to call in a professional plumber like Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumber . We’ve had years of experience in dealing with all kinds of plumbing problems and are able to quickly identify and correct any issue with the least disturbance to the home.
What is the best frequency to schedule my drains cleaned?
It is recommended that you get the drains cleaned out by experts like Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumber every 1-2 years. This will reduce the chance of blockages and help keep your plumbing system running smoothly. However, if you frequently experience drain blockages or slow draining water, despite making sure you are taking steps to prevent clogging them, then yearly cleaning could be beneficial.
These methods are relatively easy to execute and the majority of these items are readily available in homes. If you’re experiencing a toilet that is blocked, before panicking after attempting all these techniques, call Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumber ‘s expert plumbers located in Melbourne , if you’re in search of professional assistance for those blocked toilets.
Additional Information
- The Ultimate Guide to Unclogging Your Drain Without Professional Help
- How to Tell You Need Drain Clearing Services for Your Business
- CCTV Drain Inspection Technology: Detecting Corrosion in Sewer Pipes
- Top Reasons to Avoid DIY Drain Unblocking
- Save Money and Time with Preventative Drain Care Practices
- The Pros and Cons of Clearing Blocked Drains Yourself or Hiring a Professional
- Why Trenchless Pipe Relining is the Future of Condominium Plumbing
- Understanding CCTV Drain Inspection and the Benefits for Your Home
- The Do's and Don'ts of Keeping Your Drains Free from Blockages
- Why CCTV Drain Inspection is a Cost-Effective Solution for Your Plumbing Needs
