What to Do When Your Toilet is Blocked: A Step-by-Step Guide
Toilet blockages can occur at any time and are a common issue for homeowners. They can be uncomfortable, messy, and inconvenient and require immediate attention. However, you do not always require an plumber right away. In this blog we’ll guide you through a few easy steps to clear 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 start we must be prepared with these tools at hand:
- Rubber Gloves
- Plunger
- Baking Soda and Vinegar (Optional)
- Wire Coat Hanger or plumbing Snake (Optional)
Step 1: Close your water source valve.
The first thing you need to do when you encounter a blocked toilet is to turn off the supply of water that is behind the toilet. This will ensure that there is no further water entering the tank as you are working to unblock it. The valve is usually situated near to the base of tank on the other side.
Step 2: Be sure to protect yourself with rubber gloves.
Hands must be protected from germs or bacteria present in your toilet by wearing 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 effective tool to use for cleaning toilets that are blocked. First, push down gently upon the plunger until all air is removed from it, then press firmly over the toilet bowl. Then, start to plunge continuously up and down for around 20 minutes. The suction generated through plunging back and forth can help clear any obstructions.
Tips:
- Be sure to use a powerful but controlled motion.
- Place holes around sinks or shower drains if they are close enough to prevent air pressure escaping 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 1 cups of white vinegar to the toilet. Allow the mixture to settle for approximately 15 minutes. It will begin to bubble before it slows down you can pour hot water down (not overly hot) to eliminate the blockage.
Step 5 Step 5: Use a wire coat hanger or a plumbing snake.
If both plunging and baking soda/vinegar techniques have failed to clear the clog, then it’s the time to employ the wire coat hanger or plumbing snake. Straighten the coat hanger’s cable until you are left with a thin and long wire with a hook bent at one end. You can also use the plumbing snake. It is specifically designed for clearing drain blockages. Put the tool in your toilet drain hole and twist, turn, push and pull till you experience resistance; there’s usually a blockage is. Make an effort to break the blockages by using a back and forth motion without damaging your pipeline.
Note:
- Never overdo pushing or pulling actions too hard, as they could make things worse
Step 6: Restart the water supply and check the result.
Once you’ve cleared up any blockages, it is important to switch on the valve for water flow that is behind the toilet bowl. 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?
One of the most obvious indications of a toilet that is blocked is when water rises to the brim after flushing. There is a possibility that the water drains in a slow manner, or hear the sound of gurgling through the toilet.
What can I do if my bathroom is blocked?
If you believe your toilet is blocked then avoid flushing it once more as this could result in flooding. Instead, turn off your water source valve on the side of the toilet. Then utilize a plunger to eliminate any blockages. If that doesn’t work, call Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumber for professional help.
Can I stop my toilet from becoming blocked?
Yes! There are many actions you can take to keep your toilet from getting blocked, including avoiding the flushing of non-degradable things like toiletries, wet wipes or cotton wool into the toilet. Avoid pouring grease or oil down the sink as it will cause it to solidify and block pipes.
When should I contact a professional plumber for a toilet that has become blocked?
If you’ve tried flushing 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 like Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumber . We’ve got years of experience with various plumbing issues and are able to quickly identify and address any issues that cause disruption to your home.
When should I have my drains cleaned?
It is recommended to have clean your drains by professionals like Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumber every 1-2 years. This will reduce the chance of blockages and ensure that your plumbing system running smoothly. If, however, you often experience drain blockages or slow draining of water despite taking precautions not to clog them, then regular cleaning could be beneficial.
These techniques are fairly simple to carry out and the majority of these items are readily available in households. If you’re having trouble with your toilets, don’t be worrying after trying the methods, contact Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumber ‘s expert plumbers located in Melbourne , if you’re in search of professional assistance with your blocked toilets.
Additional Information
- Preventing Leaks and Blockages: Understanding Pipe Relining Services
- The Ultimate Guide to Unclogging Your Drain Without Professional Help
- Don’t Get Caught Unprepared! What You Need to Do Before a CCTV Drain Inspection
- Top Ways to Avoid Drain Cleaning Emergencies
- CCTV Drain Inspections: A faster, Accurate and Effective Means of Identifying Root Issues in Drains
- How to Tell You Need Drain Clearing Services for Your Business
- Is It Time for a CCTV Drain Inspection? Here's What You Need to Know
- Save Money and Time with Preventative Drain Care Practices
- Why CCTV Drain Inspection is Essential for Maintaining Clean and Healthy Environment?
- How to Prevent Your Drains from Getting Blocked
