What to Do When Your Toilet is Blocked: A Step-by-Step Guide
Toilet blockages can occur at any time, and are a common household issue. They can be uncomfortable dirty, inconvenient, and messy and requires immediate attention. But, you don’t necessarily have to contact the plumber right away. In this blog post we’ll take you through the steps to clear your toilet within a matter of minutes.
Key Takeaways
- Toilet blockages can be solved with the use of simple tools like plungers, baking soda
The Tools You’ll Need
Before we begin it’s important to be prepared with these tools at hand:
- Rubber Gloves
- Plunger
- Baking Soda and Vinegar (Optional)
- Hook for the Wire Coat or plumbing Snake (Optional)
Step 1: Close the supply of water valve.
The first thing to do when confronted with a blocked toilet is to turn off the water supply valve in front of the toilet. This is to ensure that there is no further water entering the tank while you attempt to clear it. The valve is normally situated at on the floor of your tank, on the other side.
Step 2: Be sure to protect yourself with rubber gloves.
Your hands must be protected against germs and bacteria present in your toilet with rubber gloves prior to using any tools for unclogging.
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 onto the plunger till all air escapes from it, then place it in the toilet bowl. Begin to plunging vigorously up and down for around 20 minutes. The suction generated when you plunge back and forth will help remove any blockages.
Tips:
- Ensure you use a forceful but controlled movement.
- Cover holes around sinks or shower drains, if they are close by to prevent the air from escaping when you plunge.
Step 4: Make a baking soda with vinegar.
If you’re not able to get the plunge working 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 15 to 20 minutes. It will begin to bubble before it slows down it will be poured down with hot water (not boiling) to flush out the blockage.
Step 5: Use a coat hanger that is wire or plumbing snake.
If both plunging and baking soda/vinegar methods have failed, then it is time to use the wire coat hanger or plumbing snake. The coat hanger should be straightened’s wire until have a thin, long wire that has a hook that is bent on one side or your plumbing snake. It is made specifically to clear drain blockages. Install the snake in the drain hole of your toilet and then twist and turn, push to the point where you can feel resistance; this is where the blockage typically is. Gently try to break up the blockages by using a back and forth motion without causing damages in the pipeline.
Note:
- Be careful not to push or pull actions with force as they may result in more damage.
Step 6: Switch on the water supply and verify the result
Once you’ve cleared up any obstructions, it’s crucial to turn off the valve for water flow that is behind your toilet bowl once more. Make sure to flush it several times to make sure 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. |
Common Questions and Answers
What can I do to tell whether my toilet is clogged?
A typical signs of a blocked toilet is when the water fills up to the top of the toilet after flushing. There is a possibility that the water drains slowly, or you may hear the sound of gurgling from the toilet.
What should I do if the toilet is blocked?
If you believe your toilet is blocked be sure to avoid flushing it in the future as this could cause flooding. Instead, turn off the water supply to the valve that is behind the toilet, and employ a plunger to try to eliminate any blockages. If this doesn’t work then call Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumber for professional help.
Can I prevent my toilet from getting blocked?
Yes! There are many ways to avoid your toilet being blocked. This includes avoiding flushing items that are not biodegradable, such as sanitary products, wet wipes or cotton wool down the toilet. Also, avoid pouring grease or oil down the sink which can solidify and cause blockages to pipes.
When should I call an experienced plumber to fix a toilet that has become blocked?
If you’ve tried plunging into your toilet, but it isn’t unblocking, or you think there’s a bigger issue with the plumbing system, causing frequent blockages, it’s the right time to call in an experienced professional plumber such as Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumber . We have many years of experience tackling various plumbing issues and can swiftly diagnose and resolve any issues with minimal disruption to your home.
When should I have my drains cleared?
It is recommended to have clean your drains by a professional like Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumber every 1-2 years. This will help prevent blockages and help keep your plumbing system running smoothly. If, however, you often encounter blockages in your drains or slow draining of water despite trying to avoid clogging them, then cleaning your drains every year is beneficial.
These strategies are simple to carry out in the majority of cases, and these products are easily 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 seeking professional assistance for those blocked toilets.
Additional Information
- The Do's and Don'ts of Keeping Your Drains Free from Blockages
- Understanding CCTV Drain Inspection and the Benefits for Your Home
- Understanding the Technical Aspects of a CCTV Drain Inspection Report
- Save Money and Time with Preventative Drain Care Practices
- Top Ways to Avoid Drain Cleaning Emergencies
- Natural Methods for Keeping Your Shower Drain Free of Blockages
- Preventing Leaks and Blockages: Understanding Pipe Relining Services
- Is It Time for a CCTV Drain Inspection? Here's What You Need to Know
- CCTV Drain Inspection Technology: Detecting Corrosion in Sewer Pipes
- Why CCTV Drain Inspection is a Cost-Effective Solution for Your Plumbing Needs
