What to Do When Your Toilet is Blocked: A Step-by-Step Guide
Toilet blockages can occur at any moment and are a common household issue. It’s unpleasant and messy and require immediate attention. But, you don’t necessarily have to contact the plumber right away. In this blog we’ll take you through the steps to clear your toilet within a matter of minutes.
Key Takeaways
- Toilet blockages can be solved by using simple tools like plungers, baking soda
The Tools You’ll Need
Before we get started we must have these tools in your arsenal:
- Rubber Gloves
- Plunger
- Baking Soda and Vinegar (Optional)
- Hook for the Wire Coat or plumbing Snake (Optional)
Step 1: Turn off the supply of water valve.
The first step you must do when facing a clogged toilet is turning off water valves on the toilet. This will ensure that no water can enter the tank as you work on unclogging it. The valve usually is found near in the middle of the tank on one side.
Step 2: Be sure to protect yourself by wearing rubber gloves.
Your hands must be protected from potential bacteria or germs found in your toilet bowl by wearing rubber gloves prior 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 getting rid of blocked toilets. First, push down gently onto the plunger till all air escapes from it, then place it in the hole in your toilet bowl. Begin to plunging upwards and downwards for around 20 minutes. The suction caused when you plunge back and forth can help clear any obstructions.
Tips:
- Make sure you are using a strong but controlled movement.
- Fill in holes around sinks and shower drains if they’re close enough to stop the release of pressure as you plunge.
Step 4: Try baking soda and vinegar mix.
If you’re not able to get the plunge working Try this method to pour half a mug of baking soda and one teaspoon of vinegar inside the bathroom bowl. The mixture should sit for 15 to 20 minutes. It will begin to bubble but when it ceases to fizz then pour boiling water down (not at a boil) to clear the obstruction.
Step 5 5. Use a wire coat hanger or a plumbing snake.
If plunging, baking soda or vinegar methods have failed to clear the clog, then it’s the time to employ an electric coat hanger or plumbing snake. The coat hanger should be straightened’s wire until have a long thin wire that has a hook that is bent on one side or to use the plumbing snake that was made specifically to clear drain blockages. Put the tool in the drain hole in your toilet and twist around, twist, push at the same time until you sense a resistance. this is where the blockage typically is. Make an effort to break any blockages with a back-andforth motion without causing damage to the pipeline.
Note:
- Do not overdo pulling or pushing actions as they could create more problems.
Step 6: Turn on the water supply and test the results.
Once you’ve cleared up any obstructions, it’s important to switch on the supply of water in the toilet bowl. You should flush it a couple of times to ensure that the water is flowing freely!
| 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 & Answers
How can I tell when my toilet is not functioning properly?
The most common indicators of a clogged toilet is when water levels rise to the top after flushing. There is a possibility that water drains away slowly, or you might hear the sound of gurgling from the toilet.
What should I do if my toilet is blocked?
If you believe the toilet is blocked, avoid trying to flush it in the future as this could cause flooding. Instead, shut off water flow to the valve that is behind the toilet, and employ a plunger to try to clear any obstructions. 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 many actions you can take to avoid your toilet getting blocked, including avoiding flushing items that are not biodegradable, such as toiletries, wet wipes or cotton wool down the toilet. Avoid the practice of pouring oil or grease down the sink as it will cause it to solidify and block pipes.
What is the best time to call a professional plumber to resolve an unblocking toilet?
If you’ve tried to flush the toilet, but it isn’t unblocking, or you think there’s a bigger issue with your plumbing system causing frequent blockages, it’s the right time to contact an experienced plumber such as Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumber . We have many years of experience tackling various plumbing issues that we can quickly detect and address any issues with minimal impact on your property.
How often should I get my drains cleared?
It is suggested that you have the drains cleaned out by professionals like Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumber every 1-2 years. This will reduce the chance of obstructions and keep your plumbing system operating smoothly. If, however, you often have problems with drains blocking or slow draining of water despite trying to avoid clogging them, then cleaning your drains every year can be beneficial.
These strategies are simple to implement as the majority of items are available in households. If you’re facing a blocked toilet, prior to panicking after attempting all these strategies, you should contact Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumber ‘s expert plumbers located in Melbourne , if you’re in search of professional help with those blocked toilets.
Additional Information
- Why CCTV Drain Inspection is Essential for Maintaining Clean and Healthy Environment?
- Dealing with Blocked Drains: DIY Techniques vs Professional Services
- Why Trenchless Pipe Relining is the Future of Condominium Plumbing
- CCTV Drain Inspection Technology: Detecting Corrosion in Sewer Pipes
- Don’t Get Caught Unprepared! What You Need to Do Before a CCTV Drain Inspection
- Is It Time for a CCTV Drain Inspection? Here's What You Need to Know
- The Pros and Cons of Clearing Blocked Drains Yourself or Hiring a Professional
- Understanding CCTV Drain Inspection and the Benefits for Your Home
- How to Tell You Need Drain Clearing Services for Your Business
- The Ultimate Guide to Unclogging Your Drain Without Professional Help
