What to Do When Your Toilet is Blocked: A Step-by-Step Guide
Toilet blockages can happen at any time and are a common issue for homeowners. They can be unpleasant dirty, inconvenient, and messy and requires immediate attention. However, you don’t always have to contact a plumber right away. In this blog we’ll take you through the ways to clean your toilet in no time.
Key Takeaways
- Toilet blockages are easily remediated using simple tools and techniques like a plunger baking soda
The tools you’ll need
Before we get started, it’s essential to 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: Switch off the water supply valve.
The first thing you should do when faced with a blocked toilet is turning off the valve for water flow on the toilet. This is to ensure that there is no further water entering the tank as you work on unclogging it. The valve usually is found near to the base of tank on the other side.
Step 2: Guard yourself with rubber gloves.
Hands must be protected from any germs or bacteria present in your toilet with rubber gloves before making use of any tool to clear the toilet.
Step 3: Use a plunger.
A plunger is the most effective tool to use for getting rid of blocked toilets. First, push down gently on the plunger until air is released, then place it firmly on the hole in your toilet bowl and start plunging quickly up and down for around 20 minutes. The suction created by the movement of the plunger will assist in removing any blockages.
Tips:
- Make sure you are using a strong but controlled motion.
- Cover holes around sinks or shower drains if near to stop the release of pressure as you plunge.
Step 4: Test baking soda and vinegar in a mixture.
If plunges don’t work you can try this other method add half a cup of baking soda and one teaspoon of vinegar inside the bathroom bowl. The mixture should sit for 15 to 20 minutes. The mixture will start to fizz but when it ceases to fizz it will be poured down with hot water (not boiling) to eliminate the obstruction.
Step 5 5. Use a coat hanger that is wire or plumbing snake.
If both plunging and baking soda or vinegar methods have failed, then it is time to use a wire coat hanger, or plumbing snake. The coat hanger should be straightened’s wire until have a thin, long wire with hooks that are bent at one end, or you can use the plumbing snake, which was specially designed to clear drain clogs. Install the snake in the drain hole on your toilet, and then twist and turn, push to the point where you can feel resistance; that’s where the blockage usually is. Make an effort to break any obstructions using a back-and-forth movement but without causing any damage to your drainpipe.
Note:
- Be careful not to push or pull actions too hard, as they could create more problems.
Step 6: Restart the water supply and verify the result
Once you’ve cleared up any obstructions, it’s essential to turn on the water supply valve on your toilet bowl again. Make sure to flush it several times to make sure that everything flows freely 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. |
FAQs
How do I know when my toilet has become blocked?
One of the most obvious indicators of a clogged toilet is when water rises to the top after flushing. You may also notice that the water drains slowly or you hear the sound of gurgling from the toilet.
What should I do if the toilet is blocked?
If you suspect your toilet is blocked be sure to avoid flushing it again as this can cause flooding. Instead, shut off your water source at the valve that is behind the toilet, and use a plunger to try to remove any obstruction. If this isn’t working, call Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumber for professional help.
Can I stop my toilet from getting blocked?
Yes! There are many actions you can take to avoid your toilet becoming blocked. One of them is to avoid flushing items that are not biodegradable, such as sanitary products, wet wipes or cotton wool down the toilet. Also, avoid using oil or grease in the drain, which could cause solidification and cause blockages to pipes.
What is the best time to call a professional plumber to resolve a toilet that has become blocked?
If you’ve tried flushing your toilet but it still isn’t unblocking, or you think there’s a larger issue with your plumbing system that’s causing frequent blockages, you need to call in a professional plumber, such as Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumber . We have years of experience with all kinds of plumbing problems and are able to quickly identify and correct any issue with the least disturbance to the home.
How often should I have my drains cleaned?
It’s recommended that you have your drains cleaned by experts like Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumber every 1-2 years. This can prevent blockages and keep your plumbing system running smoothly. If you regularly have problems with drains blocking or slow draining of water despite trying to avoid clogging them, then yearly cleaning is beneficial.
These methods are relatively easy to carry out and the majority of these items are readily available in homes. 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 searching for professional assistance with those blocked toilets.
Additional Information
- CCTV Drain Inspections: A faster, Accurate and Effective Means of Identifying Root Issues in Drains
- Natural Methods for Keeping Your Shower Drain Free of Blockages
- How to Prevent Your Drains from Getting Blocked
- Reasons Why CCTV Drain Inspection is a Must Before Purchasing a Property
- 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
- The Ultimate Guide to Unclogging Your Drain Without Professional Help
- How to Tell You Need Drain Clearing Services for Your Business
- Top Reasons to Avoid DIY Drain Unblocking
- Understanding the Technical Aspects of a CCTV Drain Inspection Report
