What to Do When Your Toilet is Blocked: A Step-by-Step Guide
Toilet blockages can happen at any moment and can be a frequent household problem. They can be uncomfortable dirty, inconvenient, and messy and require immediate attention. However, you do not always need to call a plumber right away. In this blog we’ll take you through the ways to clean your toilet within a matter of minutes.
Key Takeaways
- Toilet blockages can be solved by using simple tools such as plungers, baking soda
The tools you’ll need
Before we start 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 Pipe Snake (Optional)
Step 1: Switch off the valve for water flow.
The first thing to do when confronted with a blocked toilet is to turn off the valve for water flow that is behind the toilet. This is to ensure that no more water enters the tank while you work on unclogging it. The valve is usually situated near the bottom of the tank on the other side.
Step 2: Guard yourself by wearing rubber gloves.
You must protect your hands from germs or bacteria that may be present in your toilet by wearing rubber gloves prior to making use of any tool to clear the toilet.
Step 3: Use a plunger.
A plunger is undoubtedly the most effective tool to use for clearing up blocked toilets. The first step is to gently push down upon the plunger until air escapes from it, then press firmly over the toilet bowl. Begin to plunging vigorously up and down for about 20 seconds. The suction that is created by the movement of the plunger will remove any blockages.
Tips:
- Ensure you use a forceful but controlled movement.
- Make holes in the sinks or shower drains if close enough to prevent the air from escaping when you plunge.
Step 4: Test baking soda with vinegar.
If the plunge doesn’t work then try this alternative method add half a cup of baking soda and one tablespoon of vinegar in the bowl. Let the mixture sit for around 15 minutes. It will fizz a bit, and when it stops then pour boiling water down (not at a boil) to eliminate the blockage.
Step 5 5. Use an iron coat hanger made of wire or a plumbing snake.
If both plunging and baking soda and vinegar have not worked the problem, it’s the time to employ an electric coat hanger or plumbing snake. You can straighten out the coat hanger’s wire until you have a long thin wire that has a hook that is bent at one end. You can also use it as a plumbing snake that was designed specifically for clearing drain obstructions. Put the tool in the drain hole on your toilet, and then twist to turn, push, at the same time until you sense a resistance. this is where the blockage typically is. Gently try to break up any obstructions using a back-and-forth movement but without causing any damage to your pipe.
Note:
- Don’t push or pull actions too hard, as they could result in more damage.
Step 6: Switch on the water supply and check the result
Once you’ve removed any blockages, it is vital to turn on your water valve that is behind your toilet bowl once more. 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. |
Common Questions and Answers
How do I know if my toilet is blocked?
One of the most typical indications of a toilet that is blocked is when the water fills up to the top of the bowl after flushing. You might also notice that water drains away slowly, or you may hear noises of gurgling coming out of the bathroom.
What can I do if my toilet is blocked?
If you believe your toilet has been blocked, avoid trying to flush it again as this can result in flooding. Instead, turn off the supply of water valve on the side of the toilet. Then use a plunger to try to clear any obstructions. If this isn’t working then call Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumber for professional help.
Can I prevent my toilet from getting blocked?
Yes! There are many ways to keep your toilet from getting blocked, including avoiding flushing items that are not biodegradable, such as toiletries, wet wipes or cotton wool into the toilet. Avoid spilling oil or grease down the sink as it will cause it to solidify and cause blockages to pipes.
When should I call an experienced plumber to fix the problem of a toilet that is blocked?
If you’ve tried plunging your toilet but it still doesn’t clear or you believe that there’s an issue in your plumbing system that is causing frequent blockages, it’s the right time to contact an experienced professional plumber such as Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumber . We have years of experience dealing with every kind of plumbing issue and are able to quickly identify and resolve any issues with minimal impact on your property.
When should I schedule my drains cleaned?
It’s recommended that you have cleaning your drainage system by a professional like Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumber every 1-2 years. This will help prevent obstructions and keep your plumbing system functioning 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 is beneficial.
These methods are relatively easy to execute as the majority of products are easily available in homes. If you’re experiencing a toilet that is blocked, before worrying after trying the techniques, call Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumber ‘s expert plumbers located in Adelaide , if you’re searching for professional assistance for the problem of blocked toilets.
Additional Information
- How to Tell You Need Drain Clearing Services for Your Business
- DIY Drain Cleaning: How to Safely Tackle Clogged Drains
- The Pros and Cons of Clearing Blocked Drains Yourself or Hiring a Professional
- Don't Let Your Blocked Drains Cause You Trouble
- How CCTV Drain Inspections Help Avoid Water Damage and Health Hazards
- The Dangers of Using Chemical Drain Unblockers
- Benefits of Pipe Relining for Your Blocked Drains Problem
- Is It Time for a CCTV Drain Inspection? Here's What You Need to Know
- Preventing Clogs and Blockages: Best Practices for Maintaining Your Drains
- Protect Your Home Investment by Conducting A CCTV Drain Inspection Prior Purchase
