What to Do When Your Toilet is Blocked: A Step-by-Step Guide
Toilet blockages can occur at any time and are a common problem for households. They can be uncomfortable and messy and require immediate attention. However, you do not always have to contact a plumber immediately. In this blog, we will guide you through simple ways to clean your toilet within a matter of minutes.
Key Takeaways
- Toilet blockages can be resolved using simple tools and techniques such as a plunger, baking soda
The tools you’ll need
Before we start it is essential to be prepared with these tools at hand:
- Rubber Gloves
- Plunger
- Baking Soda and Vinegar (Optional)
- A Wire Coat hanger, or a Plumbing Snake (Optional)
Step 1: Turn off the supply of water valve.
The first thing to do when faced with a blocked toilet is turning off the water supply valve that is behind the toilet. This will ensure that no water will enter the tank as you attempt to clear it. The valve usually is situated at the bottom of the tank on the other side.
Step 2: Make sure you are protected with rubber gloves.
You must protect your hands against germs and bacteria found in your toilet bowl by wearing rubber gloves prior using any tools that help in unclogging.
Step 3: Use a plunger.
A plunger is without doubt the most effective tool for getting rid of blocked toilets. First, push down gently upon the plunger until air is evacuated from it. then press it hard over the hole in your toilet and begin to plunge upwards and downwards for about 20 minutes. The suction that is created when you plunge back and forth will assist in removing any blockages.
Tips:
- Ensure you use a forceful but controlled movement.
- Place holes around sinks or shower drains, if they are close enough to prevent the pressure of air from escape as you plunge.
Step 4: Make a baking soda and vinegar mixture.
If plunges don’t work you can try this other method - pour half a cup of baking soda and a tablespoon of vinegar in the bowl. The mixture should sit for 15 to 20 minutes. It will begin to bubble, and when it stops, pour hot water down (not boiling) to clear the obstruction.
Step 5 Step 5: Use a coat hanger with wire or plumbing snake.
If both plunging and baking soda/vinegar methods have failed and you are in need of a solution, it’s time to try the wire coat hanger or plumbing snake. Make sure you straighten your coat hanger’s cable until you have a thick, thin wire that has hooks that are bent at one end. You can also use it as a plumbing snake, which was designed specifically for clearing drain clogs. Put the tool in the drain hole on your toilet, and then twist around, twist, push at the same time until you sense resistance. that’s where the blockage usually occurs. Be gentle and try to break any blockages using back-and-forth motion without damaging the pipeline.
Note:
- Don’t push or pull actions hard as they can cause more harm.
Step 6: Restart the water supply, and then check the result.
Once you’ve cleared up any blockages, it is vital to turn on the supply of water behind your toilet. 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. |
Frequently Asked Question
How do I know if my toilet is blocked?
Some of the more obvious symptoms of a blocked toilet is when water levels rise to the top of the bowl after flushing. It is also possible to notice that the water drains in a slow manner, or hear noises of gurgling coming out of the bathroom.
What can I do if my toilet is blocked?
If you suspect the toilet is blocked, avoid trying to flush it over again since this could result in flooding. Instead, shut off the water supply to the valve on the side of the toilet. Then employ a plunger to try to remove any obstruction. If this fails, call Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumber for professional help.
Can I stop my toilet from becoming blocked?
Yes! There are a variety of actions you can take to stop your toilet from being blocked. This includes avoiding flushing non-degradable products like sanitary products, wet wipes or cotton wool into the toilet. Also, avoid the practice of pouring oil or grease down the sink which can solidify and block pipes.
What is the best time to call a professional plumber to resolve the problem of a toilet that is blocked?
If you’ve tried splurging your toilet, but it isn’t unblocking, or you think that there’s a problem with your plumbing system that is causing frequent blockages, it’s the right time to seek out an experienced plumber such as Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumber . We have many years of experience in dealing with every kind of plumbing issue and are able to quickly identify and resolve any issues with minimal disruption to your home.
How often should I get my drains cleaned?
It’s recommended that you have clean your drains by professionals like Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumber every 1-2 years. This will reduce the chance of obstructions and keep your plumbing system operating smoothly. If you regularly suffer from blockages to your drains or slow draining of water despite making sure you are taking steps to prevent clogging the drains, then annual cleaning could be beneficial.
These strategies are simple to execute and the majority of these products are easily available in households. When facing blocked toilets before being anxious after attempting the methods, contact Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumber ‘s expert plumbers located in Adelaide , if you’re in search of professional assistance with the problem of blocked toilets.
Additional Information
- The Benefits of Using CCTV Drain Inspection for Pipe Relining Services
- Preventing Clogs and Blockages: Best Practices for Maintaining Your Drains
- The Ultimate Guide to Drain Clearing Services
- The Dangers of Using Chemical Drain Unblockers
- Natural Methods for Keeping Your Shower Drain Free of Blockages
- Why Condo Complexes are Switching to Trenchless Pipe Relining Methods
- Protect Your Home Investment by Conducting A CCTV Drain Inspection Prior Purchase
- The Importance of Professional Drain Cleaning for Your Family's Health and Safety
- The Importance of CCTV Drain Inspection in Property Maintenance
- The Pros and Cons of Clearing Blocked Drains Yourself or Hiring a Professional
