What to Do When Your Toilet is Blocked: A Step-by-Step Guide
Toilet blockages can occur anytime and are a common household issue. They can be unpleasant messy and uninspiring and requires immediate attention. However, you don’t have to call a plumber immediately. In this blog we’ll guide you through a few easy ways to clean your toilet within a matter of minutes.
Key Takeaways
- Toilet blockages are easily remediated by using simple tools like a plunger 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: Shut off the water supply valve.
The first thing you need to do when faced with a blocked toilet is to turn off the valve for water flow behind the toilet. This ensures that there is no further water entering the tank during your are working to unblock it. The valve is normally situated at the bottom of the tank, on the other side.
Step 2: Make sure you are protected by wearing rubber gloves.
Protect your hands against germs and bacteria that may be present in your toilet by wearing rubber gloves prior using any tools for unclogging.
Step 3: Use a plunger.
A plunger is undoubtedly the most effective tool to use for clearing toilets of blockages. Begin by pressing down onto the plunger till air escapes from it, then place it in the hole in your toilet and begin to plunge upwards and downwards for approximately 20 seconds. The suction caused when you plunge back and forth will assist in removing any blockages.
Tips:
- Use a firm but controlled motion.
- Fill in holes around sinks and shower drains if they are close by to prevent the pressure of air from escape as you plunge.
Step 4: Try baking soda and vinegar in a mixture.
If the plunge doesn’t work then try this alternative method add half a cup of baking soda and one cups of white vinegar to the toilet. The mixture should sit for around 15 minutes. It will fizz a bit but when it ceases to fizz, pour hot water down (not boiling) to eliminate the obstruction.
Step 5 Utilize a coat hanger with wire or a plumbing snake.
If both plunging and baking soda/vinegar methods have failed to clear the clog, then it’s the time to employ the wire coat hanger or plumbing snake. The coat hanger should be straightened’s wire until you are left with a thin and long wire that has hooks that are bent at one end. You can also use the plumbing snake. It was specifically designed for clearing drain obstructions. Install the snake in your toilet drain hole and twist to turn, push, and pull till you experience resistance. there’s usually a blockage occurs. Gently try to break up any blockages with a back-andforth motion without causing damages in your drainpipe.
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 then check the result
Once you’ve removed any blockages, it is vital to turn on the water supply valve behind your toilet bowl again. After that, flush it a few times to ensure that everything is running smoothly!
| 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 Questions
How can I tell if my toilet is blocked?
One of the most obvious symptoms of a blocked toilet is when water rises to the top after flushing. You may also notice that the water drains slowly, or you may hear gurgling sounds coming through the toilet.
What can I do if my bathroom is blocked?
If you think your toilet has been blocked, avoid trying to flush it once more as this could result in flooding. Instead, turn off water flow at the valve that is behind the toilet, and utilize a plunger to remove any obstruction. If that doesn’t work you can call Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumbing for professional help.
Can I prevent my toilet from getting blocked?
Yes! There are a variety of ways to avoid your toilet becoming blocked. These include avoiding flushing non-degradable items such as toiletries, wet wipes or cotton wool in the toilet. Also, avoid using oil or grease in the sink as it will cause it to solidify and block pipes.
When should I call an experienced plumber about a blocked toilet?
If you’ve tried to flush the toilet, but it does not unblock, or you suspect there’s a larger issue with your plumbing system that’s causing frequent blockages, you need to contact an experienced plumber such as Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumbing . We have years of experience tackling any plumbing problem and can quickly diagnose and resolve any issues with the least impact on your property.
Do I need to have my drains cleared?
It is recommended to have your drains cleaned by professionals like Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumbing every 1-2 years. This will reduce the chance of blockages and help keep your plumbing system in good working order. If you regularly experience drain blockages or slow draining of water despite trying to avoid clogging them, then yearly cleaning could be beneficial.
These procedures are fairly easy to execute in the majority of cases, and these items are available in homes. If you’re experiencing a toilet that is blocked, before worrying after trying the techniques, call Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumbing ‘s expert plumbers located in Adelaide , if you’re searching for professional assistance for your blocked toilets.
Additional Information
- From Clearing Clutter to Securing Access Points: The Preparations You Need for a Successful CCTV Drain Inspection
- Drains 101: Essential Tips for Keeping Your Pipes in Good Condition
- Say Goodbye to Frequent Clogging: Reasons to Invest in Pipe Relining Services
- Why Condo Complexes are Switching to Trenchless Pipe Relining Methods
- Don't Let Your Blocked Drains Cause You Trouble
- Don't Let These Common Mistakes Clog Your Pipes
- DIY Tips for Unclogging Your Shower Drain Without Harsh Chemicals
- Saving Time and Money with CCTV Drain Inspection for Drain Clearing
- The Dangers of Using Chemical Drain Unblockers
- The Importance of Professional Drain Cleaning for Your Family's Health and Safety
