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. It’s unpleasant and messy and require immediate attention. But, you don’t necessarily have to call a plumber immediately. In this blog we’ll take you through some simple steps to unclog your toilet within a matter of minutes.
Key Takeaways
- Toilet blockages can be resolved by using simple tools like a plunger baking soda
The tools you’ll need
Before we begin it is essential to be prepared with these tools at hand:
- Rubber Gloves
- Plunger
- Baking Soda and Vinegar (Optional)
- Wire Coat Hanger or Plumbing Snake (Optional)
Step 1: Shut off the supply of water valve.
The first thing to do when confronted with a blocked toilet is to shut off the water supply valve on the toilet. This will ensure that no more water enters the tank while you try to get it unclogged. The valve is typically located near on the floor of your tank on the other side.
Step 2: Guard yourself by wearing rubber gloves.
Hands must be protected from any germs or bacteria that may be present in your toilet by wearing rubber gloves prior making use of any tools to unblock the drain.
Step 3: Use a plunger.
A plunger is the most efficient tool for clearing toilets of blockages. Begin by pressing down to the plunger, until all air is removed from it, then place it firmly on the hole in your toilet bowl. Then, start to plunge continuously up and down for around 20 seconds. The suction caused by the movement of the plunger will assist in removing any blockages.
Tips:
- Be sure to use a powerful but controlled motion.
- Fill in holes around sinks and shower drains if near to stop the release of pressure as you plunge.
Step 4: Try baking soda with vinegar.
If the plunge doesn’t work you can try this other method Pour half a cup of baking soda and 1 cups of white vinegar to the toilet. Allow the mixture to settle for around 15 minutes. It will begin to bubble, and when it stops it will be poured down with hot water (not at a boil) to flush out the obstruction.
Step 5 Step 5: Use an iron coat hanger made of wire or a plumbing snake.
If both plunging and baking soda and vinegar have not worked, then it is the time to employ a wire coat hanger or plumbing snake. You can straighten out the coat hanger’s cord until you have a thin, long wire with a hook bent on one side or the plumbing snake, which is made specifically to clear drain obstructions. Put the tool in the drain hole of your toilet and twist and turn, push to the point where you can feel a resistance. this is where the blockage typically occurs. Be gentle and try to break the blockages by using a back and forth motion but without causing any damage to the pipeline.
Note:
- Don’t push or pull actions with force as they may create more problems.
Step 6: Switch on the water supply and test the result.
After you have cleared any blockages, it is crucial to turn off your water valve on the toilet bowl. Then 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. |
Frequently Asked Question
How do I know if my toilet is blocked?
Some of the more frequent indicators of a clogged toilet is when the water level rises to the brim after flushing. It is also possible to notice that the water drains slowly or you hear sounds of gurgling coming from the toilet.
What can I do if the toilet is blocked?
If you believe your toilet has been blocked and you are unable to flush it, do not attempt to flush it in the future as this could cause flooding. Instead, turn off the supply of water valve behind the toilet and employ a plunger to try and remove any blockages. If that doesn’t work then call Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumbing for professional help.
How can I stop my toilet from becoming blocked?
Yes! There are many ways to keep your toilet from being blocked. This includes avoiding the flushing of non-degradable things like the sanitary products, wet wipes or cotton wool in the toilet. Also, avoid pouring grease or oil down the sink as it will cause it to solidify and cause blockages to pipes.
When should I call a professional plumber to resolve an unblocking toilet?
If you’ve tried plunging the toilet, but it doesn’t clear or you believe there’s a larger issue with your plumbing system causing frequent blockages, it’s time to contact a professional plumber like Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumbing . We’ve got years of experience in dealing with every kind of plumbing issue that we can quickly detect and fix any issues with minimal disruption to your home.
What is the best frequency to schedule my drains cleaned?
It is recommended to have the drains cleaned out by experts like Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumbing every 1-2 years. This can prevent blockages and ensure that your plumbing system running smoothly. If, however, you often suffer from blockages to your drains or slow drainage of water despite trying to avoid clogging them, then cleaning your drains every year could be beneficial.
These procedures are fairly easy to apply in the majority of cases, and these items are readily available in homes. If you’re facing a blocked toilet, prior to worrying after trying the techniques, call Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumbing ‘s expert plumbers located in Adelaide , if you’re in search of professional assistance for the problem of blocked toilets.
Additional Information
- The Do's and Don'ts of Keeping Your Drains Free from Blockages
- Reducing the Risks of Drainage Problems: How CCTV Drain Inspection Can Help
- Drains 101: Essential Tips for Keeping Your Pipes in Good Condition
- Why Condo Complexes are Switching to Trenchless Pipe Relining Methods
- Don't Let These Common Mistakes Clog Your Pipes
- The Importance of CCTV Drain Inspections in Preventing Expensive Property Damage
- The Importance of CCTV Drain Inspection in Commercial Properties
- From Clearing Clutter to Securing Access Points: The Preparations You Need for a Successful CCTV Drain Inspection
- The Dangers of Using Chemical Drain Unblockers
- The Importance of Professional Drain Cleaning for Your Family's Health and Safety
