What to Do When Your Toilet is Blocked: A Step-by-Step Guide
Toilet blockages can occur anytime and are a common problem for households. They can be unpleasant and messy, and require immediate attention. However, you do not always have to contact an plumber immediately. In this blog post we’ll take you through some simple steps to clear your toilet within a matter of minutes.
Key Takeaways
- Toilet blockages are easily remediated using simple tools and techniques like plungers, baking soda
The tools you’ll need
Before we start it is essential to have these tools in your arsenal:
- Rubber Gloves
- Plunger
- Baking Soda and Vinegar (Optional)
- A Wire Coat hanger, or a Plumber Snake (Optional)
Step 1: Switch off the valve for water flow.
The first step you must do when confronted with a blocked toilet is turning off the water supply valve that is behind the toilet. This is to ensure that no more water enters the tank while you are working to unblock it. The valve usually is located near in the middle of the tank, on one side.
Step 2: Make sure you are protected with rubber gloves.
Protect your hands 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 undoubtedly the most efficient method for clearing up blocked toilets. First, push down gently onto the plunger till all air escapes from it, then press it hard over the toilet bowl. Then, start to plunge vigorously up and down for around 20 seconds. The suction generated when you plunge back and forth will help remove any blockages.
Tips:
- Ensure you use a forceful but controlled movement.
- Cover holes around sinks or shower drains if they are close by to prevent the air from escaping when you plunge.
Step 4: Make a baking soda with vinegar.
If plunges don’t work you can try this other method Pour half a cup of baking soda as well as one cups of white vinegar to the toilet. Let the mixture sit for 15 to 20 minutes. It will fizz a bit then stop then pour boiling water down (not boiling) to remove the obstruction.
Step 5 Utilize a coat hanger that is wire or a plumbing snake.
If plunging, baking soda and vinegar have not worked to clear the clog, then it’s time to use an electric coat hanger or plumbing snake. The coat hanger should be straightened’s cord until you have a long thin wire that has hooks that are bent at one end, or you can use to use the plumbing snake which is specifically designed for clearing drain clogs. Put the tool in the drain hole in your toilet and then twist around, twist, push to the point where you can feel resistance; there’s usually a blockage occurs. Make an effort to break the blockages by using a back and forth motion without causing damage to your drainpipe.
Note:
- Don’t push or pull actions as they could make things worse
Step 6: Restart the water supply and check the result.
Once you’ve removed any blockages, it is important to switch on your water valve on your toilet bowl again. Make sure to flush it several times to make sure 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. |
FAQ
What can I do to tell if my toilet is blocked?
One of the most common indicators of a clogged toilet is when water rises to the top of the bowl after flushing. You may also notice that the water drains slowly, or you may hear gurgling sounds coming out of the bathroom.
What should I do if my bathroom is blocked?
If you suspect your toilet has been blocked be sure to avoid flushing it again as this can cause flooding. Instead, turn off the supply of water valve in front of the toilet and make use of a plunger to eliminate any blockages. If that doesn’t work then call Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumbing for professional help.
Do I have the ability to stop my toilet from becoming blocked?
Yes! There are a variety of ways to prevent your toilet from becoming blocked. These include avoiding flushing items that are not biodegradable, such as Wet wipes, sanitary products or cotton wool down the toilet. It is also important to avoid spilling oil or grease down the drain, which could cause solidification and block pipes.
When should I call a professional plumber for a toilet that has become blocked?
If you’ve tried to flush your toilet but it still isn’t unblocking, or you think that there’s a problem with the plumbing system, causing frequent blockages, it’s time to seek out a professional plumber, such as Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumbing . We’ve had years of experience tackling every kind of plumbing issue and are able to quickly identify and resolve any issues that cause impact on your property.
Do I need to have my drains cleaned?
It’s recommended that you have cleaning your drainage system by a professional like Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumbing every 1-2 years. This will prevent blockages and ensure that your plumbing system operating smoothly. If, however, you often have problems with drains blocking or slow drainage of water despite being careful to not block them, then yearly cleaning could be beneficial.
These strategies are simple to execute in the majority of cases, and these items are available in households. When facing blocked toilets before getting anxious after trying all the methods, contact Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumbing ‘s expert plumbers located in Adelaide , if you’re looking for professional help with the problem of blocked toilets.
Additional Information
- The Importance of CCTV Drain Inspections in Preventing Expensive Property Damage
- The Advantage of CCTV Drain Inspection in Detecting Root Infiltration Early
- Reducing the Risks of Drainage Problems: How CCTV Drain Inspection Can Help
- Understanding CCTV Drain Inspection and the Benefits for Your Home
- DIY Tips for Unclogging Your Shower Drain Without Harsh Chemicals
- Saving Time and Money with CCTV Drain Inspection for Drain Clearing
- The Importance of Professional Drain Cleaning for Your Family's Health and Safety
- The Dangers of Using Chemical Drain Unblockers
- The Ultimate Guide to Drain Clearing Services
- From Clearing Clutter to Securing Access Points: The Preparations You Need for a Successful CCTV Drain Inspection
