What to Do When Your Toilet is Blocked: A Step-by-Step Guide
Toilet blockages can occur at any time, and are a common household issue. It’s unpleasant messy and uninspiring, and require immediate attention. However, you do not always need to call a plumber right away. In this blog post, we will guide you through some simple steps to clear your toilet in no time.
Key Takeaways
- Toilet blockages can be solved with the use of simple tools like plungers, baking soda
The tools you’ll need
Before we get started it is essential to have these tools in your arsenal:
- Rubber Gloves
- Plunger
- Baking Soda and Vinegar (Optional)
- A Wire Coat hanger, or a Pipe Snake (Optional)
Step 1: Shut off the valve for water flow.
The first step you must do when confronted with a blocked toilet is shutting off the valve for water flow on the toilet. This ensures that no more water enters the tank as you work on unclogging it. The valve is usually situated near the bottom of the tank on one side.
Step 2: Be sure to protect yourself with rubber gloves.
Hands must be protected against germs and bacteria present in your toilet bowl by wearing rubber gloves prior to making use of any tool to clear the toilet.
Step 3: Use a plunger.
A plunger is the most efficient tool for cleaning toilets that are blocked. Begin by pressing down upon the plunger until air is removed from it, then press it hard over the toilet bowl. Then, start to plunge continuously up and down for about 20 seconds. The suction that is created when you plunge back and forth will help remove any blockages.
Tips:
- Make sure you are using a strong but controlled motion.
- Fill in holes around sinks and shower drains, if they are close by to prevent the air from escaping when you plunge.
Step 4: Make a baking soda and vinegar mix.
If plunging doesn’t work you can try this other method - pour half a cup of baking soda as well as one teaspoon of vinegar inside the bathroom bowl. The mixture should sit for approximately 15 minutes. The mixture will start to fizz before it slows down then pour boiling water down (not boiling) to eliminate the blockage.
Step 5 5. Use a wire coat hanger or a plumbing snake.
If both plunging and baking soda and vinegar have not worked to clear the clog, then it’s time to use a wire coat hanger, or plumbing snake. The coat hanger should be straightened’s wire until have a long thin wire that has a hook that is bent at one end or use the plumbing snake which was designed specifically for clearing drain clogs. Insert the tool into your toilet drain hole and twist, turn, push to the point where you can feel resistance; it’s the place where the blockage is. Make an effort to break any blockages using back-and-forth motion but without causing any damage to your pipe.
Note:
- Don’t push or pull actions too hard, as they could create more problems.
Step 6: Restart the water supply and test the result.
Once you’ve removed any obstructions, it’s vital to turn on the supply of water on your toilet. 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. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know when my toilet is not functioning properly?
One of the most obvious indications of a toilet that is blocked is when the water fills up to the brim after flushing. There is a possibility that the water drains slowly, or you might hear gurgling sounds coming out of the bathroom.
What should I do if the toilet is blocked?
If you believe your toilet is blocked then avoid flushing it over again since this could result in flooding. Instead, turn off the water supply valve on the side of the toilet. Then make use of a plunger to eliminate any blockages. If this doesn’t work then call Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumber for professional help.
Can I prevent my toilet from becoming blocked?
Yes! There are many things you can do to prevent your toilet from becoming blocked. One of them is to avoid flushing items that are not biodegradable, such as the sanitary products, wet wipes or cotton wool into the toilet. Avoid pouring grease or oil down the sink, as it can cause solidification and block pipes.
When should I contact a professional plumber for the problem of a toilet that is blocked?
If you’ve tried to flush into your toilet, but it isn’t unblocking, or you think there’s a bigger issue with your plumbing system that’s causing frequent blockages, you need to contact a professional plumber like Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumber . We have years of experience in dealing with various plumbing issues and can quickly diagnose and resolve any issues that cause impact on your property.
What is the best frequency to schedule my drains cleared?
It is suggested that you have the drains cleaned out by a professional such as Adelaide Blocked Drains Plumber every 1-2 years. This will prevent blockages and ensure that your plumbing system operating smoothly. However, if you frequently suffer from blockages to your drains or slow draining of water despite being careful to not block them, then cleaning your drains every year could be beneficial.
These strategies are simple to carry out, and most of these items are readily available to homes. If you’re experiencing a toilet that is blocked, before panicking after attempting all these strategies, you should 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
- Preventing Clogs and Blockages: Best Practices for Maintaining Your Drains
- Don't Let These Common Mistakes Clog Your Pipes
- Why You Should Choose CCTV Drain Inspection to Identify Root Infiltration in Your Plumbing System
- Avoiding Clogged Drains: Tips for Homeowners
- Is It Time for a CCTV Drain Inspection? Here's What You Need to Know
- The Benefits of Using CCTV Drain Inspection for Pipe Relining Services
- The Importance of Professional Drain Cleaning for Your Family's Health and Safety
- DIY Drain Cleaning: How to Safely Tackle Clogged Drains
- From Clearing Clutter to Securing Access Points: The Preparations You Need for a Successful CCTV Drain Inspection
- The Pros and Cons of Clearing Blocked Drains Yourself or Hiring a Professional
