What to Do When Your Toilet is Blocked: A Step-by-Step Guide
Toilet blockages can happen at any moment and are a common household issue. It can be unpleasant dirty, inconvenient, and messy, and require immediate attention. However, you do not always require a plumber right away. In this blog post we’ll walk you through the ways to clean your toilet in no time.
Key Takeaways
- Toilet blockages can be resolved with simple tools and methods like a plunger baking soda
The Tools You’ll Need
Before we get started we must 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: Turn off the supply of water valve.
The first thing you need to do when facing a clogged toilet is to shut off the supply of water that is behind the toilet. This step ensures that no water can enter the tank as you work on unclogging it. The valve usually is situated near on the floor of your tank, on one side.
Step 2: Protect yourself by wearing rubber gloves.
Hands must be protected from any germs or bacteria present in your toilet with rubber gloves before using any tools for unclogging.
Step 3: Use a plunger.
The plunger is by far the most efficient method for clearing toilets of blockages. First, push down gently upon the plunger until air is released, then place it firmly on the toilet and begin to plunge continuously up and down for around 20 seconds. The suction created by plunging back and forth will help remove any blockages.
Tips:
- Make sure you are using a strong but controlled movement.
- Make holes in the sinks or shower drains if they are close enough to prevent the release of pressure as you plunge.
Step 4: Test baking soda and vinegar mix.
If the plunge doesn’t work Try this 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. The mixture will start to fizz before it slows down, pour hot water down (not hot) to eliminate the obstruction.
Step 5: Use a coat hanger with wire or plumbing snake.
If plunging, baking soda and vinegar have not worked and you are in need of a solution, it’s the time to employ an electric coat hanger or plumbing snake. Make sure you straighten your coat hanger’s cable until you have a thin, long wire with an angled hook at one end or use to use the plumbing snake which is specifically designed for clearing drain obstructions. Put the tool in the drain hole of your toilet and twist, turn, push or pull until you feel a resistance. there’s usually a blockage is. Gently try to break up the blockages by using a back and forth motion without damaging the pipeline.
Note:
- Don’t push or pull actions as they could create more problems.
Step 6: Turn on the water supply and verify the result.
Once you’ve removed any obstructions, it’s essential to turn on the supply of water behind your toilet bowl once more. After that, flush it a few times to ensure that all water flows smoothly 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. |
Common Questions & Answers
What can I do to tell when my toilet is not functioning properly?
The most common indications of a toilet that is blocked is when the water fills up to the top of the bowl after flushing. You might also notice that water drains away slowly, or you might hear noises of gurgling coming through the toilet.
What should I do if my bathroom is blocked?
If you suspect that the toilet is blocked be sure to avoid flushing it over again since this could result in flooding. Instead, shut off the water supply at the valve that is behind the toilet, and utilize a plunger and remove any blockages. If that doesn’t work contact Perth Blocked Drains Plumbers for professional help.
How can I stop my toilet from getting blocked?
Yes! There are many options to stop your toilet from becoming blocked. These include avoiding flushing non-degradable items such as toiletries, wet wipes or cotton wool into the toilet. Avoid the practice of pouring oil or grease down the sink, as it can cause solidification and block pipes.
When should I call a professional plumber to resolve the problem of a toilet that is blocked?
If you’ve tried plunging your toilet, but it isn’t unblocking, or you think that there’s a problem with your plumbing system that’s causing frequent blockages, you need to call in an experienced plumber such as Perth Blocked Drains Plumbers . We’ve had years of experience with every kind of plumbing issue and can quickly diagnose and address any issues with the least impact on your property.
How often should I get my drains cleared?
It is suggested that you have clean your drains by experts like Perth Blocked Drains Plumbers every 1-2 years. This will help prevent blockages and keep your plumbing system in good working order. However, if you frequently have problems with drains blocking or slow draining water despite being careful to not block them, then yearly cleaning could be beneficial.
These strategies are simple to apply as the majority of items are available in households. If you’re experiencing a toilet that is blocked, before getting anxious after trying all the methods, contact Perth Blocked Drains Plumbers ‘s expert plumbers located in Perth , if you’re searching for professional assistance for those blocked toilets.
Additional Information
- The Do's and Don'ts of Keeping Your Drains Free from Blockages
- Protect Your Home Investment by Conducting A CCTV Drain Inspection Prior Purchase
- The Risks of Unclogging Your Drains Without Professional Help
- Inspecting Drains Using CCTV to Detect Root Infiltration: Benefits for Property Owners
- When Should You Call A Professional To Clear Your Blocked Drain?
- The Ultimate Checklist for a Smooth-flowing CCTV Drain Inspection Experience
- DIY Drain Cleaning: How to Safely Tackle Clogged Drains
- Keep Your Home Safe by Hiring a Professional Drain Cleaning Service
- CCTV Drain Inspection: A Detailed Guide on What It Is and How It Works
- Say Goodbye to Messy Plumbing Repairs with Trenchless Pipe Relining
