What to Do When Your Toilet is Blocked: A Step-by-Step Guide

Toilet blockages can occur at any moment and are a common household issue. It can be unpleasant messy and uninspiring and require immediate attention. However, you do not always require the plumber right away. In this blog post we’ll take you through a few easy steps to get your toilet unclogged in no time.

Key Takeaways

• Toilet blockages can be resolved using simple tools and techniques like a plunger baking soda

The Tools You’ll Need

Before we begin, it’s essential to be prepared with these tools:

• Rubber Gloves
• Plunger
• Baking Soda and Vinegar (Optional)
• The Hanger for Wire Coats or the Plumber Snake (Optional)

Step 1: Shut off the water supply valve.

The first step you must do when confronted with a blocked toilet is to shut off the supply of water behind the toilet. This is to ensure that there is no further water entering the tank while you try to get it unclogged. The valve is usually located near the bottom of the tank on one side.

Step 2: Be sure to protect yourself with rubber gloves.

You must protect your hands against germs and bacteria found in your toilet bowl by wearing rubber gloves prior to making use of any tools to unblock the drain.

Step 3: Use a plunger.

A plunger is the most efficient method for clearing toilets of blockages. Begin by pressing down onto the plunger till air is evacuated from it. then press firmly over the toilet and begin to plunge continuously up and down for about 20 seconds. The suction that is created through plunging back and forth can help clear any obstructions.

Tips:

• Be sure to use a powerful but controlled movement.
• Fill in holes around sinks and shower drains if they are close enough to stop the air from escaping when you plunge.

Step 4: Make a baking soda and vinegar mix.

If plunges don’t work you can try this other method to pour half a mug of baking soda and 1 cup of vinegar into the toilet bowl. Allow the mixture to settle for about 15 minutes. It may fizz but when it ceases to fizz, pour hot water down (not at a boil) to flush out the blockage.

Step 5 Utilize a wire coat hanger or plumbing snake.

If plunging, baking soda/vinegar methods have failed, then it is the right time to utilize a wire coat hanger, or plumbing snake. Straighten the coat hanger’s wire until you have a thick, thin wire with a hook bent at one end, or you can use the plumbing snake. It was specifically designed for clearing drain blockages. Put the tool in the drain hole on your toilet, and twist to turn, push, at the same time until you sense a resistance. it’s the place where the blockage is. Gently try to break up any blockages with a back-andforth motion without damaging your pipeline.

Note:

• Be careful not to push or pull actions too hard, as they could result in more damage.

Step 6: Turn on the water supply and test the results.

Once you’ve eliminated any blockages, it is essential to turn on the water supply valve that is behind the toilet bowl. Make sure to flush it several times to make sure everything is running smoothly!

FAQs

How can I tell when my toilet is not functioning properly?

Some of the more common indicators of a clogged toilet is when the water level rises to the top of the toilet after flushing. You might also notice that water drains away in a slow manner, or hear gurgling sounds coming through the toilet.

What should I do if the toilet is blocked?

If you suspect the toilet is blocked be sure to avoid flushing it again as this can cause flooding. Instead, shut off the supply of water valve on the side of the toilet. Then employ a plunger to try and remove any blockages. If this doesn’t work contact Perth Blocked Drains Plumbers for professional help.

Can I prevent my toilet from becoming blocked?

Yes! There are several options to keep your toilet from getting blocked, including avoiding flushing non-degradable items such as toiletries, wet wipes or cotton wool into the toilet. You should also avoid the practice of pouring oil or grease down the sink which can solidify and block pipes.

What is the best time to call an experienced plumber about a toilet that has become blocked?

If you’ve tried splurging the toilet, but it won’t unblock or you suspect that there’s an issue in the plumbing system, causing frequent blockages, you need to contact an experienced professional plumber such as Perth Blocked Drains Plumbers . We have many years of experience dealing with all kinds of plumbing problems that we can quickly detect and fix any issues that cause disturbance to the home.

When should I get my drains cleaned?

It’s recommended that you have cleaning your drainage system by experts like Perth Blocked Drains Plumbers every 1-2 years. This will prevent blockages and ensure that your plumbing system in good working order. However, if you frequently encounter blockages in your drains or slow draining of water despite taking precautions not to clog them, then cleaning your drains every year is beneficial.

These strategies are simple to implement, and most of these items are readily available in households. If you’re having trouble with your toilets, don’t be getting anxious after trying all the techniques, call Perth Blocked Drains Plumbers ‘s expert plumbers located in Perth , if you’re looking for professional assistance with your blocked toilets.

Additional Information

• The Benefits of CCTV Drain Inspection: Beyond Unclogging Pipes
• CCTV Drain Inspections: Why They are Crucial in Detecting Drain Blockages
• The Importance of Professional Drain Cleaning for Your Family's Health and Safety
• Keep Your Home Safe by Hiring a Professional Drain Cleaning Service
• DIY Drain Cleaning: How to Safely Tackle Clogged Drains
• Inspecting Drains Using CCTV to Detect Root Infiltration: Benefits for Property Owners
• Why Pipe Relining is a Cost-Effective Solution for your Business� Plumbing Issues?
• The Ultimate Checklist for a Smooth-flowing CCTV Drain Inspection Experience
• The Risks of Unclogging Your Drains Without Professional Help
• The Importance of Regular Pipe Relining for Homeowners