What to Do When Your Toilet is Blocked: A Step-by-Step Guide
Toilet blockages can occur anytime and can be a frequent household problem. They can be unpleasant and messy and require immediate attention. However, you don’t have to call the plumber right away. In this blog, we will guide you through a few easy steps to get your toilet unclogged within a matter of minutes.
Key Takeaways
- Toilet blockages can be cured by using simple tools such as plungers, baking soda
The tools you’ll need
Before we start, it’s essential to have these tools handy:
- Rubber Gloves
- Plunger
- Baking Soda and Vinegar (Optional)
- A Wire Coat hanger, or a Plumber Snake (Optional)
Step 1: Turn off the water supply valve.
The first step you must do when faced with a blocked toilet is to shut off water valves on the toilet. This is to ensure that no water can enter the tank while you try to get it unclogged. The valve is normally located near to the base of tank, on the other side.
Step 2: Guard yourself by wearing rubber gloves.
Your hands must be protected against germs and bacteria found in your toilet bowl with rubber gloves before using any tools for unclogging.
Step 3: Use a plunger.
A plunger is without doubt the most efficient tool for clearing up blocked toilets. The first step is to gently push down onto the plunger till air is evacuated from it. then press it hard over the hole in your toilet and begin to plunge upwards and downwards for approximately 20 minutes. The suction created through plunging back and forth can help clear any obstructions.
Tips:
- Make sure you are using a strong but controlled movement.
- Cover holes around sinks or shower drains, if they are close by to prevent air pressure escaping as you plunge.
Step 4: Make a baking soda and vinegar mixture.
If plunges don’t work then try this alternative method - pour half a cup of baking soda and a cups of white vinegar to the toilet. Let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes. It will begin to bubble, and when it stops, pour hot water down (not overly hot) to eliminate the obstruction.
Step 5: Use a coat hanger that is wire or plumbing snake.
If both plunging and baking soda and vinegar have not worked, then it is time to try a wire coat hanger, or plumbing snake. Straighten the coat hanger’s cord until you have a long thin wire with hooks that are bent at one end. You can also use to use the plumbing snake. It was made specifically to clear drain obstructions. Place the snake into the drain hole in your toilet and twist around, twist, push at the same time until you sense a resistance. this is where the blockage typically occurs. Gently try to break up the blockages by using a back and forth motion but without causing any damage to your drainpipe.
Note:
- Never overdo pushing or pulling actions as they could create more problems.
Step 6: Turn on the water supply and verify the results.
Once you’ve eliminated any obstructions, it’s essential to turn on the water supply valve that is behind your toilet. Then flush it several times to ensure that the water is flowing freely!
| 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
What can I do to tell if my toilet is blocked?
One of the most common indications of a toilet that is blocked is when water rises to the top of the bowl after flushing. There is a possibility that water drains away slowly, or you might hear sounds of gurgling coming from the toilet.
What can I do if my bathroom is blocked?
If you believe your toilet has been blocked and you are unable to flush it, do not attempt to flush it over again since this could cause flooding. Instead, turn off your water source at the valve that is behind the toilet, and use a plunger to try to eliminate any blockages. If that doesn’t work contact Sydney Plumber Blocked Drains for professional help.
Do I have the ability to stop my toilet from getting blocked?
Yes! There are many ways to keep your toilet from becoming blocked. One of them is to avoid flushing items that are not biodegradable, such as toiletries, wet wipes or cotton wool in the toilet. It is also important to avoid spilling oil or grease down the sink which can solidify and cause blockages to pipes.
When should I contact an experienced plumber to fix a blocked toilet?
If you’ve tried splurging your toilet but it still doesn’t clear or you believe that there’s a problem with your plumbing system causing frequent blockages, it’s time to contact an experienced professional plumber such as Sydney Plumber Blocked Drains . We have many years of experience tackling any plumbing problem that we can quickly detect and resolve any issues without causing any disturbance to the home.
When should I schedule my drains cleaned?
It is recommended that you get cleaning your drainage system by a professional such as Sydney Plumber Blocked Drains every 1-2 years. This can prevent blockages and keep your plumbing system running smoothly. If you regularly experience drain blockages or slow drainage of water despite being careful to not block the drains, then annual cleaning would 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 methods mentioned above – contact Sydney Plumber Blocked Drains ‘s expert plumbers located in Sydney , if you’re searching for professional help with those blocked toilets.
Additional Information
- Why CCTV Drain Inspections Should Be Part of Your Regular Maintenance Routine
- The Ultimate Guide to Drain Clearing Services
- Understanding CCTV Drain Inspection and the Benefits for Your Home
- Avoiding Clogged Drains: Tips for Homeowners
- Natural Methods for Keeping Your Shower Drain Free of Blockages
- CCTV Drain Inspection Technology: Detecting Corrosion in Sewer Pipes
- The Ultimate Guide to Unclogging Your Drain Without Professional Help
- Blocked Drain Emergency? Here’s What You Need to Know About DIY vs. Professionals
- Uncovering Hidden Damage with a Professional CCTV Drain Inspection
- The Advantage of CCTV Drain Inspection in Detecting Root Infiltration Early
