What to Do When Your Toilet is Blocked: A Step-by-Step Guide
Toilet blockages can occur at any time and are a common issue for homeowners. They can be unpleasant and messy and requires immediate attention. However, you don’t require an emergency plumber right away. In this blog we’ll take you through a few easy steps to unclog your toilet within a matter of minutes.
Key Takeaways
- Toilet blockages can be resolved with the use of simple tools such as a plunger, baking soda
The Tools You’ll Need
Before we start we must be prepared with these tools at hand:
- Rubber Gloves
- Plunger
- Baking Soda and Vinegar (Optional)
- Wire Coat Hanger or plumbing Snake (Optional)
Step 1: Shut off the supply of water valve.
The first thing you should do when faced with a blocked toilet is to turn off the water supply valve in front of the toilet. This step ensures that no water can enter the tank during your are working to unblock it. The valve is usually situated at the bottom of the 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 making use of any tools to unblock the drain.
Step 3: Use a plunger.
A plunger is undoubtedly the most effective tool for clearing toilets of blockages. The first step is to gently push down on the plunger until air escapes from it, then place it firmly on the toilet bowl and start plunging continuously up and down for around 20 minutes. The suction caused when you plunge back and forth will assist in removing any blockages.
Tips:
- Be sure to use a powerful but controlled motion.
- Make holes in the sinks or shower drains, if they are close enough to prevent the air from escaping when you plunge.
Step 4: Make a baking soda with vinegar.
If the plunge doesn’t work, try this next tactic to pour half a mug of baking soda and 1 cups of white vinegar to the toilet. The mixture should sit for 15 to 20 minutes. It will begin to bubble before it slows down it will be poured down with hot water (not boiling) to flush out the obstruction.
Step 5 Step 5: Use a wire coat hanger or a plumbing snake.
If plunging, baking soda and vinegar have not worked, then it is time to try a wire coat hanger or plumbing snake. Make sure you straighten your coat hanger’s wire until you have a thin, long wire with an angled hook at one end or use it as a plumbing snake, which is specially designed to clear drain blockages. Put the tool in your toilet drain hole and twist and turn, push and pull till you experience a resistance. there’s usually a blockage is. Make an effort to break any blockages with a back-andforth motion without causing damages in your pipe.
Note:
- Do not overdo pulling or pushing actions as they could cause more harm.
Step 6: Switch on the water supply, and then check the results.
Once you’ve removed any blockages, it is essential to turn on the valve for water flow on your toilet bowl again. Then flush it several times to make sure 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. |
FAQs
How can I tell whether my toilet is clogged?
The most typical indications of a toilet that is blocked is when water rises to the top of the bowl after flushing. It is also possible to notice that water drains away in a slow manner, or hear noises of gurgling coming through the toilet.
What can I do if my toilet is blocked?
If you believe your toilet has been blocked, avoid trying to flush it again as this can result in flooding. Instead, turn off your water source to the valve in front of the toilet and use a plunger to try to eliminate any blockages. If this fails you can call Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbing for professional help.
Can I stop my toilet from getting blocked?
Yes! There are a variety of ways to prevent your toilet from being blocked. This includes avoiding the flushing of non-degradable things like the sanitary products, wet wipes or cotton wool in 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 flushing the toilet, but it won’t unblock or you suspect there’s a larger issue with your plumbing system causing frequent blockages, you need to get in touch with a professional plumber, such as Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbing . We’ve had years of experience with various plumbing issues and can quickly diagnose and resolve any issues without causing any interruption to your house.
What is the best frequency to have my drains cleared?
It is suggested that you have clean your drains by professionals like Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbing every 1-2 years. This will prevent obstructions and keep your plumbing system in good working order. If, however, you often suffer from blockages to your drains or slow draining water, despite taking precautions not to clog them, then cleaning your drains every year would be beneficial.
These methods are relatively easy to apply and the majority of these items are readily available in homes. If you’re experiencing a toilet that is blocked, before worrying after trying the methods mentioned above – contact Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbing ‘s expert plumbers located in Melbourne , if you’re in search of professional assistance for your blocked toilets.
Additional Information
- Why Calling a Pro for Drain Cleaning is Safer and Smarter
- Unblocking Blocked Drains: How to Choose Between DIY or Professional Services
- The Ultimate Guide to Drain Clearing Services
- Save Future Expenses with CCTV Drain Inspection for Home Buyers
- 5 Ways to Keep Your Drains Clear and Running Smoothly
- Why CCTV Drain Inspection is a Cost-Effective Solution for Your Plumbing Needs
- Common Drain Cleaning Mistakes You Need to Avoid
- Uncovering Hidden Damage with a Professional CCTV Drain Inspection
- Why Trenchless Pipe Relining is the Future of Condominium Plumbing
- Dealing with Blocked Drains: DIY Techniques vs Professional Services