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

Toilet blockages can happen at any time, and are a common household issue. It’s unpleasant, messy, and inconvenient and require immediate attention. However, you don’t have to call a plumber immediately. In this blog post, we will guide you through simple ways to clean your toilet in no time.

Key Takeaways

• Toilet blockages can be resolved using simple tools and techniques 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)
• Hook for the Wire Coat or Plumbing Snake (Optional)

Step 1: Turn off the supply of water valve.

The first thing you should do when faced with a blocked toilet is turning off the water supply valve on the toilet. This ensures that no water can enter the tank during your work on unclogging it. The valve is normally found near the bottom of the tank on one side.

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

You must protect your hands from any germs or 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 without doubt the most effective tool for clearing up blocked toilets. Begin by pressing down onto the plunger till air is evacuated from it. then press firmly over the hole in your toilet bowl. Then, start to plunge continuously up and down for around 20 seconds. The suction that is created by the movement of the plunger will help remove any blockages.

Tips:

• Be sure to use a powerful but controlled movement.
• Make holes in the sinks or shower drains if they are close enough to prevent air pressure escaping as you plunge.

Step 4: Test baking soda and vinegar in a mixture.

If plunging doesn’t work, try this next tactic Pour half a cup of baking soda and 1 cup of vinegar into the toilet bowl. Allow the mixture to settle for around 15 minutes. It will fizz a bit then stop then pour boiling water down (not overly hot) to eliminate the obstruction.

Step 5 Step 5: Use a wire coat hanger or plumbing snake.

If plunging, baking soda/vinegar methods have failed and you are in need of a solution, it’s the right time to utilize an electric coat hanger or plumbing snake. Straighten the coat hanger’s cord until you are left with a thin and long wire with hooks that are bent at one end, or you can use your plumbing snake which is designed specifically for clearing drain clogs. Install the snake in the drain hole of your toilet and twist to turn, push, or pull until you feel a resistance. this is where the blockage typically is. Gently try to break up the blockages by using a back and forth motion without causing damage to your drainpipe.

Note:

• Never overdo pushing or pulling actions too hard, as they could cause more harm.

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

After you have cleared any obstructions, it’s essential to turn on the valve for water flow in your toilet bowl again. You should flush it a couple of times to ensure that everything is running smoothly!

FAQ

How can I tell if my toilet is blocked?

One of the most common symptoms of a blocked toilet is when water levels rise to the top after flushing. It is also possible to notice that the water drains slowly or you hear noises of gurgling coming from the toilet.

What should I do if my bathroom is blocked?

If you suspect your toilet is blocked be sure to avoid flushing it once more as this could result in flooding. Instead, shut off the water supply valve on the side of the toilet. Then employ a plunger to try to remove any obstruction. If that doesn’t work then call Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbing for professional help.

Can I stop my toilet from getting blocked?

Yes! There are many things you can do to prevent your toilet from becoming blocked. One of them is to avoid flushing non-degradable products like the sanitary products, wet wipes or cotton wool down the toilet. Also, avoid using oil or grease in the drain, which could cause solidification and block pipes.

When should I contact an experienced plumber about a blocked toilet?

If you’ve tried splurging your toilet but it still won’t unblock or you suspect there’s a bigger issue with your plumbing system causing frequent blockages, it’s the right time to contact an experienced plumber such as Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbing . We’ve had years of experience dealing with all kinds of plumbing problems that we can quickly detect and fix any issues that cause disruption to your home.

How often should I schedule my drains cleared?

It’s recommended that you have your drains cleaned by a professional like Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbing every 1-2 years. This can prevent blockages and help keep your plumbing system running smoothly. However, if you frequently suffer from blockages to your drains or slow drainage of water despite trying to avoid clogging them, then regular cleaning can be beneficial.

These techniques are fairly simple to implement as the majority of items are available in households. When facing blocked toilets before being anxious after attempting the methods, 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

• Dealing with Blocked Drains: DIY Techniques vs Professional Services
• 5 Ways to Keep Your Drains Clear and Running Smoothly
• CCTV Drain Inspection: Find Out How it Helps Pinpoint Root Infiltration in Your Pipes
• The Benefits of CCTV Drain Inspections for Blocked Drains and Corroded Pipes
• Avoid Expensive Repairs with Regular CCTV Drain Inspections
• How to Prevent Your Drains from Getting Blocked
• Why Pipe Relining is a Cost-Effective Solution for your Business’ Plumbing Issues?
• Why Trenchless Pipe Relining is the Future of Condominium Plumbing
• Why Regular Drain Cleaning Should Be Part of Your Home Maintenance Routine
• Why Calling a Pro for Drain Cleaning is Safer and Smarter