What to Do When Your Toilet is Blocked: A Step-by-Step Guide
Toilet blockages can occur at any time and are a common problem for households. It can be unpleasant messy and uninspiring, and require immediate attention. But, you don’t necessarily require the plumber immediately. In this blog we’ll guide you through simple steps to unclog your toilet in no time.
Key Takeaways
- Toilet blockages can be solved using simple tools and techniques like a plunger baking soda
The tools you’ll need
Before we begin it’s important to have these tools in your arsenal:
- Rubber Gloves
- Plunger
- Baking Soda and Vinegar (Optional)
- Wire Coat Hanger or plumbing Snake (Optional)
Step 1: Switch off the supply of water valve.
The first thing you should do when faced with a blocked toilet is shutting off the supply of water in front of the toilet. This is to ensure that no water can enter the tank during your attempt to clear it. The valve is typically found near the bottom of the tank on the other side.
Step 2: Guard yourself by wearing rubber gloves.
Hands must be protected from any germs or bacteria found in your toilet bowl by wearing rubber gloves prior to using any tools that help in unclogging.
Step 3: Use a plunger.
The plunger is by far the most efficient method for clearing up blocked toilets. The first step is to gently push down to the plunger, until air is evacuated from it. then place it firmly on the hole in your toilet bowl and start plunging quickly up and down for approximately 20 minutes. The suction that is created through plunging back and forth will remove any blockages.
Tips:
- Use a firm but controlled movement.
- Fill in holes around sinks and shower drains if they are near to stop the pressure of air from escape as you plunge.
Step 4: Test baking soda and vinegar mixture.
If the plunge doesn’t work, try this next tactic - pour half a cup of baking soda as well as one cup of vinegar into the toilet bowl. Let this mixture settle for approximately 15 minutes. It may fizz, and when it stops then pour boiling water down (not boiling) to eliminate the blockage.
Step 5: Use a wire coat hanger or plumbing snake.
If plunging, baking soda and vinegar have not worked the problem, it’s the time to employ the wire coat hanger or plumbing snake. Make sure you straighten your coat hanger’s wire until you have a thick, thin wire that has a hook bent on one side or the plumbing snake that was made specifically to clear drain clogs. Place the snake into the drain hole in your toilet and twist and turn, push or pull until you feel a resistance. this is where the blockage typically is. Make an effort to break the blockages by using a back and forth motion but without causing any damage to the pipeline.
Note:
- Be careful not to push or pull actions with force as they may result in more damage.
Step 6: Turn on the water supply, and then check the results.
Once you’ve eliminated any blockages, it is essential to turn on your water valve in your toilet bowl again. After that, flush it a few times to make sure 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. |
FAQs
How can I tell when my toilet has become blocked?
Some of the more obvious symptoms of a blocked toilet is when the water level rises to the top of the bowl after flushing. You may also notice that the water drains slowly, or you may hear the sound of gurgling from the toilet.
What can I do if my bathroom is blocked?
If you suspect your toilet has been blocked be sure to avoid flushing it over again since this could result in flooding. Instead, shut off the supply of water valve on the side of the toilet. Then use a plunger to try to clear any obstructions. If that doesn’t work you can call Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbing for professional help.
Can I stop my toilet from becoming blocked?
Yes! There are many ways to prevent your toilet from getting blocked, including avoiding the flushing of non-degradable things like Wet wipes, sanitary products or cotton wool in the toilet. It is also important to avoid spilling oil or grease down the sink, as it can cause solidification and cause blockages to pipes.
When should I contact an experienced plumber to fix the problem of a toilet that is blocked?
If you’ve tried splurging your toilet, but it does not unblock, or you suspect there’s a larger issue with your plumbing system that’s causing frequent blockages, it’s the right time to seek out a professional plumber like Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbing . We have years of experience tackling various plumbing issues and are able to quickly identify and fix any issues that cause disruption to your home.
What is the best frequency to get my drains cleaned?
It is recommended that you get your drains cleaned by professionals like Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbing every 1-2 years. This will reduce the chance of obstructions and keep your plumbing system running smoothly. However, if you frequently encounter blockages in your drains or slow draining of water despite taking precautions not to clog them, then regular cleaning is beneficial.
These techniques are fairly simple to carry out as the majority of items are readily available to households. When facing blocked toilets before getting anxious after trying all the strategies, you should contact Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbing ‘s expert plumbers located in Melbourne , if you’re in search of professional assistance with the problem of blocked toilets.
Additional Information
- The Benefits of CCTV Drain Inspections for Blocked Drains and Corroded Pipes
- The Ultimate Guide to Drain Clearing Services
- 5 Ways to Keep Your Drains Clear and Running Smoothly
- Save Future Expenses with CCTV Drain Inspection for Home Buyers
- How CCTV Drain Inspection Helps in Saving Time and Money on Plumbing Repairs?
- How to Prevent Your Drains from Getting Blocked
- Uncovering Hidden Damage with a Professional CCTV Drain Inspection
- Don’t Get Caught Unprepared! What You Need to Do Before a CCTV Drain Inspection
- Why Regular Drain Cleaning Should Be Part of Your Home Maintenance Routine
- Dealing with Blocked Drains: DIY Techniques vs Professional Services
