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

Toilet blockages can happen at any time, and are a common issue for homeowners. They can be uncomfortable and messy and require immediate attention. However, you do not always have to call a plumber immediately. In this blog post we’ll walk you through simple steps to get your toilet unclogged within a matter of minutes.

Key Takeaways

• Toilet blockages are easily remediated with the use of simple tools like a plunger baking soda

The tools you’ll need

Before we get started it is essential to be prepared with these tools at hand:

• Rubber Gloves
• Plunger
• Baking Soda and Vinegar (Optional)
• Wire Coat Hanger or plumbing Snake (Optional)

Step 1: Switch off the water supply valve.

The first step you must do when confronted with a blocked toilet is turning off the valve for water flow on the toilet. This ensures that no water can enter the tank while you work on unclogging it. The valve usually is found near in the middle of the tank on the other side.

Step 2: Make sure you are protected with rubber gloves.

You must protect your hands 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 the most effective tool to use for cleaning toilets that are blocked. Begin by pressing down upon the plunger until air is removed from it, then place it firmly on the hole in your toilet bowl. Begin to plunging vigorously up and down for around 20 minutes. The suction generated by plunging back and forth can help clear any obstructions.

Tips:

• Make sure you are using a strong but controlled movement.
• Place holes around sinks or shower drains, if they are close by to prevent the release of pressure as you plunge.

Step 4: Try baking soda with vinegar.

If plunges don’t work then try this alternative method add half a cup of baking soda and one teaspoon of vinegar inside the bathroom bowl. Allow the mixture to settle for approximately 15 minutes. It will begin to bubble, and when it stops you can pour hot water down (not overly hot) to flush out the blockage.

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

If plunging, baking soda/vinegar techniques have failed to clear the clog, then it’s the time to employ the wire coat hanger or plumbing snake. The coat hanger should be straightened’s wire until are left with a thin and long wire that has an angled hook at one end or use the plumbing snake, which was specially designed to clear drain clogs. Insert the tool into your toilet drain hole and twist, turn, push at the same time until you sense resistance. this is where the blockage typically is. Gently try to break up any blockages using back-and-forth motion without causing damages in your drainpipe.

Note:

• Don’t push or pull actions too hard, as they could create more problems.

Step 6: Restart the water supply and test the result

Once you’ve eliminated any obstructions, it’s vital to turn on the water supply valve in your toilet bowl again. You should flush it a couple of times to make sure everything is running smoothly!

Common Questions & Answers

How do I know when my toilet is not functioning properly?

One of the most common indications of a toilet that is blocked is when water levels rise to the top after flushing. You might also notice that water drains away slowly, or you might hear the sound of gurgling directly from your toilet.

What should I do if my toilet is blocked?

If you suspect your toilet is blocked then avoid flushing it again as this can result in flooding. Instead, shut off the supply of water to the valve in front of the toilet and use a plunger to try to clear any obstructions. If this isn’t working then call Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbing for professional help.

Can I stop my toilet from becoming blocked?

Yes! There are numerous options to stop your toilet from becoming blocked. These include avoiding the flushing of non-degradable things like toiletries, wet wipes or cotton wool down the toilet. Also, avoid the practice of pouring oil or grease down the drain, which could cause solidification and block pipes.

When should I contact an experienced plumber to fix an unblocking toilet?

If you’ve tried to flush into your toilet, but it does not unblock, or you suspect that there’s an issue in the plumbing system, causing frequent blockages, you need to call in a professional plumber like Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbing . We have years of experience in dealing with various plumbing issues that we can quickly detect and fix any issues without causing any disruption to your home.

How often should I schedule my drains cleared?

It is recommended to have clean your drains by a professional such as Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbing every 1-2 years. This will help prevent blockages and help keep your plumbing system in good working order. However, if you frequently encounter blockages in your drains or slow drainage of water despite trying to avoid clogging the drains, then annual cleaning would be beneficial.

These techniques are fairly simple to apply, and most of these items are available in homes. If you’re facing a blocked toilet, prior to panicking after attempting all these strategies, you should contact Melbourne Blocked Drains Plumbing ‘s expert plumbers located in Melbourne , if you’re searching for professional assistance for problems with your blocked toilets.

Additional Information

• The Ultimate Guide to Drain Clearing Services
• 5 Ways to Keep Your Drains Clear and Running Smoothly
• Why Regular Drain Cleaning Should Be Part of Your Home Maintenance Routine
• Don�t Get Caught Unprepared! What You Need to Do Before a CCTV Drain Inspection
• Common Drain Cleaning Mistakes You Need to Avoid
• CCTV Drain Inspection: The Key to Resolving Blocked Drains Quickly
• The Dangers of Using Chemical Drain Unblockers
• The Benefits of CCTV Drain Inspections for Blocked Drains and Corroded Pipes
• Why Trenchless Pipe Relining is the Future of Condominium Plumbing
• Unblocking Blocked Drains: How to Choose Between DIY or Professional Services