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

Toilet blockages can occur at any moment and are a common problem for households. It’s unpleasant and messy, and require immediate attention. However, you don’t always have to contact a plumber right away. In this blog we’ll take you through the steps to unclog your toilet within a matter of minutes.

Key Takeaways

• Toilet blockages can be solved by using simple tools such as plungers, 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)
• Hook for the Wire Coat or plumbing Snake (Optional)

Step 1: Turn off the valve for water flow.

The first thing you need to do when confronted with a blocked toilet is to shut off the water supply valve in front of the toilet. This ensures that no water will enter the tank while you try to get it unclogged. The valve is usually situated near the bottom of the tank, on one side.

Step 2: Protect yourself by wearing rubber gloves.

Hands must be protected from any germs or bacteria present in your toilet with rubber gloves prior to using any tools for unclogging.

Step 3: Use a plunger.

A plunger is undoubtedly the most efficient tool for clearing up blocked toilets. The first step is to gently push down to the plunger, until air is removed from it, then place it firmly on the hole in your toilet bowl. Then, start to plunge vigorously up and down for approximately 20 minutes. The suction created by 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 close enough to prevent the release of pressure as you plunge.

Step 4: Make a baking soda with vinegar.

If the plunge doesn’t work you can try this other method add half a cup of baking soda and 1 cups of white vinegar to the toilet. Let this mixture settle for approximately 15 minutes. It will fizz a bit then stop it will be poured down with hot water (not overly hot) to eliminate the obstruction.

Step 5 Utilize a coat hanger with wire or plumbing snake.

If plunging, baking soda or vinegar methods have failed, then it is time to use an electric coat hanger or plumbing snake. You can straighten out the coat hanger’s cable until you are left with a thin and long wire that has hooks that are bent at one end or use the plumbing snake which is designed specifically for clearing drain obstructions. Install the snake in the drain hole on your toilet, and then twist to turn, push, to the point where you can feel 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 pipeline.

Note:

• Do not overdo pulling or pushing actions hard as they can cause more harm.

Step 6: Restart the water supply and verify the results.

Once you’ve removed any blockages, it is important to switch on the valve for water flow behind your toilet bowl again. You should flush it a couple of times to make sure everything is running smoothly!

Frequently Asked Question

How can I tell when my toilet is not functioning properly?

A common symptoms of a blocked toilet is when water levels rise to the top of the bowl after flushing. There is a possibility that the water drains slowly or you hear gurgling sounds coming from the toilet.

What can I do if the toilet is blocked?

If you suspect the toilet is blocked be sure to avoid flushing it over again since this could cause flooding. Instead, turn off the supply of water valve behind the toilet and use a plunger to try to remove any obstruction. If this fails you can call Perth Blocked Drains Plumber for professional help.

Do I have the ability to stop my toilet from getting blocked?

Yes! There are numerous options to avoid your toilet getting blocked, including avoiding the flushing of non-degradable things like 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 call an experienced plumber about an unblocking toilet?

If you’ve tried plunging your toilet, but it doesn’t clear or you believe there’s a bigger issue with the plumbing system, causing frequent blockages, it’s time to seek out a professional plumber like Perth Blocked Drains Plumber . We have years of experience in dealing with various plumbing issues and can quickly diagnose and fix any issues with the least impact on your property.

How often should I get my drains cleaned?

It is suggested that you have your drains cleaned by a professional such as Perth Blocked Drains Plumber every 1-2 years. This will reduce the chance of blockages and keep your plumbing system operating smoothly. If you regularly experience drain blockages or slow draining of water despite being careful to not block the drains, then annual cleaning could be beneficial.

These strategies are simple to apply as the majority of products are easily available in homes. If you’re facing a blocked toilet, prior to panicking after attempting all these techniques, call Perth Blocked Drains Plumber ‘s expert plumbers located in Perth , if you’re looking for professional help with problems with your blocked toilets.

Additional Information

• The Benefits of CCTV Drain Inspection: Beyond Unclogging Pipes
• Don't Let These Common Mistakes Clog Your Pipes
• Top Reasons to Avoid DIY Drain Unblocking
• The Ultimate Checklist for a Smooth-flowing CCTV Drain Inspection Experience
• CCTV Drain Inspection: Find Out How it Helps Pinpoint Root Infiltration in Your Pipes
• DIY Drain Cleaning: How to Safely Tackle Clogged Drains
• Dealing with Blocked Drains: DIY Techniques vs Professional Services
• Is It Time for a CCTV Drain Inspection? Here's What You Need to Know
• The Importance of CCTV Drain Inspections in Preventing Expensive Property Damage
• Common Causes of Drain Blockages and How to Avoid Them