Blocked toilets are inconvenient, messy, and a source of frustration for any homeowner. However, understanding the best way to handle it can save you time, money, and potential damage to your plumbing.
In this blog, we will explore everything you need to know about unblocking your toilet, from assessing the blockage to proven methods, when to call in the professionals and ways to prevent future blockages.
Understanding Toilet Blockages
A blocked toilet can result from various factors, including excessive toilet paper usage, flushing foreign objects, or plumbing issues deeper within the system.
Before taking any action, assess the severity of the blockage. If the water is draining slowly, you might have a partial blockage. However, if the water is rising to the rim or overflowing, the blockage is likely more severe and requires immediate or professional attention.
Once you have an idea of what is causing the blockage you can take some of the following steps to remedy it.
Baking Soda and Vinegar Solution
For an eco-friendly approach, try a baking soda and vinegar solution. Pour one cup of baking soda and one cup of vinegar into the toilet bowl. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes, the chemical reaction can help break down the blockage. Follow up with hot water to flush away the loosened debris.
How Water and Dish Soap
Alternatively, you can use hot water and dish detergent. Heat a pot of water (not boiling) and add a few squirts of washing-up liquid. Pour the hot water into the toilet bowl from waist height. The soap can act as a lubricant, and the hot water may help break down the blockage. This method is more suitable for organic blockages.
Use a Plunger
If these less hands-on methods prove ineffective, you may need to use some elbow grease to clear the blockage. A plunger is a simple yet powerful tool for dealing with minor toilet blockages.
Ensure you have a good-quality plunger with a flange for a better seal. Place the plunger over the drain hole, creating a tight seal, and push down gently, then pull up forcefully. Repeat this motion several times to create suction and dislodge the blockage.
Plumbing Auger or Drain Snake
If the blockage is deeper and cannot be resolved with a plunger, consider using a plumbing auger or drain snake. Insert the auger into the drain and rotate the handle to navigate through the pipes. This can help break apart and remove more stubborn blockages.
Call in the Professionals
If all else fails, or if you are unsure about handling the blockage yourself, it's best to call in professional plumbers. Our team of experienced plumbers are equipped with advanced tools to handle even the most challenging toilet blockages.
DIY methods can sometimes worsen the problem, and professional intervention ensures a thorough and lasting solution. Contact our professional plumbers in Melbourne, to get your toilet flowing like new in no time.
Preventing a Blocked Toilet in the Future
It’s important to undertake preventative measures to avoid a blocked toilet in the future. As they say: prevention is always better than a cure. Reoccurring blockages can be damaging to your toilet and plumbing system, so it is important to take steps to prevent future blockages.
Effective prevention methods include proper disposal practices, regular maintenance, and being mindful of what goes down the toilet. Items such as wet wipes, sanitary pads and tampons are among the top causes of blocked toilets, it’s essential to be mindful not to flush these items down your toilets as they do not break down and can cause serious blockages or damage in your pipes.
Manage Your Blocket Toilet
A blocked toilet is a common plumbing issue that can often be resolved with simple tools and methods. However, it's crucial to assess the severity of the blockage and choose the appropriate method.
If in doubt, seeking professional assistance ensures a swift and effective resolution, preventing further damage to your plumbing system. If you’re dealing with a stubbornly blocked toilet, don’t hesitate to contact our experienced team of plumbers at Essendon Plumbing Services. We are ready and available 24/7 to help get your water flowing freely and your plumbing working like new.