A blocked toilet is one of the most inconvenient household issues. It can disrupt your day and create an unpleasant environment if not dealt with quickly. Fortunately, you can clear most blockages yourself without calling in a plumber. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you clear a blocked toilet.
Why Toilets Get Blocked
Understanding the common causes of toilet blockages can help prevent future issues. Some of the main culprits include:
- Too much toilet paper: Excessive use of toilet paper can clog the pipes, especially if it’s not biodegradable.
- Flushing non-flushable items: Wipes, sanitary products, and paper towels should never be flushed as they do not break down like toilet paper.
- Build-up of waste: Over time, a build-up of waste can cause blockages, particularly in older plumbing systems.
What You’ll Need to Clear a Blocked Toilet
Before you begin, gather the following items to help with the job:
- Rubber gloves: Essential for hygiene and protection.
- Plunger: A good-quality plunger is one of the most effective tools for clearing blockages.
- Toilet auger (plumbing snake): This can help reach deeper blockages.
- Hot water: Used to soften blockages.
- Dish soap: Helps to break down grease and waste.
Step-by-Step Guide to Clearing a Blocked Toilet
1. Assess the Situation
First, check whether the blockage is severe. If the water in the bowl is draining slowly, it’s a partial blockage. If it’s completely stagnant and rising, you’re dealing with a more serious clog.
Avoid flushing the toilet again if it’s completely blocked, as this could cause the water to overflow.
2. Use the Plunger
A plunger is often the quickest way to clear a blocked toilet. Ensure you have a plunger that is designed for toilets (with a flange). Here’s how to use it effectively:
- Step 1: Place the plunger over the hole in the toilet bowl, ensuring a tight seal.
- Step 2: Push down gently at first, then pull up sharply. Repeat this motion several times.
- Step 3: After a few plunges, remove the plunger and check if the water is draining. If it’s still blocked, continue plunging.
The pressure created by the plunger helps dislodge the blockage, allowing water to flow freely again.
3. Use Hot Water and Dish Soap
If the plunger doesn’t work, try using hot water and dish soap:
- Step 1: Pour a few squirts of dish soap into the toilet bowl. Dish soap helps to break down any grease or waste.
- Step 2: Carefully pour a bucket of hot (but not boiling) water into the toilet. The heat will help soften the blockage.
- Step 3: Wait for about 10-15 minutes, then flush the toilet. If the water drains, the blockage has cleared.
This method is especially useful for softer blockages caused by toilet paper or waste.
4. Use a Toilet Auger (Plumbing Snake)
For more stubborn blockages, a toilet auger or plumbing snake can be very effective:
- Step 1: Insert the auger into the toilet bowl and push it down the drain slowly.
- Step 2: Rotate the handle of the auger to break up the blockage or hook onto the debris causing the clog.
- Step 3: Once you feel the blockage has been dislodged, carefully pull the auger back out.
- Step 4: Flush the toilet to check if the blockage has cleared.
A plumbing snake is great for reaching blockages that are deeper in the pipe and cannot be cleared with a plunger.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
If none of the above methods work, or if the blockage keeps recurring, it’s time to call a professional plumber. Persistent blockages could indicate a more serious issue, such as a problem with your plumbing system, tree roots invading pipes, or a collapsed pipe.
Preventing Toilet Blockages
Preventing future blockages is as important as fixing the current one. Here are a few tips to keep your toilet clog-free:
- Only flush toilet paper and human waste. Avoid flushing any other items, even if they are labeled “flushable.”
- Use less toilet paper. Try using smaller amounts of toilet paper and flushing more often to prevent blockages.
- Regular maintenance. Keep your plumbing system well-maintained to prevent build-ups and clogs.
Conclusion
Clearing a blocked toilet is a task that most people can handle with the right tools and techniques. Whether you’re using a plunger, hot water, or a plumbing snake, these simple methods can save you time and money. Just remember to prevent future blockages by being mindful of what you flush and maintaining your plumbing system. If all else fails, don’t hesitate to contact a professional plumber.
