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How to Unblock a Clogged Toilet
Common Questions & Answers, and the Importance of Professional Help when dealing with a Blocked Toilet
A clogged toilet is a common household nuisance that can disrupt your daily routine and lead to frustration, especially if it's the only toilet in the house.
When faced with a blocked toilet, it's essential to know how to handle the situation quickly and effectively.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll address common questions about unblocking a clogged toilet, provide some answers and possible solutions for various levels of blockages, and stress the importance of seeking professional assistance when you are out of your depth, or what you're trying just isn't working.
If you find yourself struggling with a persistently clogged toilet or other plumbing issues, don't hesitate to contact Assett Plumbing for expert help with clogged toilets, heating and plumbing repairs, installations, as well as annual boiler servicing.
What causes a clogged toilet?
Toilet clogs can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Flushing non-flushable items such as wipes, paper towels, or feminine hygiene products
- Trying to flush too much toilet paper at once
- Hard water build-up
- Grease or oil build-up
- Tree roots infiltrating the sewer line
Of course, the blockage could simply be caused by excessive human waste, though this is surprisingly less common than some of the above causes.
How do I know if my toilet is clogged?
The most obvious sign is water not draining from the bowl when you flush. Other common signs of a clogged toilet include:
- Difficulty flushing the toilet
- Water rising in the bowl after flushing
- Gurgling or bubbling sounds from the toilet or pipes
- A foul odour emanating from the toilet
How can I prevent toilet clogs?
As with many household and plumbing issues, prevention is usually better than cure. So, to prevent toilet clogs, be mindful of what you flush down the toilet. Avoid flushing large wads of toilet paper or non-flushable items like wet wipes, cotton balls, or dental floss, and never flush grease or oil products.
Consider installing a toilet with a high-pressure flush system to minimise clogs if this a constant issue you have experienced, or the toilet is in heavy constant use.
What should I do if my toilet is clogged?
The first step is to assess the severity of the blockage. If the water is rising rapidly or overflowing, turn off the water supply to the toilet to prevent further damage. If the clog is not severe, you may be able to resolve it yourself using one of the methods described below.
6 Solutions for Unclogging a Toilet
1. Plunging
Plunging is a common and effective method for unclogging toilets. Choose a plunger with a flange that fits snugly over the toilet drain. Submerge the plunger in the water, ensuring the flange creates a tight seal. Plunge vigorously, creating a vacuum to dislodge the clog.
Wear rubber gloves, and try and avoid any waste spillage during this operation, as this could lead to a health hazard.
2. Hot Water
Hot water can help dissolve and loosen clogs caused by grease or waste build-up. Boil a kettle of water and carefully pour it into the toilet bowl. Leave for a few minutes or more as the hot water may help to break up the clog, allowing it to flush away.
3. Baking Soda and Vinegar
This combination creates a fizzing reaction that can help loosen clogs. Pour around 250g (one cup) of baking soda into the toilet bowl, followed by twice that amount of white vinegar. Let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes before flushing.
4. Dish Soap
Dish soap can act as a lubricant, helping to slide the clog down the drain. Pour about half a cup of dish soap into the toilet bowl and let it sit for about 30 minutes before flushing.
5. Plumber's Snake
For more stubborn clogs, a plumber's snake, also known as a drain auger, can be used to reach deeper into the drain and break up the blockage. Insert the snake into the toilet drain and carefully feed it in until you meet resistance. Rotate the handle to break up the clog and then slowly withdraw the snake.
6. Commercial Drain Cleaner
Commercial drain cleaners should be used as a last resort, as they can be harsh on pipes and septic systems. Always follow the instructions on the product carefully and use caution when handling these chemicals.
Are chemical drain cleaners safe for unclogging toilets?
While chemical drain cleaners can be effective in some cases, they are not recommended for toilets. These harsh chemicals can damage the plumbing system and are harmful to the environment. It's best to explore other methods first.
When should I consider professional help for a clogged toilet?
If your toilet remains clogged after attempting multiple DIY methods, it's time to seek professional assistance. Additionally, recurring toilet clogs may indicate a more significant plumbing issue that requires expert evaluation and possibly a toilet replacement or upgrade.
Contact Assett Plumbing for Expert Assistance
If you've tried several methods and your toilet remains clogged, it's time to call in the professionals. Assett Plumbing is a reputable and experienced plumbing company that specialises in unclogging toilets and providing a wide range of plumbing services, including:
- Heating and Plumbing Repairs
- Boiler Replacements
- Boiler Servicing
- Power Flushing
- Landlord Gas Safety
- Emergency plumbing
Our team of skilled plumbers is equipped with the latest tools and techniques to handle any plumbing issue, big or small. We prioritise customer satisfaction and provide prompt, reliable, and affordable services to keep your plumbing systems running smoothly.
Don't let a clogged toilet disrupt your life!
Contact
Contact Assett Plumbing today on
01604 372395 and let us handle your plumbing needs with expertise and care
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