Dealing with a clogged toilet can be an unpleasant experience that can disrupt the order and comfort of your bathroom. It can happen at the most inconvenient times, leaving you feeling frustrated and helpless. Calling a plumber to unclog your toilet can also be costly, adding to your stress and anxiety.
However, in many cases, you can fix the problem yourself and save a considerable amount of money. All it takes is a little know-how and some basic tools. In this post, we’ll guide you through the steps you need to take to unclog your toilet and get things back to normal.
We’ll also provide some helpful tips for preventing future toilet clogs and maintaining your toilet for optimal performance. Let’s get started and say goodbye to the frustration of a clogged toilet!
Tools and Techniques for Unclogging a Toilet
Several tools and techniques can be used to unclog a toilet, each with advantages and disadvantages. Here are the most common methods:
- Plunger: It creates suction and pushes air or water through pipes to clear the blockage. To use, place over the toilet bowl drain, push down firmly and steadily while maintaining a tight seal, pull up quickly to create suction, and repeat until the blockage is cleared. If possible, use a flange plunger with an expanded flange to unclog toilets since it works better.
- Toilet auger: A long, flexible cable, a plumbing snake, splits and removes the obstruction. Insert the cable into the drain, turn it clockwise until it touches the obstruction, and then push and pull the cable to free the obstruction.
- Baking soda and vinegar: Fill the toilet bowl with baking soda, let it sit for a while, and then fill it with vinegar. Wait for the chemical reaction before flushing to see if the obstruction has been removed. Use caution when using baking soda in the toilet, as it occasionally produces a foamy reaction. Avoid using too much baking soda at once; always use hot water to prevent foaming.
- Hot water and dish soap: Hot water and dish soap can clear blockages. Use hot but not boiling water, as it can crack the porcelain bowl of the toilet. Place dish soap and hot water into the toilet bowl. Leave for a few minutes. Flush to check if the blockage cleared.
If the obstruction is located deep within the pipes or sewage line, finding and clearing the block may require the assistance of a plumber with specialized equipment.
It is strongly advised to seek the assistance of a qualified plumber if you are still trying to figure out what to do or feel apprehensive about attempting to fix the problem on your own to protect your plumbing system from further damage.
Preventing Toilet Clogs in the Future
There are several things you can do to avoid future toilet obstructions. It’s crucial to prevent flushing things that can’t be flushed, like feminine hygiene products, wipes, and paper towels. These items are known to get stuck in the pipes and cause troublesome clogs. Instead, dispose of them in the trash.
Another tip is to use less toilet paper when using the restroom. Using too much toilet paper could result in clogs when the toilet needs to be adequately flushed. Using toilet paper that dissolves quickly in water is also essential.
Having a professional plumber regularly inspect the plumbing system is also a good idea to monitor any potential issues before they become significant problems.
A plumber can detect leaks, blockages, or other issues that may cause problems in the future. They also have the proper equipment and can give you suggestions on how to correctly maintain your plumbing system to prevent clogs and other issues from occurring.
Take Action Today To Prevent Costly Plumbing Issues Tomorrow
Dealing with a clogged toilet can be a frustrating and unpleasant experience, especially when it happens at an inconvenient time or when you have guests over. Not to mention the hefty bill that comes with calling a plumber to fix the issue. Fortunately, you can save a lot of money by clearing the blockage yourself and feel accomplished by fixing the problem on your own.
To avoid future toilet clogs and the annoyance and aggravation they cause, it’s important to take immediate action. Remember only to flush toilet paper and human waste down the toilet and try to use less toilet paper whenever possible.
Additionally, have a professional plumber inspect your plumbing system periodically to detect any potential issues before they become serious problems. For expert maintenance and plumbing services, contact Jolly Plumbing today.
