So, you have a clogged toilet… now what? Toilet troubles can strike at the most inconvenient times, leaving you flustered and in a quandary about how to restore normalcy.
But with the right plunger, a little elbow grease, and some easy-to-follow tips from our experts, you’ll be able to tackle one of those annoying clogs on your own.
Whether you’re a seasoned plumber or a homeowner eager to learn, mastering how to unclog a toilet efficiently is an essential skill. This blog post dives into practical insights and step-by- step methods that will empower you to resolve toilet clogs with confidence.
What to Do When Your Toilet is Clogged
A clogged toilet is more than just an inconvenience; it can also be quite messy. Follow these steps to address the problem:
- Turn off the water: If you notice water rising in the bowl, quickly turn off the water supply valve near the toilet's base to prevent overflow.
- Prepare the area:
- Place towels or newspapers around the base of the toilet to catch any spills.
- Wear rubber gloves to protect your hands from bacteria and contaminants.
- Check for solid objects: If you suspect the clog is a solid object (like a child's toy or misplaced towel), see if you can safely remove it by hand.
- Identify the clog type: Determine if it’s a buildup of toilet paper or something lodged deeper in the sanitary pipe. This will help you choose the proper method to clear the blockage.
Other Types of Toilet Issues
- Ghost Flushing: This occurs when the toilet seemingly flushes on its own, often due to a faulty flapper or a leak in the tank.
- Leaking: Check for leaks around the base or from the tank. Such leaks can indicate worn-out seals or cracks in the porcelain.
- Broken flange: A broken toilet flange can lead to instability and leaks, requiring replacement to secure the toilet properly.
- Fill valve issues: If the toilet is slow to fill or won’t stop filling, the fill valve may need adjustment or replacement to restore proper function.
How to Plunge a Toilet
Tools Needed:
- Plunger: A flange plunger is ideal for toilets because it creates a better seal.
- Gloves: Disposable rubber gloves will keep your hands clean.
- Bucket: Useful for catching any overflow or excess water.
- Old towels or rags: For cleaning up spills or drips around the toilet.
- Protective eyewear: This is optional but can help keep your eyes safe from splashes.
Steps to Plunge:
- If you notice that the water in the bowl is rising, turn off the water supply. This will prevent overflow and a potential mess.
- If water in the bowl is at or close to the rim, remove enough water so it does not spill over when a plunger is inserted. It’s recommended that you preserve some water in the bowl, as the extra pressure from the filled bowl can help push the blockage through.
- Position the plunger in the bowl, ensuring the flange is inserted into the drain.
- Push down gently to create a seal, then pull up sharply, repeating the motion quickly.
- Flush the toilet to check if the blockage has cleared. If not, repeat the plunging process.
- If the toilet completes a full flush, then flush the toilet again to get the waste through the system. This helps ensure the waste contents don’t stop elsewhere in the pipe.
How to Unclog Your Toilet with a Toilet Auger
- Prepare the tools: Ensure you have a toilet auger ready.
- Feed the snake: Carefully insert the auger into the toilet bowl, avoiding scratches on the porcelain.
- Turn the handle: Turn the handle clockwise while gently pushing it down the drain.
- Feel for resistance: You've likely reached the clog if you encounter resistance.
- Clear the clog: Continue turning the handle to snag or break up the obstruction.
- Retract the snake: Slowly pull the snake back out, ensuring the blockage is dislodged.
- Test the toilet: Flush the toilet to see if the water drains freely.
- Clean the snake: Thoroughly clean the snake before storing it away.
Our technical experts do not advise homeowners to use the following everyday household items instead of a plunger or auger. Each can compromise the integrity of the toilet, such as melting its wax seal, scratching the porcelain finish, or harming the user due to human error. The items to avoid are:
- Hot water and dish soap
- Bleach
- Vinegar and baking soda
- Makeshift drain snake using a metal coat hanger
Avoid using a drain cleaner to unclog a toilet: The Oatey technical team also does not recommend using drain cleaners to unclog a toilet, as they can potentially damage your toilet’s finish due to harsh chemicals. If you encounter a stubborn blockage, it is best to explore alternative methods for clearing clogs before resorting to such products. If the issue continues, seeking professional assistance may be the most effective solution.
How to Avoid Toilet Clogs
- Limit toilet paper use: Consider installing a bidet as a hygienic, eco-friendly alternative.
- Educate your household: Inform everyone about what can and cannot be flushed:
- Do not flush paper towels, sanitary products, and wipes (even “flushable” ones).
- Dispose of these items in the trash.
- Perform regular maintenance:
- Clean the water jets around the toilet rim weekly for efficient flushing.
- Inspect toilet components regularly to catch potential issues early.
Toilet Maintenance Tips
Routine maintenance is the key to a healthy plumbing system:
- Regular inspections: Check for signs of wear and tear, like cracks, leaks, or rust.
- Prompt repairs: Address minor issues quickly to avoid costly repairs later.
- Mind what you flush: To prevent clogs, avoid flushing grease, wax, and solidifying substances.
- Septic tank care: Use suitable products that won’t harm your septic system.
If you encounter persistent clogs despite your best efforts, don't hesitate to call a licensed service plumber. These professionals have the expertise and equipment needed to diagnose and resolve complex plumbing issues safely.
