A blocked toilet can quickly become a source of frustration and inconvenience, the blog 5 Reason Your Toilet Keeps Clogging illustrates why so many homes in the UK suffer from this issue, as well as homes who’s plumbing was not built for the 21st Century. Fortunately, many toilet blockages can be resolved with a few simple steps. In this article, we’ll guide you through a three-step process to unblock your toilet at home.
How to Unblock a Toilet Yourself
The first step in unblocking a toilet is to use a plunger. Push the plunger down firmly, then pull it up sharply, creating suction. Repeat this motion several times, maintaining a strong seal. Be patient and persistent as each motion may loosen the blockage a small amount until the entire obstruction comes free.
If plunging doesn’t solve the problem, try the hot water and dish soap method.
Add a generous amount of liquid dish soap to the toilet bowl. The soap acts as a lubricant and may help break up the blockage. Carefully pour a freshly boiled kettle into the toilet bowl from around waist height, be careful not to splash yourself or your surroundings. The force of the water can help dislodge the blockage. Be cautious not to overflow the toilet. If the water does not immediately have an effect, wait a few minutes for the soap and hot water to take effect.
While the above steps can resolve many toilet blockages, some situations may require professional assistance:
- Frequent or recurring blockages despite your efforts to resolve them. Blockages may only be partially removed giving the illusion that the pipes are free of obstruction.
- Multiple fixtures in your home experiencing drainage issues. This can be a complex issue and should only be investigated by a professional.
- Sewage backup or foul odour coming from the toilet or drains.
- The blockage is deep in the plumbing system or requires specialised tools for removal. Not only having the tools is important, but knowing how to use them is equally so, without this knowledge you can cause damage or even exacerbate the issue.
In these cases, it’s best to call a professional such as Handy Squad. They have the expertise, experience, and tools to diagnose and resolve complex plumbing issues effectively. They will ensure a thorough resolution, saving you time, stress as well as preventing further damage to your plumbing system.