Simple Ways to Fix a Badly Blocked Toilet

A clogged toilet can be a nightmare. When a toilet becomes badly blocked, it can disrupt your entire day. Thankfully, there are simple methods to fix it. From using a plunger to employing a toilet snake, you can handle the situation without professional help. However, if you’re stuck and need assistance, you can always call Refined Home Services, plumbing contractors in Toronto. Our expertise can make your bathroom functional again in no time. Follow these steps to try fixing the issue yourself first before reaching out for expert help.

Common Causes of a Badly Blocked Toilet

Overuse of Toilet Paper

Using too much toilet paper is one of the most common reasons for a blocked toilet. When you flush a large amount, the paper doesn’t dissolve fast enough. It clumps together and gets stuck in the pipes. Over time, this can create a blockage. You may not notice the issue at first, but as the paper builds up, the toilet becomes harder to flush. To prevent this, use a reasonable amount of toilet paper each time. If you notice a problem, try flushing it multiple times to help the paper go down.

Foreign Objects in the Toilet

Foreign objects are another common cause of toilet blockages. Items like wet wipes, cotton balls, and even kids’ toys can get flushed by mistake. These objects don’t break down in water. Instead, they can get stuck in the pipes or the toilet trap, causing a blockage. Many people think that flushable wipes dissolve like toilet paper, but they don’t. Avoid flushing anything that isn’t toilet paper. If something small is accidentally flushed, it’s best to retrieve it quickly before it causes a problem.

Steps to Unblock Your Toilet

Use a Plunger Effectively

A plunger is the first tool you should reach for when dealing with a clogged toilet. To use it correctly, place the rubber end of the plunger over the toilet drain hole. Press down firmly, ensuring a tight seal. Then, push and pull the plunger up and down. This creates pressure that helps break up the blockage. Keep the motion steady, but don’t rush. If the clog doesn’t clear right away, repeat the process several times. Afterward, flush to check if the water drains properly. If not, try another method.

Try Hot Water and Dish Soap

If the plunger doesn’t clear the blockage, hot water and dish soap can help. First, heat some water in a kettle or pot, but don’t bring it to a boil. Pour about 3 to 4 cups of the hot water into the toilet bowl. Then, add a generous amount of dish soap. Let it sit for about 10 minutes. The hot water will loosen the clog, and the soap will help break it down. After 10 minutes, try plunging again. This method can work for softer blockages, making it easier to clear the pipes.

H2: Using a Toilet Snake or Auge

Insert the Toilet Snake Properly

A toilet snake is a great tool for stubborn clogs. To start, feed the end of the snake into the toilet drain. Hold the handle firmly and twist it clockwise. Keep pushing the snake into the drain while turning it. As you move it forward, you may feel resistance. That means the snake is reaching the blockage. Keep twisting and pushing until you break up the clog. It’s important to move slowly and avoid forcing the tool. If the snake gets stuck, gently pull it back and try again.

Pull Out the Clog

Once the snake hits the clog, continue turning it to grab onto the blockage. Slowly pull the snake out, keeping it steady. You may notice some debris or a clog coming out with the snake. Once the blockage is removed, flush the toilet. This will help confirm that the water is draining properly. If the water drains normally, the clog is cleared. If not, you may need to repeat the process or try another method. Always be careful to avoid damaging your toilet while using the snake.

When to Call for Professional Help

Persistent Blockages

If your toilet remains clogged after trying different methods, it might be time to call a plumber. Sometimes, a clog is too tough for a plunger or snake to handle. When this happens, a professional can diagnose the issue and fix it. Persistent blockages could mean that the clog is deep inside the pipes or that something else is blocking the system. A plumber will have the right tools and knowledge to clear the blockage without causing damage to your plumbing. Don’t wait too long, as ignoring the problem can make it worse.

Severe Pipe Damage

A blocked toilet could be a sign of more serious issues, like damaged pipes. If you notice slow drainage, frequent clogs, or foul odours that don’t go away, your plumbing might have a bigger problem. Over time, pipes can corrode or get damaged, which leads to blockages that you can’t clear yourself. If you suspect pipe damage, it’s best to call a plumber right away. They can inspect your pipes and fix any issues before they cause bigger, more expensive problems.

Preventing Future Toilet Clogs

Use Less Toilet Paper

Using too much toilet paper is one of the easiest ways to clog your toilet. It may seem harmless to use more, but large amounts can block the pipes. Toilet paper takes time to break down, and when there’s too much of it, it doesn’t dissolve fast enough. This causes clogs. Try using a smaller amount each time. If you need more, flush the toilet and then add more paper. This way, you avoid overloading the system. Small changes can keep your toilet running smoothly.

Avoid Flushing Non-Flushable Items

Never flush items like wipes, paper towels, or sanitary products down the toilet. These items do not break down like toilet paper. They can clog the pipes and lead to bigger problems. Even “flushable” wipes are not safe for your plumbing. They don’t dissolve in water and can create blockages in your toilet or pipes. Always throw non-flushable items in the trash. It’s an easy step that can save you a lot of hassle later.

Why Unblocking a Toilet Doesn’t Have to Be Hard

A blocked toilet doesn’t have to be a major headache. Simple solutions like using a plunger, hot water, or a toilet snake can usually clear most clogs. However, if these methods don’t work, there may be a bigger issue, like damage to your pipes. When that happens, it’s best to call in a professional. Refined Home Services can help with all your plumbing needs. Our team provides quick, reliable, and expert-level plumbing services to get your toilet working again. Don’t let a clogged toilet disrupt your day. Contact us today for fast help.