Easy Ways to Fix a Clogged Toilet

Ever get that sinking feeling when you flush the toilet and the water begins to rise? We’ve all been there. A potential plumbing disaster is certainly something that could ruin your day, but don’t panic just yet! 

Unclogging toilets might seem daunting, but with some basic know-how and a dash of elbow grease, it’s a problem you can solve independently.

This guide offers an easy, step-by-step process to tackle that stubborn blockage. Remember that Canberra Plumbing & Drains can always lend an expert hand in those challenging situations. 

What Are The Most Common Causes Of Clogged Toilets?

Understanding the common causes of clogged toilets can give you a head start when it comes to resolving the problem. So let’s break it down:

• Excessive toilet paper: This is probably the most common cause. Adding bigger wads of toilet paper to your toilet bowl can block the pipes, preventing water and waste from flowing out. To avoid this, aim to use only what’s necessary.
• Non-flushable items: From baby wipes to dental floss, everyday items can become a plumber’s nightmare if flushed down the toilet. Be smart about what you flush down your toilet bowl. When in doubt, chuck it in the bin instead.
• Tree roots: Tree roots are less common but a potential problem for homes with large trees around. Tree roots can infiltrate your pipes and cause blockages, which require more of a solution than a toilet plunger. If you suspect this might be a cause, call in a professional to have a look.
• Pipe issues: Sometimes, the problem is not what’s inside the pipes but the pipes themselves. Old or damaged pipes can cause clogs. Once again, a professional diagnosis might be required to check your sewer line and determine the cause of the clogged pipe.

Understanding these causes can help you mitigate the risk of clogs in the future.

Effective Methods To Unclog A Toilet: A DIY Guide

Clearing most clogged toilet drains yourself can be tried before seeking professional help, and these are the methods that are known to clear the blocked drain:

1. Toilet Plunger: The first and most common method is using a plunger. Ensure you have a good seal around the toilet bowl’s opening, and use vigorous but steady up-and-down motions to create suction and dislodge stubborn clogs.
2. Dish Soap & Hot Water Trick: Pour a mixture of hot water (not boiling, as it can crack the porcelain) and dish soap into the bowl. The soap can help lubricate the clog, while the hot water softens it, making it easier to flush away.
3. Baking Soda and Vinegar: This natural method is an effective homemade drain cleaner that involves pouring a cup of baking soda into the toilet drain, followed by a cup of vinegar. Let it fizz and sit for a few minutes, then flush. This can help break down organic matter and unclog the toilet.
4. Toilet Auger: A toilet auger, also known as a toilet snake, can reach deeper into the toilet than a plunger. Carefully feed the auger into the toilet, twist it to latch onto the clog, then pull it out.
5. Chemical Drain Cleaners: While effective, these should be used as a last resort due to their harshness and potential to damage plumbing. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions, wear rubber gloves and use them in a well-ventilated area. We recommend getting our drain cleaning experts to do the job properly.
6. Wire Hanger Trick: Unwind a wire coat hanger to create a long, straight piece of metal with a small hook at the end. Use this to probe and break apart the clog gently.
7. Enzyme Product: Enzyme waste removal products can be effective for organic clogs. They break down the organic matter in the clog without damaging the pipes.

Remember, if these methods don’t work or if you encounter frequent clogs, it might be a sign of a more serious plumbing issue. In this case, it’s advisable to give Canberra Plumbing & Drains a call.

Our Approach Approach to Toilet Clogs

Recognising your toilet tank is clogged can be far more than an inconvenience – it’s a distress signal your bathroom sends out, alerting you that immediate action is required. If you’re in Canberra, many experienced professionals at Canberra Plumbing & Drains are ready to hop in and save the day. 

1. Evaluation: Quick and accurate problem detection is key. Our team’s professional plumber will conduct an initial inspection to pinpoint the location and cause of the blocked drain. In some cases, your toilet might even be running.
2. Tools: They come armed with a specialised toolkit for every imaginable scenario. Be it a vacuum hose, specialised drain snakes or high-pressure water jetter, all these tools have their unique purposes and are used to clear a badly clogged toilet efficiently.
3. Safety: Your health and safety are paramount. Our team adheres to strict safety measures, wearing protective eyewear and rubber gloves and using bacteria-killing solutions to ensure a hygienic working environment.
4. Execution: Our expert plumber will dislodge the toilet clogs using the appropriate tools and techniques with everything set. Whether it requires plunging, snaking, or even hydrojetting, each tool is vital for restoring and unclogging a toilet.
5. Cleanup: Unlike some DIY fixes, we never leave a mess behind. We ensure the bathroom is left pristine, waste is disposed of safely, and areas are sanitised as required.

With Canberra Plumbing & Drains, you can expect a blend of technical knowledge, professionalism, and efficient service when they unclog a toilet or another clogged drain. By entrusting your plumbing issues to us, you can safeguard your home from potential water damage, saving you time, effort, and money.

We’ll Unblock Your Plumbing Woes 

Letting a clogged toilet get your day off track, or your spirit down is unnecessary. Reach out to the experts at Canberra Plumbing & Drains to quickly restore normalcy to your home.

Contact us to schedule an appointment with our skilled technicians. We’re ready to roll up our sleeves and get your plumbing back in pristine condition.