A clogged toilet is an exasperating nuisance that can quickly turn a simple task into a frustrating ordeal. The mere sight of the water rising instead of draining triggers annoyance and discomfort. The unpleasant odor that permeates the air only adds to the overall unpleasantness. In those moments, we find ourselves desperately searching for a solution, feeling a sense of urgency. As the top plumbers in the area, we understand the feeling you get when your toilet is clogged. To help, we will provide you with five different methods for clearing a toilet clog so that you can get on with your day.
Got a clogged toilet? Read on to learn how to fix the issue.
1. Grab a Plunger
The first course of action to take with a clogged toilet is to try clearing it with a plunger. Place the plunger over the drain and push it up and down with swift motions. Repeat this seven to eight times and after the last time, pull out the plunger. This motion will create a suction that will clear out the source of the clog. It is usually powerful enough to remove any toys that are stuck in the drain.
2. Use A Mixture of Dish Soap and Hot Water
If plunging the toilet clog didn’t help, you can also try a mixture of dish soap and hot water to loosen the clog. Dish soap is consistent with highly concentrated degreasers that work well to remove the residue and break up the blockage.
Do this by pouring a cup of dish soap into the toilet, allowing it to sit for a minimum of 30 minutes. Then, pour in a pot of hot watert to help break up the clog. Finally, flush. Make sure to pour the hot water from waist height so it doesn’t splash back at you.
3. Use Vinegar and Baking Soda
Another method for fixing a clogged toilet is using a vinegar and baking soda mixture. This combination creates a chemical reaction that eats through the clog and breaks it apart. Pour one part vinegar to one part baking soda into the toilet and let the mixture sit for 30 minutes. Then, flush the toilet and see if the clog is cleared.
4. Try a Plumbing Snake
If the plunger or any of the mixtures didn’t work to clear the clog, you can also try using a plumbing snake. This is a long, flexible tool used to clear out clogs. Insert the snake and twist it in the drain to break up the blockage.
5. Use an Enzymatic Cleaner
Sometimes no matter how hard you try, manual methods do not work. In that case, try a chemical cleaner found in most hardware stores. Be sure to buy one that is specifically designed for unclogging toilets.
When To Call a Plumber for a Toilet Clog
Clogged toilets are often easy to fix on your own. However, there are situations in which you must seek professional help from a plumber. Below, we will provide several guidelines for when you must make that call:
The Clog is Severe
If the clog is too big, you may need a plumber to clear it. They have professional tools and the expertise to remove a clog that did not respond to traditional DIY methods.
Multiple Drains are Clogged
You may need a professional’s help if multiple toilets or drains are clogged at the same time. This may indicate a greater underlying issue that won’t be resolved with a plunger or chemical dissolver.
Nothing That You Tried Worked
If you tried all of the methods outlined in this blog and nothing worked to dissolve the clog, you may need the help of a plumber to get the job done. Too many chemical solutions and attempts using the snake may damage the pipes, so do not hesitate calling the plumber.
Clogged Toilet is Overflowing
If the toilet is overflowing, it’s time to call a plumber immediately. This may indicate a blockage in the main sewer line or a more severe issue that requires immediate attention. Prolonged overflow can also lead to the development of mold and mildew, which are a health hazard.
Call One Source Home Service for Unclogging Toilet Services
Is your toilet still clogged despite your attempts to unclog it? Call One Source Home Service for prompt and efficient repairs.
