Ways to Unclog a Toilet
We’ve all been there—you flush the toilet, and instead of everything going down the drain as it ought to, the water level starts rising ominously. A clogged toilet can be a real headache, especially if you don’t know how to deal with it. Fortunately, unclogging a toilet is a skill anybody can learn. This guide from the plumbing specialists at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing will walk you through a few useful methods to unclog a toilet that won’t flush, helping you feel prepared the next time you face this ordinary household challenge.
The Trusty Plunger Technique
The most tried and true strategy for unclogging a toilet is using a plunger. But don’t just reach for the first plunger you see in the aisle at the store. It’s crucial to use a flange plunger that is specially designed for toilet bowls. The rubber flange on the cup forms a better seal to build up the pressure necessary to free the clog. Here’s how to use a plunger correctly:
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- Make sure there’s a little water in the bowl. If there’s no water in the bowl, add water from the sink using a cup.
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- Position the plunger at an angle to be sure the flange goes into the hole at the bottom of the bowl.
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- Raise the plunger up and down several times, being cautious not to lose the seal.
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- After a number of plunges, wait a few seconds and watch to see if the water starts going down. If not, keep plunging. But if the water recedes, take out the plunger and flush to see if the clog is gone.
Don’t Have a Plunger? Other Ways to Remove a Clog
While your residence should have at least one plunger, you may not have one handy at the moment. Here are a couple of alternative approaches to unclog a toilet with no plunger.
Unclogging with Hot Water and Soap
Hot water and soap is a remarkably good substitute for a toilet plunger. This method works better for softer clogs that need a light push. Here’s what you need to do:
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- Remove some water from the toilet bowl if it’s quite full. Scoop the toilet water out of the bowl with an old cup and dump it in the tub or shower drain.
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- Squeeze out a substantial portion of dish soap or liquid detergent into the bowl. The soap helps lubricate the clog, making it easier for it to push through the pipes.
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- Carefully pour a bucket of hot (not boiling) water from waist height into the bowl. The force of the water coupled with the slippery soap should dislodge the clog.
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- Let the mixture sit for roughly 20 minutes, giving it time to work its magic.
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- Try to flush the toilet. If the water drains down the pipe, you’ve effectively unclogged your toilet!
Use Baking Soda and Vinegar to Unclog a Toilet
Baking soda and vinegar is a powerful formula. Here’s how to use this eco-friendly strategy for unclogging toilets:
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- 1Take out unwanted water from the bowl to prevent an overflow.
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- Pour about a cup of baking soda right into the toilet bowl, followed by two cups of white vinegar. The blend of baking soda and vinegar produces a fizzing action that breaks down the clog. Pour the vinegar slowly to minimize overflow from the fizzing reaction.
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- Let the baking soda and vinegar mix sit in the bowl for at least 20 minutes.
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- After waiting, flush the toilet. If the water flows effortlessly, your problem is fixed. If not, try a different method or call a plumber for help.
Try Using a Coat Hanger to Unclog a Toilet
This method is particularly effective for clogs caused by foreign objects or dense materials. It calls for making a homemade drain auger out of an old coat hanger. Follow these steps:
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- Unwind a wire coat hanger until it’s fairly straight.
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- Wrap a little bit of cloth around the end of the hanger and attach it with duct tape to shield your toilet bowl from scratches.
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- Place the wrapped end into the toilet and with great care push it down the drain hole.
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- Maneuver the hanger in different directions to dislodge the clog. Remember to be gentle to avoid damaging the porcelain or plumbing.
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- After a few minutes of careful prodding and poking, remove the hanger and attempt a flush. If the water drains away, you’re right as rain. If the issue lingers, it may be time to call in the professionals at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing.
Contact Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for Your Plumbing Needs in the U.S.
While the techniques detailed above work good for easy clogs, some circumstances call for professional support. If you’ve tried plunging or other techniques without success, call Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for help. We realize how aggravating a clogged toilet and other plumbing problems can be in a home or business. That’s why our knowledgeable plumbers provide fast, durable solutions. Call us to take care of messy plumbing problems, and we’ll ensure your 100% satisfaction. To schedule our skilled plumbing services in the U.S. and nearby areas, call 866-397-3787 today!