Introduction

Dealing with a clogged toilet can be a headache for anyone, but it’s a common problem that almost everyone will have to face at some point in their lives. However, with this ultimate guide, you’ll learn how to unclog a toilet like a pro and avoid unnecessary stress and embarrassment.

This guide is divided into sections and covers everything about unclogging a toilet – from simple DIY methods to professional plumbing services. So, let’s jump into the main section!

The Ultimate Guide: How to Unclog a Toilet Like a Pro

Unclogging your toilet like a pro starts with proper knowledge and strategy, followed by effective action. Unclogging your toilet can be an easy job, as long as you have the right tools and technique. Here’s what you need to do:

• Step 1: Turn off the water – Before you start unclogging, turn off the water supply to your toilet. This will prevent an overflow.
• Step 2: Use a plunger – Use a plunger to create pressure and force out the clog. Press down gently with the plunger to create suction, then pull up sharply to free the blockage. Repeat this process until the water drains properly.
• Step 3: Use a toilet auger – If the plunger doesn’t work, you can use a toilet auger to break up the clog. Carefully insert the cable into the drain and rotate it to remove the blockage.
• Step 4: Turn on the water – Once the water has drained properly, turn on the water supply and flush the toilet to ensure everything is back to normal.

If you’re new to unclogging a toilet, then there are numerous videos and illustrations available on YouTube and other platforms. These can be super useful, providing an easy to follow pictorial representation of what needs to be done.

5 DIY Methods to Unclog Your Troublesome Toilet

Unclogging your toilet isn’t just limited to using a plunger or toilet auger. You can also use several homemade solutions to unclog your toilet, including:

• Using vinegar and baking soda – Mix one part baking soda with one part vinegar and pour it into the toilet. Wait for 30 minutes and flush the toilet with hot water to remove the blockage.
• Using a wire hanger – Straighten out a metal wire hanger and create a hook at one end. Insert the hook into the drain and twist it around to remove the clog.
• Using hot water and dish soap – Pour hot water and dish soap in the toilet, then flush it to clear out the obstruction.
• Using a vacuum cleaner – Use a wet and dry vacuum cleaner to suck out the clog from the toilet.
• Using a combination of baking soda and salt – Mix baking soda and salt in equal parts and pour it into the toilet. Wait for 10 minutes and flush the toilet to remove the blockage.

It’s important to remember these DIY solutions may not always work, or they can even cause further damage to your pipes. So, use them with caution and only when necessary.

When All Else Fails: Call a Plumber

Sometimes, even the most skilled DIYers can’t fix a clogged toilet. In such cases, it’s best to call a professional plumber.

Here are some scenarios where you should leave the job to a professional:

• If the clog is out of reach – If the clog is deep in your pipes, you may not be able to remove it with a plunger or toilet auger.
• If there is a sewage smell – If you notice a strong sewage smell coming from your toilet or bathroom, it’s a sign of a more serious issue that requires a professional plumber.
• If you don’t have the right tools – If you’re not confident of your unclogging skills or don’t have the necessary tools, it’s best to hire a professional.

When hiring a professional plumber, always do your research. Ask for referrals from family and friends or check the internet and yellow pages. Make sure you have a clear understanding of what the service will cost, and get a written estimate before work begins.

Preventing Toilet Clogs: Tips and Tricks

Prevention is better than cure when it comes to unclogging a toilet. Here are some tips and tricks to keep your toilet running smoothly:

• Avoid flushing large items – Avoid flushing large items like wipes, feminine hygiene products, or baby diapers. These items can cause significant blockages.
• Regularly use the plunger – Use a plunger to remove small clogs before they become a big problem.
• Flush before you wipe – Wipe the toilet bowl before saving a lot of paper. If paper slowly piles up over time, it can ultimately cause a blockage.
• Use biodegradable toilet paper – Biodegradable toilet paper breaks down more quickly than regular toilet paper, reducing the risk of a blockage.

Why Your Toilet Keeps Clogging and How to Fix It

Clogs are typically caused by buildup or trapped objects in the drain pipe. However, a clogged toilet can also be the result of major issues with your plumbing system.

Here are some common reasons for a continually clogged toilet:

• Low Flow Toilets – Older low flow toilets can be notorious for clogging. Over time, they can develop mineral deposits and cause blockages.
• Misaligned Pipes – Misaligned pipes can cause blockages in your toilet, which can also cause issues with your other plumbing fixtures.
• Roots in Sewer Line – Tree roots can grow into your sewer line, causing clogs and blockages in your plumbing system.

If your toilet continues to clog frequently, it may be time to consult with a reliable plumber to inspect your drainage system.

Eco-Friendly Ways to Unclog Your Toilet

Using eco-friendly methods to unclog your toilet is a great way to avoid using harsh chemicals and protect the environment. Here are some simple and effective eco-friendly solutions for unclogging your toilet:

• Using a plunger – A plunger is a simple, effective, and eco-friendly way to unclog your toilet.
• Vinegar and baking soda – Vinegar and baking soda are natural cleaning agents that can be used to unclog your toilet.
• Hot Water and Epsom Salt – Hot water and Epsom salt are excellent for breaking down clogs that are mostly composed of minerals and other organic solids.

The Dos and Don’ts of Toilet Clog Removal

Here are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind when unclogging your toilet:

• Do be patient – It can take some time to remove a stubborn clog.
• Do use rubber gloves – Wear rubber gloves to protect your hands from bacteria.
• Don’t use harsh chemicals – Harsh chemicals like bleach or drain cleaners can damage your pipes.
• Don’t flush repeatedly – Flushing the toilet repeatedly can actually make the clog worse and cause an overflow.

Conclusion

Clogged toilets are a common household problem, but with this ultimate guide, you now have everything you need to know to unclog your toilet like a pro. Remember to follow the dos and don’ts and use eco-friendly solutions where possible. Additionally, take preventative measures to avoid the problem in the first place. Lastly, if all else fails, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional plumber.