Toilets seem to get clogged at the most annoying times, and it can be tempting to call a plumber, just so that you don’t have to deal with the hassle of unclogging it. However, unclogging your toilet is usually not that difficult- there are many tools and techniques that can be used to unclog your toilet efficiently. Usually, you don’t need to call a plumber to fix this problem. Here are some of the most effective ways that you can easily unclog your toilet when it doesn’t flush.
Standard Plunger
Using a high quality ball-shaped plunger or one with a fold-out rubber flange on the bottom, which forms a seal, is generally the first option you have when it comes to unclogging the toilet. These plungers use water pressure to push the obstruction, so that it smoothly goes down your pipes. Push the plunger into the bowl ensuring that it covers the hole to create a seal. Then begin to pump the plunger until the obstruction is loosened and the toilet flushes.
Baking Soda and Vinegar Mixture
Another tried and true method of unclogging a toilet is by creating a baking soda and vinegar mixture in hot water. First begin heating half a gallon of water. The water should be hot, but not boiling. Once it is hot enough, mix in a cup of baking soda and 2 cups of vinegar. Pour in the water from waist high. The force of the water falling into the bowl can help clear the block. Let the mixture sit in the bowl overnight and then flush it in the morning. If it does not flush, try another of these methods.
Snake or Auger
A plumbing snake is designed with a flexible coil that can be snaked through the curves of a toilet drain. A snake can be used to manually remove the obstruction from the toilets’ plumbing. Push the coil end of the snake down into the drain and twist the crank until the clog is cleared.
Chemical Drain Cleaner
Chemical drain cleaner is available at most hardware stores and grocery stores. Make sure that you are only using cleaner that is specifically supposed to go down toilets and follow the manufacturer’s instructions exactly. Also, these chemical drain cleaners should only be used as a last resort. The chemicals that are in these cleaners can seriously corrode and damage your pipes if they are overused.
Talking to a Plumber About Your Plumbing Problem
If your toilet gets clogged regularly, it may be a sign that there is another serious issue. This is especially the case if you have seen multiple clogs throughout your home. When you see problems with your plumbing in your home, its best to consult with a plumber who can check your plumbing system. This way, the problems will not get worse and lead to expensive repairs later on.
