A clogged toilet is a common household problem. It is a situation where waste and tissue paper accumulate, causing a blockage that prevents effective flushing. This problem is caused by various things such as flushing inappropriate materials, excessive use of toilet paper, or low water pressure. It is essential to address a clogged toilet promptly to prevent the possibility of overflow, which can lead to significant damage to walls and floors. Addressing this problem on time is key in preventing unpleasant odors and more complicated and expensive repairs.
Identifying a Clogged Toilet
It is easy to identify a clogged toilet. Some of the signs include water rising in the bowl when you try to flush it, a gurgling sound from the drain when you flush the toilet, slow draining or lack of flushing altogether. To confirm if the toilet is indeed clogged, add some water into the bowl and watch how it moves down the drain. Should the water rise, then the toilet is clogged, and swift action should be taken to address the problem.
Common Solutions to Dealing with a Clogged Toilet
The most common solution to dealing with a clogged toilet is using a plunger. Ensure that you have a working plunger and that it is of the right size. Insert the plunger into the bowl and ensure no air is left inside by plunging it up and down several times. This creates pressure and force that, in turn, dislodges the blockage. Repeat the process until the toilet flushes efficiently.
Another common solution for a clogged toilet is to use a toilet auger. This is a tool that has a long flexible tube that can reach deep into the toilet drain to remove the blockage. Insert the auger into the toilet bowl, handle end first. Work the auger deeper into the bowl by twisting and turning until the clog is reached. Once the auger makes contact with the blockage, pull it back gently and the blockage should come up with it.
Enzyme cleaners are another solution that can be effective in clearing a clogged toilet. They work by breaking down organic waste, tissue paper, and substances that may have clogged the drain. Pour the enzyme cleaner into the bowl and let it sit for the recommended time before flushing. This will break down the contents that are clogging the pipe, making them easier to flush away with water.
Boiling water can also be used to remove a clog. This is done by pouring hot but not boiling water directly into the bowl from a height of 3-4 feet. The pressure of the water should be enough to dislodge the clogs.
Dish soap can also be used as it reduces the surface tension of the water and lubricates the pipes, allowing easier passage of the waste. Add a few drops of the dish soap to the toilet bowl, and allow it to sit for some time, then flush.
Alternative Solutions to Dealing with a Clogged Toilet
A wet/dry vacuum cleaner can also be used to remove a clog. The vacuum should be able to handle both wet and dry substances, attach the hose attachment to the bowl, and turn on the vacuum. The pressure created by the vacuum cleaner should be enough to dislodge the blockage.
A bent wire hanger can also be fashioned into a useful tool for unclogging a toilet. Straighten out a wire hanger into a straight line leaving one end hooked. Work the hooked end gently into the bowl drain and work it around to dislodge any blockages.
Baking soda and vinegar can also be used to clear a clogged toilet. Pour a cup of baking soda into the bowl followed by two cups of vinegar. The natural reaction that occurs between the two should be enough to break down the blockage. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes before flushing the toilet.
Another unconventional method is using Coca-Cola. Pour a can of soda into the bowl and let it sit for about 10 minutes. The phosphoric acid breaks down the blockage, and the fizz helps to move the contents along the drain.
Prevention of Clogged Toilets
Preventing clogged toilets starts with proper disposal of waste. Ensure that non-degradable materials, such as baby wipes, feminine hygiene products, and paper towels, are thrown into a bin, not down the toilet. Also, do not flush large amounts of toilet paper down your toilet at once.
Limiting the amount of toilet paper one uses can also help prevent a clog. Using excessive toilet paper or using toilet paper that is too thick can quickly cause a blockage.
Regular cleaning and maintenance can help prevent a clogged toilet. Cleaning the toilet regularly and using cleaning products, such as enzyme cleaners, can break down potential clogging materials before they have a chance to accumulate in the pipes.
A clogged toilet can be a source of frustration for homeowners. Swift action needs to be taken to rectify the situation to prevent further damage. Common solutions to dealing with a clogged toilet are plungers, toilet augers, boiling water, enzyme cleaners, and dish soap. Alternative solutions are using a wet/dry vacuum cleaner, a bent wire hanger, baking soda with vinegar or Coca-Cola. Regular cleaning and proper disposal of waste can help prevent the problem altogether. It is essential to take the necessary actions as soon as possible before the problem escalates into a much bigger issue.
