We’ve all been there – you flush the toilet, and instead of the water going down, it starts to rise, leaving you with a blocked toilet. Not only can this be frustrating, but it can also be embarrassing, especially if you have guests over. While it may seem simple, a blocked toilet can quickly escalate into a much bigger issue if not dealt with properly.

In this blog, we will cover everything you need to know about dealing with a blocked toilet, including the most common causes of blockages and tips on when to call the expert Geelong blocked toilet plumber.

So, whether you’re dealing with a minor blockage or a major plumbing issue, this guide will provide the knowledge and tools you need to get your toilet back in working order and prevent future blockages. So, let’s dive in and tackle this problem head-on!

Understanding the Reasons Behind Toilet Blockages

Understanding the causes of blocked toilets is crucial in preventing future occurrences and maintaining the proper functioning of your plumbing system. Several factors can contribute to a blocked toilet, from flushing inappropriate items down the toilet to tree root intrusion. Let’s explore some of the most common causes of blocked toilets in Melbourne:

Flushing inappropriate items down the toilet: Items like sanitary products, wipes, excessive toilet paper, and foreign objects can cause blockages when flushed down the toilet. They don’t break down quickly and can accumulate in the pipes, leading to clogs.
Low water pressure and improperly installed plumbing fixtures: These issues can cause water to flow slowly or stop entirely, leading to blockages.
Tree root intrusion: Tree root intrusion occurs when the roots of trees and plants grow into underground pipes and sewer lines, causing blockages. As the roots grow, they can cause cracks or breaks in the pipes, allowing debris to accumulate and leading to clogs.
Incorrect use of the toilet: Using the toilet as a garbage disposal and flushing food scraps, cooking grease, or oil down the drain can cause blockages.
Structural issues: Poorly designed or undersized drain pipes can cause blockages.
External factors: Heavy rainfall or flooding can overload the sewer system, causing blockages.

Step-by-Step Instructions on Unblocking Your Toilet

A blocked toilet can cause water to overflow and spill onto the floor, leaving a mess that can be difficult to clean up. Fortunately, unblocking a blocked toilet is a relatively simple process that can be done with a few basic tools and some know-how. Here are step-by-step instructions on how to unblock blocked toilets in Melbourne.

Step 1: Turn off the water supply

Before attempting to unblock a blocked toilet, it is important to turn off the water supply. This will prevent additional water from entering the bowl and overflowing onto the floor. Locate the valve behind the toilet and turn it clockwise until it stops.

Step 2: Prepare the necessary tools

You will need several tools to unblock a blocked toilet, including a plunger, a bucket, rubber gloves, and a toilet auger. Make sure you have all of these tools before starting the process.

Step 3: Use a plunger

The first step in unblocking a blocked toilet is to use a plunger. Place the plunger over the toilet bowl and press down firmly. Pump the plunger up and down vigorously, creating a vacuum to help dislodge the blockage. Repeat this process several times to see if the blockage has been cleared after each attempt.

Step 4: Use a toilet auger

If the plunger is ineffective in unblocking the toilet, the next step is to use a toilet auger. A toilet auger is a long, flexible tool reaching deep into the drain to dislodge the blockage. Insert the auger into the toilet bowl and twist it clockwise, pushing it further into the drain until you feel resistance. Once you feel resistance, turn the auger counterclockwise to dislodge the blockage.

Step 5: Flush the toilet

After using the plunger or toilet auger, flush the toilet to see if the blockage has been cleared. If the water drains normally, the blockage has been cleared. If not, repeat the process until the blockage has been completely removed.

Step 6: Clean up

Once the blockage has been cleared, use a bucket of water to flush the toilet and clean up any remaining debris. Use a disinfectant cleaner to clean the toilet bowl and surrounding area. Dispose of any used gloves or other materials in a plastic bag and seal them before disposing of them in the trash.

By following these step-by-step instructions, you can unblock your toilet quickly and easily without needing professional help. Remember to take precautions to protect yourself and your home, and always dispose of used materials properly.

When to Call in a Professional Blocked Toilet Plumber

While it can be tempting to try and fix a blocked toilet yourself, there are times when it is best to call in a professional plumber. If you have tried using a plunger or toilet auger to clear the blockage and have not succeeded, it may be time to call a professional. Additionally, if the blockage is severe or persistent, it is best to leave it to the experts.

A professional blocked toilet plumber has the knowledge, tools, and experience to diagnose and fix any plumbing problems quickly and efficiently, ensuring that your toilet is back in working order in no time. They also offer 24/7 emergency plumbing services to help you with urgent plumbing issues.

Final Words

Dealing with a blocked toilet can be a frustrating and embarrassing experience, but it’s a problem that can be easily resolved with the right tools and knowledge. By understanding the common causes of blocked toilets, you can take preventative measures to avoid blockages in the future. In addition, knowing how to unblock a toilet yourself can save you time and money, but it’s important to know when it’s time to call in a professional blocked toilet plumber, like Your Local Plumbing, to avoid making the problem worse.

Whether you choose to DIY or call in the experts, the most important thing is to address the problem immediately to prevent further damage to your plumbing system. Following the tips and guidelines outlined in this blog, you can successfully tackle a blocked toilet and ensure that your bathroom stays clean, hygienic, and functional for years.