Blocked toilets are a common household issue that can lead to significant inconvenience and stress. Not only do they disrupt your daily routine, but they can also require the expertise of an emergency plumber if not addressed promptly. In this blog post, we’ll explore the common causes of a blocked toilet, effective solutions, and preventative measures to keep your bathroom running smoothly.
Common Causes of Blocked Toilets
- Excessive Toilet Paper Use One of the primary culprits of a blocked toilet is the overuse of toilet paper. While designed to break down in water, too much can create clogs, particularly in older plumbing systems.
- Foreign Objects Toys, sanitary products, and other non-flushable items can easily become lodged in your toilet’s trap. Educating household members about what can and cannot be flushed is essential to prevent these blockages.
- Tree Roots If your home has trees nearby, roots can infiltrate sewer lines over time, leading to blockages. This often requires professional drain unblocking services to resolve effectively.
- Hard Water Buildup Hard water can lead to mineral buildup in your toilet and plumbing, creating obstructions. Regular maintenance and cleaning can help mitigate this issue.
The best way to identify the issues causing a blocked toilet is to contract a professional service to perform a CCTV drain survey.
Solutions for Blocked Toilets
1. Plunging
The first step in dealing with a blocked toilet is often plunging. Use a toilet plunger with a flanged end for the best results. Ensure there’s enough water in the bowl to cover the plunger, and use firm, even pressure to dislodge the blockage.
2. Using a Toilet Auger
If plunging doesn’t work, a toilet auger may be your next best option. This tool can reach deeper clogs that a plunger can’t. Carefully insert the auger into the toilet and twist it to break up or retrieve the blockage.
3. Homemade Solutions
For minor clogs, a mixture of baking soda and vinegar can be effective. Pour one cup of baking soda followed by one cup of vinegar into the toilet bowl. Allow it to fizz for about 30 minutes before flushing.
4. Professional Help
If your efforts are unsuccessful, it may be time to call an emergency plumber. They have the tools and expertise to handle severe blockages and can identify underlying issues, including blocked drains that may be contributing to the problem.
Check out our blocked drains services for further information.
Preventative Measures
- Educate Your Household Make sure everyone in your home knows what can be flushed. Stick to toilet paper only, and use a wastebasket for anything else to avoid blocked toilets.
- Regular Maintenance Schedule regular plumbing inspections and clean your toilets to prevent buildup. This can include descaling with vinegar or a commercial cleaner designed for hard water.
- Avoid Flushing Chemicals Some people flush chemicals or drain cleaners in an attempt to clear clogs. These can damage your plumbing over time and may not effectively resolve the issue.
- Install a Toilet with a Larger Trap If you frequently experience a blocked toilet, consider upgrading to a toilet with a larger trapway. This design allows for better waste flow and reduces the likelihood of blockages.
You can learn more about preventative measures at our Planned Preventative Maintenance page.
Conclusion
Blocked toilets are not only a nuisance but can also lead to more significant plumbing problems if not addressed. By understanding the common causes and implementing preventative measures, you can keep your toilet functioning properly. If you find yourself facing a persistent blockage, don’t hesitate to seek professional drain clearance services or call an emergency plumber. Keeping your bathroom in good working order ensures peace of mind and a more pleasant home environment.
Should you require the services of a professional, please contact us for assistance.
