How to Unclog a Toilet?

by Kevin Smith Author

A clog in your toilet can easily ruin your day. Clogged toilets are a fairly common plumbing issue and they can usually be fixed with the use of a plunger. Toilets can become easily clogged, whether it be due to an internal operation, or someone sticking foreign material inside of it. Fortunately, unclogging your toilet is fairly easy to do. Use the steps below to learn how to unclog your toilet and when you should call a professional.

Plungers

To clear obstructions from your toilet, all you need is a handy plunger. However, there are three main types of plungers you should familiarize yourself with: a flange plunger, accordion plunger, and cup plunger. The flange plunger, which is the most common one, is best used for unclogging a sink drain or bathtub. Both accordion and flange plungers are specifically designed to suction to the bottom of your toilet, freeing any blockages from your plumbing in Athens, GA.

How to Use a Flange or Accordion Plunger

Before you start plunging your toilet, you should empty out at least half the water from the bowl. Next, cover the area around the toilet with towels to protect your floor from water overflowing the sides. By taking these precautionary steps, you can prevent a messy cleanup and additional damage because of your clog.

You should then place the plunger in the toilet bowl, directly onto the drain opening. Next, use powerful thrusts to push down on the plunger and send pressure down the drain. Doing this will free the obstruction and unclog your toilet. To see if the blockage is cleared, pour some water into the toilet and see if it goes down the drain easily. If it doesn’t, the block is still in place. Keep on repeatedly pushing the plunger against the drain of your toilet bowl until the clog is removed.

When You Should Call a Plumber

If you notice additional plumbing problems with your clogged toilet, calling a plumber should be your first move. For example, if you see water backing up unto other drains around your home when you flush your toilet, you should contact a professional as this can be a serious problem with your main line. Additionally, if you are unable to remove the clog with your plunger, you should call a professional to fix your plumbing in Athens, GA. They have the tools and skills needed to quickly remove the blockage and ensure your toilet is functional once again.