A clogged toilet is a very common problem that most homeowners will face at some point. There are a few different things that can cause a toilet to become clogged, and there are also a few different signs that you may have a clog. Luckily, there are also a few different ways that you can fix a clogged toilet on your own. However, sometimes it is best to call in a professional to help you with this problem.
Sometimes a toilet will unclog itself if you leave it for a few hours. This is due to the fact that most items will start to soften in water depending on what is causing the blockage.
What causes a clogged toilet?
Common causes of a clogged toilet
One of the most common causes of a clogged toilet is when someone tries to flush something down the toilet that doesn’t belong there, such as paper towels or sanitary wipes. These items don’t break down like toilet paper does, and they can quickly cause a blockage. Other common causes of clogged toilets include:
-Hair: Hair can build up in the drain over time and eventually cause a blockage.
-Grease: Cooking grease can solidify in cold water and cause a clog.
-Children’s toys: Kids love to flush things down the toilet, but their toys can easily get stuck and cause a clog.
How to prevent a clogged toilet
There are several things you can do to prevent your toilet from becoming clogged in the first place. First, make sure everyone in your household knows what should and shouldn’t be flushed down the toilet. Second, have a plunger handy in case someone does accidentally flush something that doesn’t belong. Finally, regularly inspect your drains for any buildup of hair or grease so you can clean them out before they cause a problem.
What are the signs of a clogged toilet?
Obvious signs of a clogged toilet
The most obvious sign that your toilet is clogged is that it won’t flush. If you try to flush and nothing happens, or the water level in the bowl rises without flushing away any waste, you’ve got a problem.
Another sign that your toilet is clogged is if it starts making strange noises. A toilet that gurgles when you flush or makes whistling sounds may be indicating that there’s a blockage somewhere in the pipes.
Subtle signs of a clogged toilet
If your toilet seems to be taking longer to drain than usual, this could be a sign of a partial blockage. Water will still be able to drain away slowly, but if the blockage gets worse, it could eventually lead to a complete blockage and a toilet that won’t flush at all.
If you notice an unpleasant smell coming from your toilet or bathroom, this could also be a sign of a clogged toilet. This is because waste can start to build up in the bowl and cause an unpleasant smell.
How can you fix a clogged toilet?
Do-it-yourself methods for fixing a clogged toilet
If you have a plunger, the first thing you should try is plunging the toilet. If that doesn’t work, there are a few things you can try before calling a professional.
One option is to use a wire hanger to fish out the obstruction. Be careful not to scratch the bowl with the hanger. Another option is to pour a pot of boiling water into the bowl and let it sit for a few minutes before flushing. This can sometimes break up whatever is causing the blockage.
If neither of these methods works, your next step is to remove the toilet tank lid and see if you can identify the problem. If you can reach it, try using pliers or your hands to remove the obstruction. If you can’t reach it, you may need to call a professional.
When to call a professional for help fixing a clogged toilet
If you’ve tried all of the do-it-yourself methods and still can’t fix your clogged toilet, it’s time to call a professional plumber. They will be able to quickly identify the problem and get your toilet back up and running in no time!
Conclusion
A clogged toilet is a nuisance that nobody wants to deal with. But unfortunately, they happen from time to time. The good news is that there are some things you can do to prevent a clogged toilet and there are also ways to fix a clogged toilet.
The most important thing to do is to be aware of what causes a clogged toilet. Common causes include flushing items that shouldn’t be flushed, such as feminine hygiene products or diapers. Another common cause is simply having too much paper build-up in the pipes. To prevent a clogged toilet, make sure you only flush items that are meant to be flushed and try to clear the pipes of paper build-up on a regular basis.
There are both obvious and subtle signs of a clogged toilet. Obvious signs include water backing up into the bowl or overflowing from it. Subtle signs include the bowl taking longer than usual to empty after being flushed or water draining slowly from the tank. If you notice either of these signs, it’s time to take action to fix the problem.
There are several do-it-yourself methods for fixing a clogged toilet, such as using a plunger or a plumber’s snake. However, if these methods don’t work or if you’re unsure how to proceed, it’s always best to call a professional for help. A professional will be able to quickly identify the cause of the problem and provide an effective solution.