How Do I Unclog My Toilet?

Most of us have experienced the unfortunate event of a clogged shower, sink, and/or toilet. Clogged toilets are common household issues that can occur at any given moment, leaving you with messy disaster. Fortunately, they are easy to fix and can be tackled by any homeowner. Continue reading to learn how to unclog your toilet and avoid flooding your bathroom.

3 Ways to Unclog Your Toilet

Here are the three most effective ways to unclog a blocked toilet that doesn’t drain.

The Plunger

One of the most common solutions to a clogged toilet is a rubber plunger. About 90% of the time, a plunger is all you need to unclog your toilet. The best kind of plunger to have on hand is the rubber bell-shaped kind that has an extension flange to help properly plunge the toilet. We suggest having a plunger on hand to help prepare yourself for any unexpected emergencies. Plungers range anywhere from $5-$20, but are usually affordable and can even help address other household issues, such as clogged sinks and tub drains.

In the case of a clogged toilet, here’s how you use your plunger:

1. Insert the plunger into the toilet and align the rubber flange in the hole to properly seal the rubber against the porcelain.
2. Begin pushing and pulling the plunger out forcefully to help dislodge the clog. Repeat this 15-20 times.
3. Keep towels on hand for any water that splashes or spills out of the toilet bowl.
4. After plunging, remove the toilet’s tank lid and lift the flapper valve to make sure water is filling the toilet bowl as it normally would.
5. If the water in the tank goes down, then you can flush the toilet to test if the clog has been removed.
6. If the water doesn’t go down, and the system is still clogged, don’t flush the toilet just yet. Try repeating the process again to dislodge the clog and test the water before flushing. Flushing while still clogged can cause flooding, which is both damaging to your bathroom and unsanitary.

The Snake

If the plunger doesn’t seem to do the trick, there are still other options you can attempt before calling a plumber. Many homeowners have success using a plumbing snake, or a wire hanger they have unwinded to mimic a plumbing snake, to remove the clog. All you have to do is insert the snake down the hole in the toilet bowl, as far as you can. Then, turn the snake clockwise to help dislodge the clog and catch any debris. After this, pull the snake out and dispose of any materials extracted from your toilet.

The Professionals

If you still can’t get rid of that toilet clog, then it may be time to call the professional plumbers at ACE Home Services. Our trustworthy plumbers are experienced and trained to tackle any plumbing problem you may have.

Contact ACE Home Services for All Plumbing Needs

Whether it’s a clogged drain problem or plumbing emergency, ACE is here for you whenever you need us. Contact ACE Home Services today at (602) 428-3341  to schedule a service call!