How Do You Unblock A Toilet Bowl

Having a clogged toilet can be a major inconvenience. Whether it’s a minor or complete blockage, knowing how to tackle the problem can save you time and frustration. 

So, how do you unblock a toilet bowl? Here, we’ll go through some practical steps and tips to help you get your toilet back in working order.

First Understand The Problem

Before diving into the methods for unblocking a toilet bowl, it’s important to understand what might be causing the blockage. Common culprits include:

• Excessive Toilet Paper: Using too much toilet paper can lead to clogs.
• Foreign Objects: Items that shouldn’t be flushed, like toys or sanitary products, can create serious blockages.
• Flushing Issues: Sometimes, the toilet’s flushing mechanism may not be powerful enough to push waste through.

Identifying the cause can help you choose the best method for unblocking the toilet.

How to Unblock a Toilet Bowl: Step-by-Step
     1. Gather Your Tools

Before you start, it’s a good idea to have a few essential tools on hand:

• Plunger: A flange plunger is best for toilets.
• Toilet Auger: This is a flexible tool designed to break up clogs further down the pipe.
• Rubber Gloves: Protect your hands while you work.
• Bucket: In case you need to remove water from the bowl.
  

  2. Try the Plunger

The plunger is often the first line of defence when learning how to unblock a blocked toilet bowl. Here’s how to do it:

• Make Sure There’s Enough Water: If the bowl is empty, add enough water to cover the plunger.
• Position the Plunger: Place the plunger over the hole and ensure a tight seal.
• Push and Pull: Pump the plunger up and down vigorously for about 20 seconds. 

Then, pull it out quickly to see if the water drains. Repeat if necessary.

    3. Use a Toilet Auger

If plunging doesn’t work, you might need to know how to unblock a toilet bowl using a toilet auger:

• Insert the Auger: Push the auger into the toilet bowl, making sure to follow the curve of the pipe.
• Crank the Handle: Turn the handle to break up the blockage. This might take some time, but be patient!
• Remove the Auger: Once you feel resistance lift, pull the auger out slowly. Check if the clog has been cleared.
  
  

  4. Hot Water and Dish Soap

Another method on how to unblock a toilet bowl involves using hot water and dish soap:

• Pour Dish Soap: Add about half a cup of dish soap into the bowl and let it sit for a few minutes. The soap can help break down grease and other materials causing the blockage.
• Add Hot Water: Carefully pour hot (not boiling) water from waist height into the bowl. This can help dislodge the clog.
• Wait and Flush: Allow it to sit for 10-15 minutes before trying to flush.
  
  

  5. Call a Professional

If you’ve tried all the above methods and still can’t unblock a toilet bowl, it may be time to call in the professionals. A plumber has the tools and expertise to deal with stubborn clogs effectively.

Prevention Tips

To avoid future blockages, consider the following tips:

• Limit Toilet Paper Use: Use only what you need.
• Educate Family Members: Make sure everyone knows what can and cannot be flushed.
• Regular Maintenance: Consider scheduling regular plumbing checks to catch potential issues early.

Knowing how to unblock a toilet bowl can save you from a lot of hassle and embarrassment. Whether you try plunging, using a toilet auger, or a combination of methods, keeping a cool head is key. If you find yourself overwhelmed or unable to fix the issue, don’t hesitate to reach out for help.

At Alkimos Plumbing & Gas, we specialise in toilet bowl repairs and replacements in Perth and surrounding areas. Our experienced team is ready to assist you with any plumbing issues you may encounter. 

Restore Your Toilet’s Function