Start by using a plunger, which creates a vacuum to force clogs out of drains. Heavy-duty plungers with either ball-shaped heads or rubber flanges on the bottom are much more effective than conventional suction cup-shaped plungers. Make sure the toilet bowl contains enough water to submerge the head of the plunger.
Often referred to as a drain snake, a plumbing auger is a tool that consists of a long, flexible cable with a spiral shaped head that is used to clear blockages in pipes or drains. To clear a toilet clog, the auger is inserted into toilet and twisted by hand, or by machine, to help break up the obstruction.
Start by attempting to plunge the toilet vigorously to dislodge the blockage. If that doesn't work, try using a toilet auger, also known as a plumber's snake, to manually break apart the clog and push it through the drain. Additionally, you can try using a commercial drain cleaner specifically formulated for toilets.
A toilet auger (also commonly known as a plumbing snake) is a toilet unblocker tool that is pushed into the toilet to clear the blockage in the waste pipe.
Drano for toilets is a popular choice for many homeowners when dealing with stubborn clogs. This powerful product has been a trusted solution for many years, effectively breaking down and dislodging blockages that can cause significant inconvenience and potential damage in the bathroom.
A very good method of unclogging a toilet without the need for a plunger is to use dishwashing liquid, especially if the obstruction is only partially blocked or results from grease or organic waste.
The national average cost to unclog a toilet is $200 to $700, with most people spending about $350 for a plumber to use an electric auger to clear the toilet drain clog and test the system. This project's low cost is $100 for a simple drain snaking or professional chemical treatment by a plumber.
Pour several squirts of dishwashing detergent down your toilet, and follow it up with some hot water. Wait for around 30 minutes to give the soap time to work, and then, flush your toilet. If the clog is severe, you can allow the dish soap to sit overnight before flushing the toilet.
Yes, a toilet can unclog itself over time, but it depends on what is causing the blockage. If the clog is made up of water-soluble materials, like toilet paper or fecal matter, then eventually they will begin dissolving if you give them enough time.
The plunger requires a tight seal with the area around the drain. Without that seal, plunging moves water around but does not generate the suction it relies upon for its clog-fighting power. If you have trouble getting a good seal, apply petroleum jelly to the edge of the plunger.
If the blockage is a build-up of tissue paper, pour 3-4 cups of hot (not boiling) water from waist height into the toilet bowl. Give the hot water around 20 minutes to breakdown the blockage.
Check your water levels
Low water levels in your tank are common causes of toilets filling up with water when flushed. They can also cause slow-draining toilets. You can manually top up your tank with water to help the flush. Then, check the flush tube for cracks and bends that lead to leaks.
Make your own drain cleaner by pouring one cup of baking soda and two cups of vinegar into the toilet and adding a half gallon of hot water. Dish soap can also help loosen some obstructions. When using either method, allow the solution to sit overnight and then flush the toilet to see if the obstruction has cleared.
Hydrochloric Acid (Muriatic Acid)
Properties and Uses: Hydrochloric acid, also known as muriatic acid, is a highly corrosive acid used extensively by plumbers to clear severe clogs. It reacts rapidly with organic materials in drains, breaking them down into simpler compounds that can be easily flushed away.
Pouring dish soap down a toilet will unclog many obstructions. Pour 1/2- to 1-cup of dish soap directly in the toilet water and wait about 30 minutes before flushing. Follow the dish soap with a gallon of hot water if dish soap alone does not work.
Pour in Soap & Hot Water
Dish soap is more dense than hot water, and it's also designed to help break down grease and grime—especially mixed with hot water. It should be no surprise, then, that this mixture can also help loosen many materials that can clog a toilet bowl.
Pour in boiling water.
The high heat will help soften compacted paper and flush small pieces away. Repeat using smaller amounts of boiling water if needed. Do not lean over the toilet during this.
Put soda and vinegar into the toilet: Take one cup of white vinegar, which you may have in your pantry, and an equal amount of baking soda – then pour it into the bowl. Put the baking soda in first for a better reaction. You can use smaller amounts for minor blockages.
To give you a rough idea, most blocked toilet clearance jobs will cost between £30 and £60 on average. Just need a quote? If so, we can help! We have a range of local plumbers ready to offer you a free quote!
If you find yourself flushing your toilet, and the bowl fills with water or nothing happens, it's most likely a simple fix clog. The most important thing you can do in this situation is don't flush a second time.
Drano® Liquid Drain Cleaner, Drano® Dual-Force® Foamer Clog Remover, and Drano® Max Gel Clog Remover do not contain microorganisms. The trap configuration in toilets prevents these products from reaching areas where matter can accumulate and cause plumbing problems—so these products are ineffective in toilets.
METHOD #4: DIY DRAIN CLEANER
If you'd rather make your own drain cleaning solution, pour a cup of baking soda and two cups of vinegar into your toilet bowl, followed by plenty of hot (but not boiling) water. Allow the solution to work its magic overnight, then flush.
Mr Muscle Drain Gel can be an effective tool for unclogging toilets if used correctly. It is crucial to follow safety precautions and apply the product properly for the best results.