Clogged toilets are a common inconveniences of many households that can be very frustrating and uncomfortable at times. Whether it is a minor blockage or a major obstruction, knowing how to effectively address the problem can save you time, money, and frustration. In this guide, we will discuss about what causes toilet clogs, preventive measures and step-by-step repair methods to keep your bathroom in good condition.
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Common Causes of Clogged Toilets
Too Much Use of Toilet Paper: It is said to be the leading cause of clogging by taking too much toilet paper with one flush. Despite being designed for disintegration, excessive amounts may lead to blockages.
Non-Flushable Items: Such things as wipes, sanitary products, cotton balls and even some “flushable” wipes can cause great clogs because they don’t break down easily.
Hard Water Buildup: As time goes on, hard water mineral deposits accumulate in your pipes which reduce its space thereby causing clogs.
Foreign Objects: Toys getting flushed accidentally or toothbrushes as well as other small objects could obstruct the pipes.
Older Plumbing: Having narrower pipes or being vulnerable to tree root invasion which usually results into frequent clogs may characterize older plumbing systems.
Preventative Measures
Use Appropriate Amounts of Toilet Paper: Encourage members of your family to use only necessary amounts of toilet paper and flush several times if needed.
Dispose Non-Flushable Items Correctly: For non-flushable items like wipes, sanitary products among others maintain a trash bin inside the bathroom
Install a Water Softener: If you live in an area with hard water consider getting a water softener installed so as to reduce mineral buildup.
Routine Maintenance: Regular inspections of your plumbing system are beneficial in identifying and addressing potential problems before they become major issues.
Step-by-Step Guide to Clogged Toilet Repair
Step 1: Determine the Gravity of the Clog
First determine whether it is a minor clog or a severe one before you do anything about it. If water is still flowing albeit slowly, then it is probably a minor clog. However, if there’s too much water that doesn’t drain away at all, chances are high that the issue is more serious than just a simple blockage.
Step 2: Collect Required Tools
Plunger: The most basic tool for many clogs.
Toilet Auger: For tougher blockages.
Rubber Gloves: To protect your hands.
Bucket: In case there’s an overflow or mess on the floor.
Step 3: Use a Plunger
Positioning the Plunger: Make sure that the entire toilet drain hole is covered by the plunger such that there will be no leakage.
Proper Plunging Technique: Start gently with little pressure and then gradually increase it using push-pull motion. Repeat this process several times.
Flush the Toilet: If water drains out well, then it means you have cleared up the clog. If not, proceed with next step.
Step 4: Try a Toilet Auger
Inserting an Auger: Directly insert auger into toilet bowl and turn clockwise until blockage is reached.
Breaking Up Clog Material.: Gently push and twist to break up or hook onto obstructions using an auger.
Removing Auger and Flushing : After dislodging the clog remove your auger and flush down water so as to ensure that there are no more blocks within its span of operation.
Step 5: Use a Homemade Solution
Baking Soda and Vinegar: Pour one cup of baking soda and another cup containing vinegar into your toilet bowl. Wait for about 30 minutes and then flush using hot water.
Step 4: Convince a Professional.
If, after trying all the above methods and the clog remains, you should call a plumber. The persistent clogs could be indicative of more serious plumbing issues that demand for professional assistance.
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