Blocked Toilet

Signs Your Toilet requires attention:

Here are the top signs you might need a plumber for your toilet:

1. Constant Running Water: If your toilet keeps running after flushing, it may indicate a faulty flapper or valve.

2. Frequent Clogs: Regular blockages could signal a deeper issue in your plumbing system.

3. Weak Flush: A weak or incomplete flush may point to a problem with the fill valve or water pressure.

4. Leaking Water: Water pooling around the base of your toilet suggests a broken seal or cracked tank.

5. Unusual Noises: Gurgling or hissing sounds often indicate a blockage or air trapped in the pipes.

6. Cracks in the Toilet: Visible cracks in the bowl or tank can lead to leaks and inefficiency.

7. Foul Odours: Persistent sewage smells may mean a clogged or damaged vent pipe.

8. Wobbly Base: A toilet that shifts or rocks could have a loose connection or deteriorating flange.

If you notice any of these issues, contacting a plumber promptly can prevent costly damage and ensure your toilet functions properly.

How to unblock a toilet – DIY ideas.

We recommend that contact us to assist you with your blocked toilet issues so we can offer our professional service.

Some ideas

1. Use a Plunger

• Ensure there is enough water in the bowl to cover the rubber part of the plunger.

• Create a seal around the drain and plunge forcefully several times.

• If it starts to drain slowly, keep plunging until it’s fully cleared.

2. Hot Water and Dish Soap

• Pour a generous amount of dish soap into the bowl.

• Follow with a bucket of hot (not boiling) water.

• Let it sit for a few minutes and try flushing.

3. Baking Soda and Vinegar

• Pour one cup of baking soda into the bowl, followed by two cups of vinegar.

• Wait about 30 minutes, then flush with hot (not boiling) water.

If none of these work, or if the toilet keeps clogging frequently, it may be best to call a plumber.

Q&A’s

Why does my toilet keep clogging?

Frequent clogs can result from several issues:

• Flushing inappropriate items: Items like wipes (even those labeled as “flushable”), feminine products, paper towels, and other non-degradable materials can cause blockages. 

• Excessive toilet paper use: Using too much toilet paper, especially thicker varieties, can lead to clogs. 

• Low-flow toilets: Older low-flow models may lack the necessary pressure to clear the bowl effectively. 

• Blocked plumbing vents: A clogged vent can affect flushing pressure, leading to frequent clogs. 

2. Can certain toilet designs cause frequent clogs?

Yes, the design of a toilet can influence its propensity to clog:

• Older low-flow models: Early low-flow toilets might not provide sufficient flushing power, leading to frequent clogs. 

• Toilet trap design: The S-shaped trap in toilets can become a common point for clogs, especially if non-flushable items are introduced. 

• Flushing mechanism: Some designs may have weaker flushing mechanisms, making them more prone to clogs.

Regular maintenance and mindful usage can help prevent many common toilet clogs.