The way your toilet works is through pipes connecting the cistern or bowl in your bathroom to the sewage network outside. While these are essential, even the most minor issues can cause these pipes to become blocked over time.
Causes of a Blocked Toilet
There are various potential causes of a blocked toilet pipe, some of which can be handled immediately and quickly, and others that might require specific equipment or even professional plumbing services. Some common causes include a build-up of toilet debris or too much toilet paper being flushed at once. A foreign object impeding water flow could also cause a blockage.
Other causes also might involve the quality of your toilet water or the strength of your toilet. For example, worn pipes might lead to your toilet being weaker when flushing, or if your pipes contain hard water, this may lead to the hard water calcifying and the water having a more difficult time getting through the pipes after flushing.
Depending on the severity of that blockage, it could mean that you need to call in a professional plumber to unblock your pipes. However, before you get a professional plumber to help unblock your toilet, take a look at these simple tricks for unclogging your toilet, as recommended by a professional Newcastle plumber:
Remove any Build-up From the Drain
If the blockage is minor, you may be able to unblock the toilet yourself. However, if the blockage is in an area you can’t reach or is particularly stubborn, you may need to contact a professional plumber. Before doing anything else, it’s essential to remove any blockage that’s currently in the toilet. To do this, simply fill a bucket with warm water and pour it down the drain. This will unclog any build-up and help you find the source of the blockage.
Get Rid Of Residue With Baking Soda And Vinegar
If the blockage is due to debris build-up, you can clear it out by mixing a cup of baking soda with a cup of vinegar. Simply pour the baking soda and vinegar into the bowl, then wait as they react and fizz inside the bowl. After at least twenty minutes, simply flush the mixture down the toilet, which should help remove any lingering sediment causing the blockage.
Make Sure The Water Level Is Correct
If the water level in your toilet is too low, then it may cause the pipes to become blocked. You can check the water level by removing the lid of your toilet tank. Then, ensure the water level is around an inch below the tube in the middle of the tank. Use the fill valve to raise the water level if it is more than two inches too low.
Add a Plunger to the Mix
You can also try manually removing the blockage with a plunger. Plumbing and home improvement stores sell these in various sizes and designs. You can use a toilet plunger to unclog a toilet by placing the end of the plunger into the toilet and then placing the plastic cup onto the blockage. Then, push down the cup to move the water and dissolve the waste. Keep pushing and pulling on the plunger for about 20 seconds to dislodge the blockage.
Conclusion
Your toilet is an essential part of your home. That being the case, taking care of it and ensuring it runs smoothly is vital. Keep it clean – dirty toilets can lead to blockages and other problems. Make sure your flushing is efficient, and there are no blockages in the pipes. With the right tips and tools, you can clear any blockages in no time. However, don’t hesitate to call a professional if you cannot unclog the toilet yourself. Get a professional plumber to help unblock your toilet if you need help.