Here’s a complete guide on the best way to unclog a toilet:
A clogged toilet can be a major inconvenience and can cause embarrassment, especially if you have guests over. While it’s not a pleasant task, unclogging a toilet is something that everyone will need to do at some point in their lives. Fortunately, there are several ways to unclog a toilet, and with a little bit of effort, you can get your toilet working again in no time.
Step 1: Assess the severity of the clog
Before you start trying to unclog the toilet, it’s important to assess the severity of the clog. If the water is rising quickly and there is a risk of overflowing, you need to act fast. In this case, you should turn off the water supply to the toilet by turning the valve at the base of the toilet. If the water level is not too high, you can proceed with the following steps.
Step 2: Gather your tools
To unclog a toilet, you’ll need a few tools. These include a plunger, a bucket, rubber gloves, and a toilet auger. A plunger is the most common tool used for unclogging a toilet, while a toilet auger is useful for more stubborn clogs.
Step 3: Use a plunger
The first step in unclogging a toilet is to use a plunger. Begin by placing the plunger over the toilet drain and pressing down firmly. Next, push and pull the plunger up and down quickly. The suction created by the plunger should help to dislodge the clog. If the clog is particularly stubborn, you may need to repeat this process several times.
Step 4: Use a toilet auger
If the plunger doesn’t work, it’s time to try a toilet auger. A toilet auger is a long, flexible cable that is inserted into the toilet drain. To use the auger, insert the cable into the drain and turn the handle clockwise. Continue turning the handle until you feel resistance, then turn it counterclockwise to release the clog.
Step 5: Check the drain
Once you’ve used the plunger or toilet auger to dislodge the clog, flush the toilet to see if the water drains properly. If the water drains slowly or not at all, there may still be some debris blocking the drain. Use a flashlight to check the drain for any visible blockages.
Step 6: Clean up
Once the clog has been cleared, it’s important to clean up any mess that may have been caused by the clog. Use a disinfectant cleaner to clean the toilet bowl, seat, and surrounding area.
Preventing future clogs
To prevent future clogs, it’s important to be mindful of what you flush down the toilet. Never flush non-degradable items such as sanitary products, wipes, or cotton swabs. In addition, try to use less toilet paper to reduce the amount of waste in the toilet.
Conclusion:
Unclogging a toilet can be a messy and unpleasant task, but with the right tools and a bit of effort, it’s something that anyone can do. Remember to assess the severity of the clog before you start, and always use a plunger before resorting to a toilet auger. Finally, take steps to prevent future clogs by being mindful of what you flush down the toilet.
