How to Fix a Clogged Toilet 

Clogged toilets present more than just an inconvenience; they can escalate into a serious issue. It’s a scenario that many of us have experienced—approaching the bathroom, flushing the toilet, and instead of the water draining, it begins to rise. This situation demands prompt attention. 

At Pickerington Plumbing & Drain, we understand the urgency of resolving such plumbing problems. Bear in mind that delaying the unclogging process can lead to more severe issues that can affect not only your bathroom but potentially your entire home. This is why it is essential to address a clogged toilet immediately. 

Horrors of a Clogged Toilet:   

  1. Overflow and Water Damage: A clogged toilet poses an immediate risk of overflow, which can lead to significant water damage to your bathroom. When toilet water spills over, it threatens not only your bathroom floor but also the subflooring and potentially the ceiling below in multi-story homes. The longer the water remains, the more extensive and costly the damage becomes, making prompt attention essential.  
  1. Plumbing System Backups: It’s important to recognize that a clogged toilet is not just a localized problem; it can trigger backups in your plumbing system. This means that sinks, showers, and even your home’s main sewer line may also be affected. The result can be multiple fixtures rendered unusable, leading to a major plumbing crisis that requires immediate professional intervention.  
  1. Health Hazards: It goes without saying that overflow from a toilet creates unhygienic conditions. Stagnant water from a clogged toilet can become a breeding ground for bacteria and mold. When toilet water spills over the bowl, it creates an unspeakable situation that extends beyond unpleasant odors to significant health risks. Therefore, addressing a clogged toilet promptly is imperative to ensure a safe and sanitary environment in your home. For all your plumbing needs, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for expert assistance. 

Solutions to Fix a Clogged Toilet:  

While seeking professional assistance is often the most effective solution, here are some immediate steps you can take to manage a clogged toilet: 

  1. Utilize a Plunger – A plunger is your primary tool for tackling this issue and is an essential item for every bathroom. To efficiently address a toilet clog with a plunger: 
  • Firmly grasp the plunger handle with both hands and position the suction cup ends in the toilet bowl, ensuring it completely covers the drain hole. 
  • Verify that you have a solid seal around the toilet drain; it should be level and flush against the bowl all around. 
  • Execute a steady and consistent plunging motion by pulling the plunger’s cup back without breaking the seal. This technique is designed to dislodge the clog. 
  • Repeat the plunging motion until the bowl begins to drain steadily. 

By following these steps, you can effectively manage a clogged toilet while awaiting professional help. For further assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to a qualified expert. 

  • Hot Water and Dish Soap: To address a toilet clog effectively, consider using dish soap combined with hot (not boiling) water. Dish soap, designed to break down grease and grime, can soften the blockage. Follow these steps:  
  1. Heat at least a gallon of water on the stove, ensuring it is hot but not boiling to avoid damaging the porcelain. Exercise caution.  
  1. While the water heats, pour dish soap directly into the toilet bowl.  
  1. Once the water is hot (but not boiling), carefully pour it into the toilet bowl.  
  1. Allow the mixture to sit for a minimum of 5 minutes to give it time to work on the clog before attempting to flush.  
  • Auger or Plumbing Snake: For persistent clogs, utilizing plumbing auger or plumbing, available at most home improvement stores, can effectively reach deeper into the pipes to clear the blockage. Insert the plumbing snake into the drain and twist it to break up or extract the clog.  
  • Call a Professional: If you have exhausted all options and the clog remains unresolved, it is advisable to contact a professional plumber, such as Pickerington Plumbing & Drain. We possess the necessary tools and expertise to diagnose and rectify the issue promptly, ensuring no further damage occurs. Don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance with your plumbing needs. 

A clogged toilet can quickly transform from a minor inconvenience into a significant issue. It is essential to act promptly and resolve the problem to prevent it from affecting other areas of your home. Remember, our professional plumbing services are readily available, ensuring that your plumbing system remains in excellent condition. Don’t wait for a small problem to escalate into a larger disaster—contact us today for reliable solutions! 

For all your plumbing scares and concerns, please don’t hesitate to call Pickerington Plumbing & Drain today at (614) 350-1955, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here! 

Pickerington Plumbing & Drain

(614) 350-1955

Whole Home Protect