Dealing with a blocked toilet is something no one enjoys. But at Ohana Plumbing, we know that even the most frustrating plumbing issues have straightforward solutions. Whether it’s a minor clog or a more stubborn blockage, here’s everything you need to know about unblocking a toilet and when it might be time to call in a professional.
Common Causes of Toilet Blockages
Toilet blockages are typically caused by one of three things: too much toilet paper, foreign objects, or issues deeper in the drainage system. Sometimes, a quick fix will do the job, but in other cases, you may need to dig a little deeper—especially if the blockage is recurring or affecting other parts of your plumbing.
- Excessive Toilet Paper: One of the most common causes of a blocked toilet is simply using too much toilet paper. This can easily create a clog, especially in older systems.
- Foreign Objects: Items like sanitary products, wipes, or even small toys can get stuck in the pipes, causing a blockage that won’t clear without extra help.
- Drainage Issues: Sometimes, the problem goes beyond the toilet. If your home’s drain system is backed up, it can cause issues with flushing and lead to overflowing or slow-draining toilets.
Step-by-Step: How to Unblock a Toilet
- The Plunger Method: The classic plunger is often your best friend when it comes to blocked toilets. Ensure there’s enough water in the bowl to cover the plunger’s rubber cup. Position the plunger over the drain and push down firmly, creating a suction. After a few plunges, the water should start to drain. If it does, you’ve successfully cleared the blockage!
- Hot Water and Dish Soap: If you don’t have a plunger on hand, pouring hot (not boiling) water into the toilet bowl can help break down softer blockages. Add a few squirts of dish soap to the water first—this will help loosen up the blockage. Wait about 10-15 minutes and try flushing again.
- Use a Drain Snake or Auger: If the plunger or hot water trick doesn’t work, a drain snake or auger can be more effective. These tools are designed to reach deeper into the pipes and dislodge whatever might be causing the blockage. Gently feed the snake into the toilet bowl and turn the handle to push it further into the drain until you feel resistance. Then, twist and pull the blockage free.
- Baking Soda and Vinegar: A natural and eco-friendly alternative is using a mix of baking soda and vinegar. Pour a cup of baking soda into the toilet followed by two cups of vinegar. The mixture will fizz and bubble, working its way through minor clogs. After about 30 minutes, pour hot water into the toilet and see if the blockage clears.
When to Call the Professionals
If you’ve tried these methods and your toilet is still blocked, it may be time to contact a licensed plumber. At Ohana Plumbing, we’ve seen it all—from minor clogs to serious drainage issues that require more specialized equipment. Our team is trained to quickly diagnose the problem and offer long-lasting solutions. We also use advanced techniques, like CCTV drain inspections, to identify and address blockages deep within the system.
Preventing Toilet Blockages
Preventing a blocked toilet can save you a lot of hassle (and stress). Here are some simple tips to keep things running smoothly:
- Limit Toilet Paper Use: Try to use less toilet paper or flush multiple times if needed.
- Avoid Flushing Non-Flushables: Only human waste and toilet paper should be flushed. Anything else—including wet wipes, sanitary products, and cotton swabs—should be disposed of in the bin.
- Regular Maintenance: Keep an eye on your plumbing and get regular inspections, especially if you live in an older home.
At Ohana Plumbing, we’re here to help you keep your home running smoothly. Whether it’s unblocking a toilet, fixing a leak, or upgrading your plumbing system, we offer transparent pricing and top-quality service to every customer. Contact us today if you’re dealing with a plumbing issue—we’ll get your system back in working order with no hidden surprises.
