Since COVID-19 left lost incomes and financial insecurity in its wake, Aussies across the continent are delving into DIY home improvement to cushion the blow.
Although we’re a resourceful bunch, DIY plumbing jobs can cause more damage than they can fix! And in most cases, the problem is never gone for good.
But, we’re not going to sit here and tell you that you can’t fix a blocked toilet yourself. You can – it just may take some time, elbow-grease, and guidance from our experts!
At Priority Plus Plumbing, you are our priority. That’s why we endeavour to educate you to help make your life easier when times are tough.
So, here’s how you can fix a blocked toilet DIY-style!
STEP 1: Pinpoint The Problem
If you can easily see what’s blocking your toilet, grab your rubber gloves and try removing it. But, if there aren’t any visible blockages, it’s time to get creative!
STEP 2: Hot, Soapy Water
Squeeze a little bit of dishwashing liquid into half a bucket of hot water. Then, from waist height, pour this solution directly into the toilet bowl and let it sit for a couple of minutes.
STEP 3: Loosen The Blockage
Although a standard plunger will do, you’d be better off buying a heavy-duty plunger with a flanged base to fix your blocked toilet the first time around.
Place your plunger into your toilet bowl and make sure it completely covers the hole at the bottom.
Then, press down firmly, but slowly, and repeat. If this doesn’t solve the problem, don’t worry. It will have at least loosened the blockage to make the next step easier!
STEP 4: Hook The Blockage
To hook and pull out the blockage, we’ve got a sneaky trick for you!
Unravel a wire coat hanger to use as your hook. If nothing bites, don’t fret. This technique is tailored for blockages that are within the first five to ten centimetres of your drain.
In this case, you’ve likely got a deeper blockage on your hands.
STEP 5: Last Resort
Get your hands on enzyme-based chemicals.
These non-corrosive chemicals won’t damage your drains. But, they will help break down any solid, organic matter that has blocked your toilet!
You can pour this in to try to loosen up and break down the blockage as a last resort before repeating the whole process.
Or, get half a bucket of hot water, add baking soda and vinegar, and try the same tactic. Just make sure you give it some time to work first!
If that doesn’t work, move on to step 6.
STEP 6: Swap Your Plunger For A Plumber
If you’ve made it to step 6, I’m sorry to tell you, but it’s time to call in the cavalry!
Unfortunately, some blockages are either too severe or too deep to DIY them away. And leaving your blocked toilet not only prevents you from using it, but will also cause more costly future problems.
In this case, your best bet is our team at Priority Plus Plumbing!
After serving the Sutherland Shire and surrounding Sydney suburbs since 1996, we’ve seen and unblocked it all! With our specialist tools and tactics, we’ll obliterate any blockage – no matter how big.
Whether you need professional help or simple advice, call us today!
