Clogged toilets can be a major inconvenience and a source of stress, especially if you have multiple bathrooms in your house and more than one toilet gets clogged at a time. Not only are clogged toilets dirty, but if you don't fix them right away, they can also damage your plumbing. So, what can you do to prevent and fix clogged toilets in your house? Here are some tips:
1. Use a plunger
A plunger is a simple yet effective tool for unclogging toilets. It works by creating suction that loosens the blockage in the pipes and allows the water to flow freely again. To use a plunger, place it over the opening at the bottom of the toilet bowl and push down firmly several times. You may need to use some elbow grease, but the plunger should help to loosen the blockage and clear the toilet.
2. Try a toilet auger
If a plunger doesn't work, you may need to try using a toilet auger, also known as a toilet snake. This is a long, flexible rod with a small auger or hook at one end. To use a toilet auger, insert the auger into the opening at the bottom of the toilet bowl and push it through the pipes until it reaches the blockage. Then, turn the auger handle to loosen and remove the blockage.
3. Avoid flushing inappropriate items
One of the main causes of clogged toilets is flushing inappropriate items down the toilet. This includes things like feminine hygiene products, baby wipes, paper towels, and any other non-biodegradable materials. To prevent clogs, make sure to only flush toilet paper and human waste down the toilet.
4. Fix leaks
Leaky toilets can also contribute to clogs, as the constant flow of water can cause waste to build up in the pipes. To fix a leaky toilet, you'll need to first identify the source of the leak. This could be a faulty flapper valve, a broken flush handle, or a cracked tank. Once you've located the problem, you can either try to fix it yourself or call a plumber for help.
5. Use a chemical cleaner
If all else fails, you may need to use a chemical cleaner to help clear the clog. There are many different kinds of chemical cleaners on the market. Some use enzymes to break down organic matter, while others use harsh chemicals to break up blockages. Just be sure to follow the instructions on the package and use caution when handling the cleaners, as some of them can be toxic.
6. Call a plumber
If you've tried all of the above methods and your toilet is still clogged, it's probably time to call a plumber. A professional plumber will have the tools and knowledge to quickly figure out what's wrong and fix it. While it may cost a bit more to hire a plumber, it's worth it to have the problem taken care of correctly and avoid further damage to your plumbing.
When all of our toilets flush when necessary and function properly, life runs smoothly. Since we have never had the need to, we may not be able to estimate how to unclog the toilets. It worked perfectly for years until one day it stopped. Since millennia, clogged toilets have been an issue, but they haven't been discussed much, so few people are aware of how to start working on a remedy.
In conclusion, clogged toilets can be a major headache, but with some simple tools and a bit of know-how, you can usually fix the problem yourself. Just be sure to use a plunger or toilet auger to try to clear the blockage, avoid flushing inappropriate items down the toilet, fix leaks, and use chemical cleaners as a last resort. If all else fails, don't hesitate to call a plumber for help. So, these are some of the ways in which you can deal with clogged toilets in your house and keep your plumbing running smoothly.