Encountering a clogged toilet is an ordeal that many wish to avoid, yet it remains an inevitable part of property maintenance. This plumbing predicament not only causes inconvenience but also poses the risk of water damage and unsanitary conditions if left unresolved. Additionally, a clogged toilet can quickly escalate from a minor annoyance to a major crisis, disrupting the flow of daily life and potentially leading to expensive repairs. By delving into the intricacies of toilet maintenance and clog prevention, individuals can save time, money, and avoid the discomfort associated with this common plumbing issue. In this article, you will learn the causes of toilet clogs, the tools required for unclogging, and steps on how to plunge a toilet.
How to Prevent Toilet Clogs
It is important to know how to keep the toilet clog-free. Toilet clogs occur when waste material, excessive toilet paper, or non-flushable items accumulate and block the pipes. In addition, this obstruction prevents water and waste from flowing freely from the toilet bowl to the sewer system, leading to a backup.
Tools Needed to Plunge a Toilet
Knowing what type of plunger is needed to plunge a toilet is good to know. A high-quality plunger with a flange extension is an essential tool for addressing a clogged toilet. Additionally, rubber gloves are recommended for hygiene, and old towels or newspapers should be laid out to protect the floor from splashes.
How to Plunge a Toilet
Now that you have the tools you need to unclog a toilet, let’s take a look at the steps you need to take.
1) Prepare the Work Area: Spread old towels or newspapers around the toilet base to catch any spills.
2) Wear Protective Gloves: Slip on a pair of rubber gloves to prevent direct contact with bacteria and waste.
3) Position the Plunger: Place the flange plunger over the toilet’s drain hole. Ensure the flange is inserted into the hole to form a tight seal.
4) Initiate the Seal: Gently press down to expel trapped air and establish a vacuum within the drain.
5) Perform the Plunge: With a firm grip, use a forceful in-and-out motion to dislodge the clog. The pressure created by the plunger should help break up the obstruction.
6) Test the Drainage: After a series of plunges, sharply pull the plunger off to break the seal. Observe if the water drains swiftly.
7) Repeat if Necessary: If the water doesn’t drain, repeat the plunging process until the clog is dislodged. You want to make sure the water flows freely.
The Differences Between Plungers
Knowing the difference between plungers is important. Two plungers exist: the cup plunger which is designed for flat surfaces like sinks. The other one is the flange plunger, which has an additional rubber flap to provide a better seal for toilets.
Other Toilet Maintenance
Regular maintenance is key to also keeping the toilet clog-free. This includes flushing only waste and toilet paper and keeping the toilet clean to prevent buildup. Also, check the tank components to ensure proper operation.
First, it is a good idea to know that salt is beneficial for your toilet. Sounds odd, but it is a natural cleaner, eliminates odor, is cost-efficient, and is eco-friendly.
Another is turning off the water supply to your toilet. Behind the toilet or underneath the toilet is the valve. Turn it clockwise and flush the toilet. You should be able to see if there are any leaks. If you run into any issues, contact a professional.
When Do I Call a Professional?
Don’t be afraid to enlist the help of a professional if you are having trouble. Professional help should be sought when the plunger does not clear the clog after several attempts. Also, when clogs become frequent, or when water consistently overflows. Lastly, call a professional when objects are suspected to be lodged deep within the plumbing system.
Conclusion
While you can resolve most clogs when you plunge the toilet, prevention is easier for you in the long run. Recognizing when a problem is beyond your ability to fix is important, and in such cases, calling a professional plumber is the best course of action to prevent further damage and maintain the plumbing system’s integrity.
While taking care of the toilets in the home, it is a good time to call on House Inspection Associates to conduct a full home inspection in the Virginia, D.C., and Maryland areas.
