Few home maintenance problems are as frustrating as a clogged toilet
bowl. It's inconvenient, messy, and can bring your daily routine to a
screeching halt. But don't worry---with the right tools and steps, you
can usually clear a clogged toilet yourself without the need for an
expensive plumber. This guide will walk you through diagnosing and
fixing the problem step-by-step, so you can get your bathroom back in
working order quickly and confidently.
Why is my toilet bowl clogged?
Toilet clogs are a common household issue. According
to HomeAdvisor, one of the most
frequent causes is flushing items that aren't designed to break down in
water, like wipes, paper towels, or hygiene products. Other culprits
include too much toilet paper, foreign objects accidentally dropped into
the toilet, or a buildup of debris in the pipes. While occasional clogs
are normal, recurrent blockages might indicate a bigger problem with
your plumbing system.
Tools you'll need to unclog a toilet
Before diving in, it's helpful to have these tools on hand:
- A plunger (preferably one with a flange for better sealing)
- A toilet snake (also called an auger)
- Rubber gloves (optional)
- A bucket and towels (for cleanup)
You can find these items at your local hardware store or online. They're
affordable, and having them around could save you from a costly plumber
visit in the future.
Step 1: Assess the situation
The first thing to do when your toilet bowl is clogged is to identify
whether there's a visible blockage. Take a look into the bowl. Can you
see anything that's obstructing the drain, such as a foreign object or
excessive toilet paper?
If you see a blockage
If you can spot the clog, start with a plunger.
- Place and seal the plunger over the hole at the bottom of the toilet
bowl. Make sure you've created a good seal---this helps generate the
necessary pressure to dislodge the clog.
- Push and pull rapidly on the plunger several times. Use quick,
forceful motions, but avoid splashing.
- Remove the plunger and check if the water drains. If not, repeat the
plunging process as needed.
Flush the toilet
After using the plunger, try flushing the toilet. If the water drains
properly, congratulations---you've fixed the issue!
If you can't see a blockage, or if the toilet still doesn't flush properly...
If the clog persists, it's time to bring out the toilet snake.
Step 2: Use a toilet snake
A toilet snake is a flexible, coiled tool designed to navigate the
twists and turns of your plumbing system. It's perfect for breaking
apart stubborn clogs or retrieving objects lodged deep in the drain.
- Insert the end of the toilet snake into the hole at the bottom of
the toilet bowl.
- Rotate the handle to extend the snake down the drain. Continue until
you feel resistance---this means the snake has reached the clog.
- Rotate the handle five more times to break up or latch onto the
blockage.
- Reverse the direction of the handle to retract the snake.
- Remove the snake and dispose of any debris it collects.
Flush the toilet again
Once you've used the snake, test the toilet by flushing it. If the water
drains properly, the clog is gone. If not, repeat the process or
consider calling a plumber for professional help.
How Casa can help
Casa makes home maintenance easier than ever. Whether you're dealing
with a clogged toilet or another common home maintenance issue, our AI
expert talks you through step-by-step guides to diagnose and fix the
problem. And if you need professional help, we'll schedule that for you
and help you find the best price.
Download the Casa app today and take the stress out of home repairs!
When to call a plumber
Most clogs can be resolved with a plunger or toilet snake, but there are
situations where you'll need expert assistance. For example:
- The clog keeps recurring, even after repeated attempts to fix it.
- You suspect a more significant issue, such as tree root intrusion or a
damaged sewer line.
- Water is backing up into other drains in your home (a sign of a deeper
plumbing problem).
According to Angi, hiring a plumber for a
clogged toilet typically costs between $100 and $275, depending on the
severity of the issue. While this isn't cheap, it's worth it to prevent
further damage to your plumbing system.
Preventing future clogs
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, especially when it
comes to toilet clogs. Follow these tips to keep your toilet running
smoothly:
- Flush only toilet paper and human waste. Avoid flushing wipes,
feminine products, or anything labeled "flushable" but not
biodegradable.
- Limit toilet paper use. Excessive amounts can quickly block your
pipes.
- Install a drain screen. This can help catch foreign objects before
they go down the drain.
- Perform regular maintenance. Periodically clean your toilet and
inspect it for any signs of wear or leaks.
Conclusion
Dealing with a clogged toilet bowl isn't anyone's idea of fun, but with
the right approach, it's a manageable problem. By following these steps
and keeping a few essential tools on hand, you can resolve most clogs
quickly and effectively. And remember, the Casa app is here to support
you every step of the way---whether you're tackling a minor issue or
facing a major plumbing problem.
Say goodbye to stress and hello to a home that works for you!
