There are many reasons why a toilet will develop a clog. For instance, improper items could have been flushed down the toilet such as paper towel, diapers, or a child's toy. Also, too much toilet paper flushed down the toilet can cause a clog. Although a clogged toilet can be a very frustrating experience, depending on the severity of the clog, there are a number of a ways that you can unclog a toilet without having to call a plumber.
The first choice to unclogging a toilet is using a plunger. It is important to use a quality plunger that is made of a thick and durable rubber. There should also be a cup in the middle of the rubber plunger head. Position the plunger with the cup over the toilet drain. Make sure the rim of the plunger is placed all the way around the hole so you will create a strong ring of suction when you start to plunge. Press down on the plunger using both hands and then pull out with great force. Continue pushing and pulling repeatedly. As you plunge, you should feel some resistance building which will allow you to plunge more forcefully. When you finally break through the clog, you will feel the pressure suddenly decrease and there will be a whooshing sound as the water and clog is pushed through the pipes. It is important to allow the water to flush completely. It can take up to 10 plunges to clear a clogged toilet.
If the plunger does not unclog the toilet, you can use a toilet snake. Toilet snakes are also effective at removing toys and other large items that were accidentally flushed down the toilet. A snake has a tool on the end that is used to grasp and chew at a clog. Feed the tool end of the snake into the toilet drain pipe. Feed it through the plumbing until you reach the clog. Once you reach the clog, you can grasp the clog and pull it out or manoeuvre the tool to break the clog apart. Once you have removed the obstruction, retract the snake and bring it out of the toilet. Then, flush the toilet to make sure the water is flowing through the system properly.
If you cannot remove the clog with a snake or plunger, you may have to remove the toilet and manually remove the clog. In this situation, it is best to enlist the services of a professional plumber who has the experience to remove such a tough toilet clog. As well, the plumber will have special tools and products that are much more effective at removing a clog so you may not have to remove the toilet to manually retrieve the clog. As well, if you are considering using a chemical toilet cleaner, it is important to be aware that some cleaners can be corrosive and they can destroy the bacteria in the septic tank. There are natural toilet products available which are effective at removing clogs.
In most situations, a homeowner can easily unclog a toilet. However, if you are having a really tough time unplugging your toilet, you should call a plumber as it may be an indication of a more serious plumbing problem.