Don’t you hate it when you’re in the middle of using the toilet and suddenly, the water won’t go down? Or worse, the water starts to overflow onto the floor? A blocked toilet drain can be an unpleasant and frustrating experience, but don’t panic! With a little know-how and some basic tools, you can fix most blocked toilet drains yourself.
Here is a guide to help you out when you suspect a blocked toilet drain, what not to do and when to call an emergency plumber in Sydney. Let’s get started!
What Are the Signs of a Blocked Toilet Drain?
A blocked toilet drain can be a major inconvenience and cause great damage if not promptly addressed. That is why you need to know the signs of a blocked toilet drain so you can take action to prevent further damage and restore proper drainage.
If you notice any of the following signs, it may indicate that your toilet drain is blocked:
- Slow drainage
Does your toilet take longer than usual to drain after flushing? This is a sign that there may be a blockage in the drain. This could be caused by a buildup of toilet paper, human waste or other foreign objects.
- Gurgling sounds
When you flush the toilet, do you hear strange gurgling noises coming from the drain? This could mean that there is a blockage somewhere in the pipes, causing air bubbles to form and escape through the toilet.
- Foul odours
A blocked toilet drain can cause foul odours to emanate from the toilet bowl. This is due to the buildup of stagnant water and waste in the pipes.
- Water overflow
If water starts to overflow from the toilet bowl, it could be a sign that the drain is completely blocked. This is a serious issue and requires immediate attention.
What Not to Do
When you suspect a blocked toilet drain, take action and call a professional emergency plumber in Sydney right away. However, there are also some things you should avoid doing in the meantime to prevent further damage or complications.
Firstly, don’t use chemical drain cleaners as they can actually worsen the blockage and potentially damage your pipes. These products often contain harsh chemicals that can corrode your pipes and create leaks, leading to even more costly repairs.
Secondly, avoid flushing more water down the toilet in an attempt to clear the blockage. This can cause the toilet to overflow and worsen the situation.
Lastly, it’s important to resist the temptation to remove the blockage yourself. Using tools like coat hangers or plumbing snakes can cause damage to your pipes and potentially make the blockage worse.
What to Do When Your Toilet Drain Is Blocked
Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do when your toilet drain is blocked:
- Turn off the water supply: Before you start unclogging the toilet, turn off the water supply to prevent any water from overflowing. Locate the valve behind the toilet and turn it off by turning the handle clockwise.
- Prepare the plunger: Get a plunger and ensure it has a tight seal. You can wet the rubber part of the plunger to make it more pliable.
- Plunge the toilet: Place the plunger into the toilet bowl and push it down until it creates a tight seal. Slowly and steadily push and pull the plunger to create suction. Repeat this process a few times, then flush the toilet to see if the water drains normally.
- Check for hidden blockages: If the plunger doesn’t work, you may need to check for hidden blockages. Put on rubber gloves, grab a flashlight and look inside the bowl for any visible signs of blockage, such as toys, tissue paper or other objects.
- Use a plumbing snake: If you still can’t find the blockage, you can use a plumbing snake. Insert the snake into the toilet and twist it until you feel resistance. Push and pull the snake to break up the blockage.
- Call an emergency plumber in Sydney: If none of these methods works, it’s time to call a professional plumber. They have specialised equipment and expertise to handle even the most stubborn blockages.
Emergency Drains: Your Local Trusted Sydney Plumbers
When facing a blocked toilet drain, it’s important to know when to call in the professionals. As a local emergency plumber in Sydney, we recommend calling for our services in situations where the blockage is severe or persistent or if there’s a sewage backup. Additionally, if you’ve tried the DIY methods and are still having trouble with your toilet, it’s best to call us right away.
Our team of experienced and reliable plumbers are equipped to handle any plumbing emergency, including blocked toilet drains. We’re available 24/7 to quickly respond to your call and provide efficient and effective solutions to your plumbing problems. Contact us when you need an emergency plumber in Sydney.
