How To Unplug A Clogged Toilet
A clogged toilet is one of those things in life that just happens. It isn’t pleasant and can end up being a huge, stinky, disastrous mess if it isn’t taken care of quickly! Most clogs are not a huge deal and don’t require an expensive call to the plumber. You can often take care of the problem yourself with just a few supplies from your favorite local hardware store, Greenwood Hardware!
Plunging
The go-to for unclogging a toilet is a plunger. These are very inexpensive and should be kept around, just in case you need to deal with a minor plug. To use the plunger, position the suction cup over the hole in the toilet. Push down and quickly pull up. The suction should hold and then pop when pulled. You will likely need to do this several times. For stubborn clogs, push the suction cup down and push down on the handle several times with quick thrusts before pulling the plunger completely up. When the water begins to drain, continue to plunge until the plug is completely removed.
Snaking
You can buy mechanical or hand snakes that can be fed into the hole of the toilet. The metal cordage is tough enough to dislodge whatever is plugging the toilet. In some cases, the snake can be used to pull the item out of the toilet to avoid it being pushed further down the pipe and causing serious problems. The snakes are handy tools to have around and can be used on sink drains as well.
Toilet Removal
In worst case scenarios, you may have to pull the entire toilet off of the floor to get to the pipe that goes into the floor. You will need to loosen the fastening screws on either side of the toilet and carefully pull it up. You should be able to get at the clog fairly easily from here. If needed, use a snake if the clog is further down the pipe.
A clogged toilet is never fun, but it happens, especially with curious toddlers around. Make sure you have the tools needed to quickly get your toilet back into commission! Having a pair of rubber gloves and some safety goggles would be wise as well. You will find what you need to unclog your toilet at Greenwood Hardware. Come on in, or contact us today!