What to Do If You Cannot Unclog Your Toilet With a Plunger
Dealing with a clogged toilet can be a frustrating experience, especially when a plunger doesn’t seem to solve the problem. However, there are still several options you can try before calling a professional plumber. In this blog post, we will explore alternative methods to unclog a toilet when the trusty plunger doesn’t do the trick.
1. Use a Toilet Auger:
A toilet auger, also known as a closet auger, is a specialized tool designed to unclog toilets. Unlike a regular plunger, which creates pressure to dislodge clogs, a toilet auger has a long, flexible cable that can reach deeper into the toilet drain. To use a toilet auger, insert the cable into the toilet bowl and turn the crank to maneuver the cable through the drain. By rotating the auger, you can break up and remove the clog that the plunger couldn’t handle.
2. Hot Water and Dish Soap:
If you don’t have a toilet auger on hand, you can try using a combination of hot water and dish soap to unclog the toilet. Start by boiling a pot of water and pouring it into the toilet bowl from waist height. The force of the hot water can help dislodge the clog. Then, add a few tablespoons of liquid dish soap into the toilet bowl. Wait for about 15 minutes to let the soap lubricate the clog. Finally, flush the toilet, and hopefully, the combination of hot water and dish soap will clear the obstruction.
3. DIY Drain Snake:
If you’re feeling handy, you can create your own makeshift drain snake to unclog the toilet. Take a wire coat hanger and straighten it out, leaving one end with a small hook. Insert the hooked end into the toilet drain and gently push it through, rotating and maneuvering it to break up the clog. Be careful not to scratch the porcelain while attempting this method. Once the clog is loosened, flush the toilet to see if it clears.
4. Baking Soda and Vinegar:
The combination of baking soda and vinegar is a popular natural remedy for unclogging drains. To use this method, start by pouring half a cup of baking soda down the toilet bowl. Follow it with half a cup of vinegar. The mixture will create a bubbling and foaming reaction. Let it sit for around 30 minutes, allowing the chemical reaction to break down the clog. Afterward, flush the toilet to see if the clog has been cleared. If necessary, repeat the process.
5. Enzyme-based Drain Cleaners:
Enzyme-based drain cleaners are another option to try when dealing with a stubborn toilet clog. These cleaners use natural enzymes to break down organic matter, which is often the cause of toilet clogs. Follow the instructions on the product and pour the recommended amount into the toilet bowl. Leave it to work overnight or for the recommended time on the packaging. Flush the toilet afterward to see if the clog has been resolved.
Conclusion:
Dealing with a clogged toilet is never fun, especially when the trusty plunger doesn’t do the job. However, before calling a professional plumber, there are several alternative methods you can try. Using a toilet auger, hot water and dish soap, a DIY drain snake, baking soda and vinegar, or enzyme-based drain cleaners can help break up and clear the clog. By exploring these options, you can save time and money while successfully unclogging your toilet. Remember to exercise caution and stop attempting any method if it seems to be causing further damage.
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