A clogged toilet can be an uncomfortable and frustrating experience, one in which you want resolved quickly.
Naturally, you may want to do your best to solve the problem on your own before calling out the experts. If the blockage is superficial enough, there are instances where you can resolve the issue on your own, but in most cases, a blocked toilet needs to be resolved by a professional plumber.
A blocked toilet occurs when something gets stuck within the toilet drain, stopping water and waste from flushing down. There are a few common causes for this occurring, including flushing non-flushable items such as wipes, feminine hygiene products, or paper towels, as well as excessive toilet paper or foreign objects (parents will be familiar with this one) such as toys or jewellery. If you are experiencing a blocked toilet, it should be fixed promptly to avoid potential health hazards, unpleasant odours, and water damage.
If you have a minor blockage (i.e. you can see the source of the blockage), you can often resolve the issue yourself. You will need a few tools in order to get started on unblocking your toilet;
If, after the steps provided, you are still unable to unclog your toilet, it’s time to call in the experts. If your toilet is badly blocked, especially if it’s a deep blockage caused by tree roots, you will need the expertise of a plumber. These are the signs it’s time to call in a professional plumber;
Here are a few things you can do to avoid future toilet blockages;
In rare cases, a blocked toilet may unblock itself without intervention, but it’s not common. When a toilet is blocked, it means that there is an obstruction in the drain pipe that prevents water and waste from flowing freely. This can be caused by various reasons such as toilet paper buildup, foreign objects, or other debris.
Sometimes, if the obstruction is minor and the water level in the toilet bowl is high, it may gradually dissolve or break down over time, allowing the water to flow and unblocking the toilet. However, this is not a reliable or guaranteed process, and it may take a significant amount of time for the obstruction to dissolve or dislodge on its own, if at all.
In most cases, a blocked toilet requires some form of professional intervention to efficiently and promptly clear the blockage.
Yes, hair can sometimes contribute to a blocked toilet, especially if you shave over the toilet or empty your hairbrush down the toilet. It’s best to avoid flushing hair down the toilet as this can lead to a potential blockage.
While it’s uncommon, tree roots can potentially block a toilet or cause other plumbing issues. Tree roots are attracted to sources of moisture, and if there are cracks or gaps in the underground plumbing pipes near a toilet, tree roots may invade and grow inside the pipes in search of water. This is particularly true of older houses with clay pipes, as they tend to allow moisture to seep through.
Over time, as the roots grow, they can cause blockages by accumulating debris or by directly obstructing the flow of water and waste.
When tree roots invade plumbing pipes, it can be a serious issue that requires professional intervention and root clearing devices. The roots can continue to grow and cause further damage to the pipes, potentially leading to leaks, bursts, or even complete pipe collapse. Tree roots are strong and can exert significant pressure on pipes, leading to blockages or other plumbing problems.
If you suspect that tree roots may be causing a blockage in your toilet or other plumbing pipes, it’s important to contact a professional plumber to assess the situation and determine the appropriate course of action. This may involve clearing the roots, repairing or replacing damaged pipes, and addressing any other issues caused by the root intrusion. It’s essential to address tree root intrusion promptly to prevent further damage to your plumbing system.
Although minor blockages can be resolved with a bit of elbow grease and a plunger, most of the time you will need professional help. Always keep in mind preventative measures to avoid future blockages.
Engaging the services of a certified toilet repair plumber ensures that you have access to their expertise and specialised tools, which can be invaluable in diagnosing and resolving more complex issues such as a blocked sewer line, tree root blockages, or a malfunctioning toilet flapper valve.
If you need help with a stubborn toilet blockage and are located in Perth, get in touch with the experienced team of blockage plumbers at Proud Plumbing. We will have your toilet back to full functionality in no time.
