Clogged toilets may seem like a simple DIY fix, but there are scenarios when they’re actually a plumbing emergency!
It’s always extremely troubling when you flush your toilet and see the contents only continue to fill up the bowl instead of going down your drain. Clogged toilets are very common throughout Northern Utah, and most people don’t think about their toilets until they find themselves in a tough situation.
The truth is that clogged toilets can sometimes be much more than inconveniences, and there are certain scenarios in which they qualify as a plumbing emergency. Although some DIY tricks can temporarily alleviate a clog, there are many other times when these methods simply won’t cut it.
Below we’ll be going over common causes of toilet clogs, DIY unclogging methods, and when you can know that it’s time to call in our Master Plumbers!
Why Is My Toilet Not Flushing?
There of course are many different causes for toilet clogs, but the most common cause is that someone has flushed something that simply wasn’t meant to go down your drains. Toilets are only designed to handle certain materials, like toilet paper and your other business.
Some of the most common household items that are improperly flushed include the following:
- “Flushable” wipes
- Paper towels
- Wet wipes
- Tissues
- Dental floss
- Cotton balls
- Feminine hygiene products
- Q-tips
- And a lot more…
When these types of items are flushed, it can potentially lead to serious restrictions within your unit’s drainage system. These types of restrictions are what commonly lead to persistent backups. Although simply using a plunger can alleviate some minor clogs, there are other scenarios in which professional help will be required.
It’s also important to note that your toilet may not be flushing due to issues involving your property’s sewer line. Sewer line repairs are often needed in these types of scenarios, and this is always the type of plumbing job that should be left in the hands of Beehive’s experienced specialists.
DIY Toilet Unclogging Tips
Although it’s sometimes unadvisable, we understand how most people will try their best at unclogging their toilets on their own. Below are three DIY tips to keep in mind when your toilet has become clogged:
The Old, Reliable Plunger Method
Using a plunger to unclog a toilet is of course one of the most basic DIY tips, and we always recommend keeping at least one plunger in your home for these types of scenarios.
Just remember that your first push is meant to eliminate any excess air and create a seal, and then your next pumps will need to be carefully done in order to maintain the air seal. When you think you’ve done enough pumps, you’ll release the plunger and break the air seal you’ve created. This can sometimes do the trick as you could potentially see the water properly flushing down your drain again.
Baking Soda & Vinegar
Sometimes a plunger isn’t available or isn’t quite doing the trick, and this is when you can turn to a classic drain cleaning home remedy in baking soda and vinegar.
All you’ll need to do is pour in baking soda and let it sit for about 15 minutes before slowly pouring in about two cups of vinegar. You’ll then see the chemical reaction occur via bubbles, and you’ll let this solution do its magic for a handful of minutes before trying to flush again.
Hot Water & Dish Soap
This is another relatively easy DIY toilet unclogging technique, and it only requires hot water, soap and a plastic cup.
You’ll first want to remove some water from your toilet bowl manually, which is why you’ll likely want to use gloves for this method. The reason why you need to remove water is because you’re going to end up pouring about a gallon of hot water into your toilet bowl and will need plenty of room.
Be sure to add dish soap into your bowl prior to pouring the hot water, and make sure that your water is hot but not quite at boiling temperature. You’ll then let this mixture sit for a half hour or more before trying to flush again.
When To Know It’s Time To Call In Professional Help
If your toilet has remained clogged after a few DIY attempts, then this is your sign that you’re likely going to need professional assistance. There are many other scenarios in which your toilet clog could be categorized as an emergency that needs immediate attention, and other times you could make an appointment for the next business day.
The good news is that the Beehive Plumbing team is here for you 24/7, and our specialists are just a phone call away when you need us!
Reach Out To Beehive Plumbing When You’re In A Plumbing Emergency In Northern Utah!
Beehive Plumbing is an industry leader throughout the Salt Lake City Metro Area because we’ve been there time and time again when our clients have needed us. Our team of Master Plumbers is the very best in the entire region, and our expertise will be exactly what you need when you’re experiencing a pesky toilet clog.
Reach out to us online or call us at 801-661-8155 to speak with one of our team members today about what’s happening with your toilet!
