When it comes to plumbing issues, clogged toilets can be even worse than clogged drains. Clogs happen when a buildup has collected inside the pipes, or an item was flushed that shouldn’t have been. Thankfully, there are a few tips you can follow to unclog it. Here are a few easy techniques to try.

How to Fix a Clogged Toilet

1. Clean 

Cleaning solutions can help break up the clog and correct the situation. Squirt a fair amount of dish soap into the bowl of your commode and heat some water to almost boiling. Pour the water into the bowl (be careful not to splash yourself with it), and allow it to set for 10-20 minutes before flushing. If this didn’t work, a professional unclogging solution can help. Find one that’s eco-friendly or designed specifically for toilets, and use it as directed on the label. Watch out for harsh chemical solutions, as they can erode the plumbing system or cause skin irritation and burns.

2. Plunge 

If you used a plunger to fix the issue, and it didn’t work, there could be a few reasons. If the clog is deep within the plumbing system, the pressure from the plunger may not be enough to break it loose. You should also ensure you’re using the right type of plunger. Options with only the flipped-bowl shape are best for sinks or a clogged drain, but they don’t work well with toilets. Your plunger should have a flange, a piece of rubber coming out of the bottom of it that has a narrower opening. This part creates a stronger seal, allowing it to effectively break up stubborn clogs.

3. Snake 

If you don’t have one already, buy a drain snake specifically made for toilets; these are called augers. It should be a long piece of plastic or durable material with teeth on it and a crank to turn it. Slide one end into the fixture (into the same hole a plunger goes over) and, using the crank, feed it through the hole until you feel resistance. Give it one or two more turns, wiggle it a little, and then pull the snake back out. If the clog isn’t resolved, try again, but feed more of the snake into it.

If you tried the above techniques and still can’t fix the toilet, call the professionals at London Plumbing & Remodeling in Amador County, CA. A licensed plumber will diagnose your issue and remove the clog in a prompt, efficient manner. Their extensive plumbing services include emergency repairs, pipe repairs, unclogging drains, and installing fixtures. Learn about their plumbing options online, and call (209) 296-3613 to schedule repairs.