A blocked toilet is one of those household issues that always seems to occur at the most inconvenient time. It is not only a nuisance, but it can also be a source of stress, particularly if you are not sure what to do next. Some blocked toilets can be sorted out at home, but others require the attention of a professional.

Before panic sets in or water starts rising, there are a few steps that you can take to reduce the problem and prevent further damage. This guide explains what to do when a toilet is blocked and when it is best to stop and call in experts who know how to unblock toilets properly –  so let us get started.

Main Things to Look after Before you Call a Plumber to Unblock Toilets

Stop Flushing

When you notice that your toilet is not draining properly, the most important thing to do is to stop flushing immediately. Repeated flushing can cause the water level to rise and overflow, leading to a much bigger mess and potential water damage.

If the water level is already high, remove the toilet lid and gently lift the float valve to stop more water from entering the cistern. This simple step can prevent overflow while at the same time can also make you evaluate the situation properly.

Check for the Obvious Cases

Many toilet blockages are caused by everyday items that should not be flushed. These can include:

• Excessive toilet paper
• Wet Wipes (even the flushable ones)
• Sanitary Products
• Paper Towels
• Children Toys or Foreign Objects

If you can see the blockage near the surface and it sounds safe, then wearing gloves and carefully removing the object may solve the problem immediately.

Try a Plunger

A plunger is often your best first tool for finding out minor blockages. Make sure you are using a toilet plunger, not a flat sink plunger, because it is mainly designed to create a proper seal.

To use it effectively, you must keep in mind the below aspects:

• Ensure that there is enough water in the bowl to cover the plunger head
• Place the plunger firmly over the drain opening
• Push down gently first, then plunge with steady pressure
• Repeat several times and see if the water begins to drain

If the water level drops, the blockage may be cleared. Flush once carefully to test – but stop immediately if the water rises again.

Use Hot Water

If the blockage appears to be caused by excess paper or waste, pouring hot (not boiling) water into the bowl may help loosen it. Boiling water can crack the porcelain, so always let it cool slightly before use.

Pour the water slowly from waist height to add pressure without splashing. This method works best for soft blockages and should never be forced.

Don’t use Any Chemical Drain Cleaners

This is a bad idea for toilets because these products can:

• Damage Pipes
• Harden the Blockage
• Create Hazardous Fumes
• Make professional repairs more difficult

Experienced plumbers with years of experience generally recommend avoiding chemicals altogether, especially if you are unsure what is causing the blockage.

When to Stop and Call a Professional to Unblock Toilets

You should call a professional plumber if:

• Your toilet is constantly backing up
• More than one drain is clogged
• You hear gurgling noises
• Water is overflowing or leaking
• The clog keeps coming back

Professional plumbers have the necessary skills and equipment to unblock your toilet without causing any further damage.

When to Call an Experienced Plumber to Unblock Toilets – Know from the Experts Themselves!  

A clogged toilet is not always an emergency that requires professional assistance right away—but it is equally important to know what not to do as it is to know what to do. Simple steps such as not flushing the toilet further, plunging correctly, and not using harsh chemicals can go a long way in preventing the problem from worsening until help arrives.

If you are still in doubt about how to unblock toilets or if the problem persists, consulting a reputable plumber with actual experience can make all the difference. Experienced plumbers such as Dillon’s Plumbing can diagnose the problem and solve it for good the first time around.