How to Clear a Clogged Toilet

Clogged toilets can be panic-inducing, but when you’re facing a clog, the most important thing you can do is stay calm. Otherwise, you might go into full panic mode and freeze, and then you’ll have to deal with a clogged toilet that’s also overflowed. Here is what the plumbing professionals at Drain Rescue Plumbers want you to know about clearing a clogged toilet.

Step One: Turn off the Water

If youjust flushed a clogged toilet and the water is rushing up without draining back down, then you need to turn off the water shutoff valve behind the toilet to stop the flow of water and prevent the toilet from overflowing. To shut the water off, turn the valve to the right (clockwise).

Step Two: Locate the Right Plunger

There are various types of plungers that are suited for different jobs, and there are ones that work best with toilets. These are called flange plungers, and they have an extra rubber flap attached to the bell. These flaps ensure proper suction in oddly shaped drains, making them perfect for toilets.

Step 3: Fill the Bowl the Right Amount

Plunging is a bit of an art, and it requires just the right amount of water: too little and you won’t get enough suction; too much and you could end up splattered. There should be just enough water to immerse the bell of the plunger. If there’s too much water, remove some with a bowl.

Step 4: Plunge Away

Pop out the flange from inside the plunger and stick it into the toilet. Gently press the flange against the drain to form a seal. Plunge slowly but with some force and do this 15 to 20 times to force water back and forth through the drain and (hopefully) remove the clog. Remove the plunger, turn the water on by turning the valve to the left (counter-clockwise), and give it a test flush. Repeat these steps if necessary.

Step 5: Call in the Pros to Unclog a Stubborn Toilet

While it may be tempting to plunge and plunge until you achieve your DIY clog removal goals, you can do more harm than good. Plunging involves a lot of force and pressure, and you can potentially damage your pipes if you do it wrong. Similarly, you don’t want to resort to chemical drain cleaners that can damage and corrode your pipes. If plunging wasn’t successful, contact the plumbing professionals at Drain Rescue Plumbers to diagnose the clog and deal with it properly and with the right tools.