Ever been in a messy (and smelly) situation with a blocked toilet and water rising to worrying levels? Don’t worry! We have a detailed guide on how to deal with this plumbing problem.
From assessing the water level to using the right tools like a plunger or toilet auger, we’ll walk you through every method to unclog that toilet like a true pro.
So roll up your sleeves, grab your tools, and let’s get to work!
Key Takeaways
- Observe and determine the height of the water in the toilet bowl.
- Check for blockages and identify the cause of the problem.
- Use a plunger to dislodge any blockage and lower the water level.
- If all else fails, call a professional plumber for assistance.
Assess the Water Level
To assess the water level, we need to carefully observe and determine the height of the water in the toilet bowl. Before attempting to unclog a toilet with high water, it’s crucial to check for blockages and determine the cause of the problem.
Start by inspecting the toilet bowl and noting the water level. If the water is unusually high, it indicates a potential blockage. Next, visually inspect the drain hole at the bottom of the bowl. Look for any visible obstructions that may be causing the water to rise.
Additionally, use a toilet plunger to see if you can dislodge any blockage, which could help lower the water level. Once you have assessed the water level and identified potential blockages, it’s time to gather the necessary tools and supplies for unclogging the toilet.
Gather Necessary Tools and Supplies
Let’s gather the necessary tools and supplies to unclog a toilet with high water.
Here are the items you’ll need:
- Plunger: A plunger is a basic tool for unclogging toilets. Make sure it has a good seal to create the necessary suction.
- Rubber gloves: To protect your hands from any potential mess, wear rubber gloves before beginning the unclogging process.
- Bucket: Have a bucket nearby to remove excess water from the toilet bowl, especially if it’s already filled with high water.
- Plumbing snake: A plumbing snake, also known as a toilet auger, is a long, flexible tool used to remove stubborn clogs deep within the pipes.
By having these tools and supplies ready, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle common toilet problems with high water levels.
Try a Plunger
We will begin by using a plunger to unclog the toilet when the water is high. The plunger is a tool designed specifically for this purpose and is a commonly used method for resolving toilet clogs.
Here’s how to use a plunger effectively:
- Ensure the plunger is clean and in good condition.
- Place the plunger over the drain hole in the toilet bowl, ensuring a tight seal is formed.
- Push the plunger down firmly and then pull back, creating suction and pressure to dislodge the clog.
- Repeat this plunging motion several times, maintaining a steady rhythm until the water starts to drain.
- If the plunger doesn’t work, try using alternative methods such as a toilet auger or a chemical drain cleaner. However, exercise caution when using chemicals as they can be harmful if not used correctly.
Use a Toilet Auger
To unclog a toilet when the water is high, we can employ a toilet auger. A toilet auger is a tool specifically designed for clearing clogs in toilets. Here are some steps to use a toilet auger effectively:
- First, put on gloves to protect your hands from any potential mess.
- Insert the auger’s flexible cable into the toilet bowl, making sure it goes through the trapway.
- Rotate the handle clockwise to extend the cable further into the drain.
- Once the auger reaches the clog, continue rotating the handle to break up the obstruction.
- Slowly retract the cable while continuing to rotate it, which helps to gather the clog.
- Finally, discard the collected debris and flush the toilet to ensure it’s fully cleared.
Toilet auger maintenance is crucial for its longevity and efficiency. Regularly clean the auger after use and check for any signs of wear or damage. Additionally, it’s helpful to know some toilet auger alternatives, such as using a wire coat hanger or a plumbing snake if a toilet auger isn’t available.
Call a Professional Plumber if All Else Fails
If all else fails, it may be necessary to call in a professional plumber to unclog the toilet when the water is high. While DIY toilet unclogging techniques can often do the trick, there are cases where the clog is stubborn or beyond your expertise.
Hiring a plumbing service ensures that you have a trained and experienced professional who can effectively resolve the issue. When you call a professional plumber, they’ll bring specialized tools and equipment to diagnose and fix the problem efficiently. They’ve the knowledge to identify the underlying cause of the clog and use the appropriate techniques to unclog the toilet without causing further damage.
Additionally, a professional plumber can provide expert advice on how to prevent future clogs and maintain the proper functioning of your toilet.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Can I Prevent My Toilet From Getting Clogged in the First Place?
Toilet clog prevention is important to maintain proper functionality. Regular maintenance is key to avoiding clogs. Follow these toilet maintenance tips: flush only toilet paper, avoid flushing foreign objects, and use a plunger when necessary.
Can I Use a Regular Household Plunger to Unclog a Toilet?
Yes, you can use a regular household plunger to unclog a toilet. However, there are also alternative techniques for unclogging toilets that may be more effective depending on the situation.
Are There Any Household Items I Can Use as an Alternative to a Toilet Auger?
We can use various household items as alternatives to a toilet auger for unclogging a toilet. DIY methods include using a wire hanger, baking soda and vinegar, or a toilet brush to clear the blockage.
What Are Some Signs That Indicate I Should Call a Professional Plumber?
Before seeking professional assistance, one should be aware of the common causes of toilet clogs and ways to prevent them. Taking steps such as using a plunger or drain cleaner can often resolve the issue before contacting a plumber.
Can I Use Chemical Drain Cleaners to Unclog a Toilet?
Chemical drain cleaners should not be used to unclog a toilet due to safety concerns. Instead, there are alternative methods that can be employed. These methods will be discussed in detail to provide a step-by-step guide for unclogging a toilet.
Conclusion
In conclusion, unclogging a toilet when the water level is high can be a frustrating task. However, with the right tools and techniques, it can be resolved efficiently.
By assessing the water level, using a plunger or toilet auger, and calling a professional plumber if necessary, you can successfully tackle this problem.
Remember, when it comes to unclogging toilets, patience and perseverance are key, as the saying goes, ‘Rome wasn’t unclogged in a day.’
With an impeccable eye for detail and a passion for bathroom-related, Ava leads our editorial team gracefully and precisely.
Under her guidance, Best Modern Toilet has flourished as the go-to resource for modern bathroom enthusiasts. In her free time, you might find Ava exploring antique shops and looking for vintage bathroom fixtures to add to her collection.
