A blocked toilet is one of the most inconvenient plumbing issues you can face at home. Whether caused by excessive paper, foreign objects, or hard water buildup, it can create a mess and a smell that’s difficult to ignore. But, when should you attempt to fix the blockage yourself, and when should you call in the professionals?
Common Causes of Blocked Toilets
A blocked toilet is a common household issue, understanding its causes can help prevent future problems.
Excessive Toilet Paper: One of the most common causes of toilet blockages is using too much toilet paper at once. Toilets are designed to handle a moderate amount of paper, but overloading the system can result in blockages. If the paper doesn’t break down quickly, it can clog pipes.
Foreign Objects: Items like baby wipes, sanitary products, or even small toys can cause severe blockages. These materials don’t break down easily in water, and they often get stuck in narrow plumbing pipes.
Hard Water: Hard water, often common in older homes, contains minerals like calcium and magnesium. Over time, these minerals can build up inside the pipes, causing blockages and slow drainage. It can also make it more difficult for your toilet to flush properly.
Tree Roots: In areas with lots of trees, roots can grow into and invade underground sewer pipes, leading to major blockages. This is especially common if the plumbing system is older or poorly maintained.
Faulty Toilet Components: Old, worn-out parts like a faulty flapper or a weak flush valve can affect your toilet’s performance, leading to frequent clogs.
Sewer Line Problems: In rare cases, issues with the main sewer line can affect your toilet. If multiple toilets in the house are experiencing problems, it’s a sign that the blockage may be deeper in the plumbing system.
DIY Fixes
Before reaching out to a plumber, there are a few DIY fixes you can try:
Plunge It: If the blockage is near the surface, a toilet plunger can often do the trick. Make sure to use a plunger designed for toilets, as it has a flange that creates a better seal.
Use a Toilet Auger: For tougher blockages that are deeper in the pipes, a toilet auger (or plumbing snake) can break through the obstruction. Gently feed the auger into the toilet and turn the handle to dislodge the clog.
Baking Soda and Boiling Water: If you don’t have an auger, try pouring a cup of baking soda into the toilet, followed by boiling water. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes. The combination can break down smaller clogs or help loosen things up.
While these methods can work for minor blockages, they aren’t a solution for more serious problems.
When to Call a Plumber
Some blockages require professional intervention. If you notice any of the following symptoms, it’s time to call a plumber:
Slow Drainage: If the water drains slowly after a flush, the blockage may be farther down the pipes. A plumber can assess the situation and clear the pipes using specialised equipment.
Rising Water Levels: If the water level rises above normal after flushing, it’s a sign of a blockage. If the water doesn’t recede, it’s time to call for professional help.
Overflowing Toilet: If water is spilling over the rim of the toilet, don’t attempt to fix it yourself. An overflowing toilet suggests a severe blockage that can lead to water damage and health hazards.
Gurgling Sounds: If your toilet makes gurgling noises after flushing, it could indicate trapped air caused by a clog in the pipes. This often signals a more serious problem that requires a plumber’s expertise.
Persistent Odors: Bad smells that linger around the toilet indicate waste is not moving through the pipes as it should. This could mean a blockage or issue with your sewer line.
Frequent Clogging: If your toilet clogs regularly, this suggests an underlying problem. Continuously using plungers or augers is not a long-term solution, and professional help is necessary to prevent further damage.
Why You Need a Professional
When dealing with persistent toilet blockages or plumbing issues, it’s essential to call in professionals. AJR Plumbing provides fast, reliable, and cost-effective plumbing services for everything from simple clogs to complex emergencies. With years of experience and specialised tools, our team will quickly identify and resolve your problem, ensuring your plumbing is working efficiently and preventing future issues from arising. Trust our experts to handle your blocked toilet with precision and care.
