A clogged toilet can be a real headache, but in most cases, it’s not a disaster. Yes, you might feel a slight sense of panic as the water in the bowl rises closer and closer to the rim, and it’s definitely an inconvenience to have your toilet out of commission. But of all the plumbing problems you could have, a clogged toilet is relatively benign. And the good news is that there are many emergency plumbers Ottawa who would be happy to come to your home and help you at a moment’s notice.
So, first of all, don’t panic. I’ll take you through a few techniques that may help you unclog your toilet on your own. And if none of these techniques work, you can call one of the many certified plumbers Ottawa has to offer.
But before you do anything, use a bowl or bucket to transfer some of that toilet water into the bathtub or sink. This will prevent the toilet from overflowing as you’re trying to fix it. Meanwhile, it’s also a good idea to shut off the incoming water.
Once that’s done, here are a few things you can do to fix your toilet on your own.
1. Use a plunger: When called to fix a toilet clog, most plumbers, Ottawa and elsewhere, try using a plunger first. And if a plunger is good enough for a plumber, it’s good enough for the average homeowner.
Plunging is simple: Just press the ring of the plunger around the opening at the bottom of the toilet. Press it in such a way that it creates a ring of suction around the hole. Then, gently push down on the handle of the plunger, and pull out with force. Do this repeatedly. Hopefully, this will be enough to dislodge the obstruction. If it works, the toilet should flush on its own, and you’ll hear that reassuring sound.
2. Drain cleaners: If you happen to have any chemical drain cleaners in your home, it can’t hurt to try them. According to most plumbers, Ottawa residents probably won’t get great results from using these products in the toilet. They’re primarily designed for sinks and tubs. However, they won’t do any damage, and they can in some cases clear toilet clogs.
Pour the substance into your toilet, and let it sit for a few minutes. As with plunging, if this technique works, the toilet will flush on its own, so don’t push that handle yourself, or you’ll risk causing the toilet to overflow.
3. Toilet auger: Toilet augers are ingenious devices that work in much the same way as a fishing pole. There’s a weighted hook at the end of a long, metal line attached to a winding handle. When you unwind the device, the weight uses gravity to work its way into your toilet’s plumbing. Ideally, it’s supposed to hit the obstruction, grab it, and allow you to pull it out. Toilet augers can be bought for cheap at any hardware store.
