How to Repair a Blocked Toilet
A blocked toilet is frustrating, but you can most likely fix the problem yourself. Depending on the cause of the clog, you will need different tools. Clearing a toilet paper clog is simple, but the process get more complicated if a solid object, such as a toy or toothbrush, has been flushed and is caught in the toilet's inner waterway.
If you unclog the toilet but it clogs again whenever toilet paper is flushed, then a solid object is causing the problem. The toilet paper catches on the item, causing the blockage.
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Things You'll Need
- Plunger, also called a plumber's helper
- Hand-cranked auger, also called a pipe snake
- Expandable bladder
- Garden hose
- Bolt grabber
- Bent coat hanger
- Fish-hook remover
- Old towel
Instructions
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Use a plunger, also called a plumber's helper, to force air into the toilet's inner waterway, dislodging the blockage. Place the plunger over the toilet's opening, making sure that the edge is covered in water. If there is not enough water in the toilet bowl to cover the edges of the plunger, pour additional water in the bowl. Push down on the plunger, forcing air into the pipes. Repeat as needed.
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Try a pipe snake, also called a hand-cranked auger. Insert the auger end into the toilet bowl, pushing it so that it follows the waterway inside the toilet. There are several bends in the waterway. Turn the auger's handle to aid the insertion. If you feel a blockage, turn the handle until the auger breaks it up.
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An expandable bladder and hose will seal off the opening and force a high-pressure stream of water into the pipes, dislodging the blockage. Attach the expandable bladder to a garden hose, or other hose attached to the sink. Insert the bladder halfway into the toilet bowl opening and turn on the water. The bladder will expand as water flows through it into the toilet's waterway.
Some water may back up around the bladder, so be alert for overflows. -
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If the toilet is still clogged, then you can be sure that the blockage is a solid item. Try to grab onto the object with a bolt grabber (available at automotive stores) or a bent coat hanger.
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Try to reach the item from the other end of the toilet. Drain the toilet tank and bowl, unhook the water line, pull out the toilet and carefully tip it on its side. If you see the obstruction, you should be able to grab it with a fish-hook remover. If you cannot see the object, try a bolt grabber, which has a longer reach.
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Carefully take the toilet outside. Insert the hand-cranked auger into the bottom of the toilet up to the bowl. If possible, insert a water hose into the bowl and turn on the water while you use the auger.
If the toilet remains clogged, you will have to replace it.
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Tips & Warnings
When placing a toilet on its side, put a towel underneath it to protect it from being scratched by the floor.
Be careful when moving your toilet so that you don't break it.
Do not use an electric auger because it will be too powerful for the job and may damage your toilet.
