Cleaning a Toilet With Sulfuric Acid

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Things You'll Need

  • Plunger

  • Sulfuric acid

  • Measuring cup

  • Safety gloves

  • Safety goggles

You can clean out a blockage in your toilet drain with sulfuric acid.

A properly working toilet is a necessity in modern households. Toilets can gunk up or develop clogs for numerous reasons, resulting in a lack of function or even a nasty overflow of water. Cleaning out a toilet drain with a chemical substance, such as sulfuric acid, can often unclog the blockage and restore function to your toilet. However, you'll need to proceed with caution, as sulfuric acid is an extremely toxic substance.

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Step 1

Use a plunger to attempt to clean out the toilet blockage first. Position the plunger over the drain opening, or hole located at the bottom of the toilet. Push down on the handle and lift it repeatedly to force water and air through the toilet. The pressure may dislodge the blockage and clean out the toilet drain.

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Step 2

Pour the sulfuric acid into the toilet. Check the product label for specific directions as to the proper amount and application of the sulfuric acid.

Step 3

Allow the sulfuric acid to set for 30 minutes. The acid should start to eat away at the clog, helping to dislodge it from the walls of the drain.

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Step 4

Flush the toilet. If the toilet flushes, the toilet drain has been cleaned of the clog. If the toilet fails to flush, plunge it again with the plunger. The pressure from the plunging motion may dislodge what's left of the clog.

Step 5

Repeat Steps 1 through 4 if the toilet fails to flush properly. If the toilet still does not flush, contact a licensed plumber to service the toilet.

Tip

Ventilate the room by opening any windows and doors to promote airflow. Sulfuric acid is caustic, and excessive inhalation of the fumes can pose a health hazard.

Warning

Always wear safety gloves and safety goggles when working with a harsh chemical substance to avoid chemical burns or other injury.

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