Clogged toilets are more than just annoying—they can feel like a total nightmare! We’ve all been there: you go to use the bathroom, flush the toilet, and instead of the water going down, it starts rising! Yikes!
Naturally, you want to fix this issue as quickly as possible. But let’s be real—putting it off can lead to even bigger problems that might affect not just your bathroom but your whole house. So, let’s dive into why Five Star Columbus Plumbing thinks it’s super important to tackle a clogged toilet right away, plus some handy tips on how to fix it, with or without a plunger!
What Horrors Can Happen When You Leave a Toilet Clogged?
- Overflow and Water Damage: One of the biggest risks of a clogged toilet is that dreaded overflow. When toilet water spills over, it can really mess up your bathroom—think water damage to the floor, subflooring, and even the ceiling below if you’re in a multi-story home. Basically, the longer that water sits, the worse and more expensive the damage gets.
- Plumbing System Backups: Here’s something many people overlook: a clogged toilet isn’t just a problem for that one spot. The clog can cause water to back up into other parts of your plumbing, which means your sinks, showers, and even the main sewer line could all be affected. The result? You could end up with multiple fixtures out of commission, turning your home into a plumbing nightmare.
- Health Hazards: We know this sounds obvious, but when toilet water spills onto your floor, it’s definitely not exactly hygienic. That stagnant water from a clogged toilet can quickly become a breeding ground for bacteria and mold. Plus, when toilet water splashes out over the bowl, it creates an even bigger mess. Unpleasant odors are just the beginning of the problems that come with untreated clogs. So, trust us, a clogged toilet is something you definitely want to fix ASAP!
How Can You Unclog a Clogged Toilet?
If you’re dealing with a clogged toilet while calling a professional is usually the best move, here are some quick steps you can try to manage the situation yourself:
- Grab a Plunger: This is your go-to tool! Everyone should have one handy in the bathroom. To fix that clog, here’s what you do:
- Hold the plunger with both hands and place the suction cup over the drain hole in the toilet bowl.
- Make sure you’ve got a good seal all around. It should be flush against the bowl.
- Start plunging steadily, pulling the cup back without breaking the seal. This should help dislodge the clog.
- Keep repeating this sequence until you see the water start to drain.
- Hot Water and Dish Soap: Another trick is to pour some dish soap into the bowl, followed by hot (but not boiling) water. The soap can help break down the clog. Here’s how:
- Heat up a gallon of water on the stove—remember, hot but not boiling, we don’t want to crack the porcelain!
- While waiting for the water, squirt some dish soap into the toilet bowl.
- Once the water’s hot, slowly pour it into the bowl.
- Let the dish soap and hot water sit for about 5 minutes before flushing. This gives it time to work its magic.
- Use an Auger or Plumbing Snake: If the clog is stubborn, plumbing auger or plumbing snake can help reach deeper into the pipes. You can find one at any home improvement store. Just insert it into the drain and twist to break up or pull out the clog.
- Call a Pro: If you’ve tried everything and the toilet is still clogged, it might be time to call in a professional plumber, like the folks at Five Star Columbus Plumbing. They have the right tools and know-how to fix the issue quickly without causing more damage.
Remember, a clogged toilet can go from a minor hassle to a major problem pretty fast. So, act quickly to tackle it before it affects other areas of your home! And don’t forget, our professional plumbing services are always just a call away to keep your plumbing in top shape. Don’t wait until it becomes a bigger headache!
Call Five Star Columbus Plumbing today at (614) 401-8086, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here! We will swifty and effectively tackle any plumbing scare that dares head your way!
