How To Unclog A Slow Draining Toilet

Barker’s: Here For Your Uncooperative Commode

Few household inconveniences can match the frustration of a slow-draining toilet. It’s a scenario that demands immediate attention and a DIY remedy. As you stand there, anxiously watching the water take its time to disappear, it’s better to use that time coming up with plumbing remedies.

At Barker’s Heating & Cooling, we’ll unravel the mysteries of slow-draining toilet clogs and equip you with the knowledge and skills to resolve the issue. Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a novice plumber, there are practical tips that can be utilized today!

Why Is My Toilet Draining Slowly?

The most obvious reason for your toilet’s slow drainage is the presence of a pipe blockage. Many reasons lead to clogs and a slow-draining toilet, which can include:

• Low water level
• Mineral build-up
• Using too much toilet paper
• Flushing items not meant to be flushed
• Broken or damaged plumbing

Some reasons why your toilet clogs or drains slowly are more complex than others. In summary, the most likely reason for a slow-draining toilet is that something is blocking the pipe that removes waste and prevents water from escaping the bowl smoothly.

Unclogging A Slow Toilet

The best way to approach unclogging a slow-draining toilet is to treat it like any other clogged toilet issue. A toilet that flushes but drains slowly still needs to be addressed immediately. Leaving it alone can only make the problem worse over time. Here are a few tips to help you unclog your toilet.

Plunge Like A Pro

When faced with a clogged commode, first try clearing your toilet using a plunger! Ensure you have the right plunger — a flange plunger, not the smaller cup plunger meant for sinks. Equip yourself with rubber gloves, lay a towel around the toilet’s edge to contain any mess, adjust the water level in the tank if needed, place the plunger cup over the drain, create a tight seal and plunge with force for 10-15 seconds. Check the water level and repeat if necessary.

Heat Up Some Water

When a plunger is not at hand, adjusting the water temperature can sometimes do the trick. Heat water just below boiling on the stove, let it cool for a moment to avoid porcelain cracks, pour carefully into the toilet bowl and wait several minutes. If the water drains, test with a flush.

Dish Soap Magic

Gentle on porcelain and effective against grease, dish soap can be a surprising ally. Measure one-half cup of dish soap, pour it into the toilet bowl with enough water to carry it down, let it sit for 10 minutes and assess the water level. If lowered, test with a flush.

Create Water Pressure

No plunger on hand? Unclogging without a plunger is possible using a two-liter soda bottle. Fill the bottle with warm water, insert it quickly into the toilet drain and squeeze water with force into the pipe. If water drains, you’re ready to flush.

Vinegar And Baking Soda Duo

This dynamic duo can break down clogs. Pour one cup of white vinegar down the drain, follow with one cup of baking soda, let it sit for a minute and pour warm water to check for a clear drain.

Toilet Auger Mastery

For stubborn clogs, a toilet auger is invaluable. Wear gloves, insert the auger into the pipe, turn the handle to extend the arm and break up the blockage, slowly remove the auger and flush to check water clearance.

Plumbing In College Station Texas

Conquering the inconvenience of a slow-draining toilet is not just a plumbing task. It’s a skill that requires the right tools and techniques. Armed with these strategies, you can bid farewell to the frustration of a sluggish toilet and welcome back the smooth functionality of your bathroom.

If you find yourself still stuck with a slow-draining toilet after trying out these techniques, Barker’s Heating & Cooling has got your back! We’ve got the skills needed to get your toilet working as good as new, so contact us today to schedule your next appointment!