If you are dealing with a clogged toilet, chances are you’ve already tried to use the classic DIY method of fixing it – the trusty drain snake! But what do you do if that doesn’t work? Maybe those pesky clogs are just too stubborn and refuse to give way. Thankfully, there are alternative ways of unclogging a toilet without using a drain snake.
In this blog post on how to unclog a toilet when a snake won’t work, we will explore all the steps required to successfully remove even the toughest blockages – including how to do so safely! Read on for more information about how to quickly and easily unclog your plumbing in no time.
10 Step-by-step Guidelines on How to Unclog a Toilet When a Snake Won’t Work
Step 1: Begin by Shutting Off the Water Supply to the Toilet
Do this by turning the shut-off valve located below or behind the tank clockwise until it stops. It’s important to shut off the water supply before attempting any unclogging method as it will help prevent further damage. But don’t worry – the water will remain in the bowl. That means you will be able to use the toilet even when it is clogged.
If you cannot find the shut-off valve, turn off the main water supply valve instead. So long as you’re careful and use the right tools, this will cause no harm.
Step 2: Remove the Toilet Tank Lid and Place it Somewhere Safe
Once the water supply is shut off, carefully remove the toilet tank lid and place it on a flat surface where it won’t be damaged. It’s important to remember that the lid is heavy and should be treated with care. But don’t worry, you won’t need to work on the tank itself. It’s just important to keep the lid somewhere safe while you work. That way you won’t have to worry about it or the tank itself.
Step 3: Use a Plunger to Create Suction in the Toilet Bowl
Using a plunger, begin creating suction by making sure it is covering the entire opening of the toilet bowl. Make sure that you are pushing down on the handle with enough force so that there is some resistance when you pull up.
Do this several times, and then stand back and listen for any changes in sound. This should help dislodge whatever is blocking your drainpipe and make it easier to unclog your toilet without using a snake!
Step 4: Use Hot Water if Needed
If plumbing plungers just don’t cut it and you need an extra boost – try adding hot water into the toilet bowl. This will help to break down any built-up grime and debris that is blocking your drainpipe, making it easier to remove by hand. Make sure you wear protective gloves when doing this!
If the clog appears to still be stuck, it might help to add a few drops of dish soap. It is important to note that this should be done as a last resort.
Step 5: Use a Plumbing Auger
If hot water doesn’t work, then it’s time to bring out the big guns – a plumbing auger or “snake”. This device is designed for tougher clogs and can be inserted directly into the pipe through the opening at the bottom of your toilet bowl. Guide it up and down until you feel some resistance; this should help break up whatever is causing the blockage and unclog your toilet without using a snake!
Step 6: Try Baking Soda and Vinegar
Mix together 1/4 cup of baking soda with 1/4 cup of vinegar in a bowl, then pour it down the clogged drain. This will react with any built-up grime or debris inside the pipe and help to break it down and loosen it up. Give this solution about 10 minutes to do its job before proceeding to the next step.
Be sure to wear protective gloves when handling baking soda and vinegar! This is a great way of unclogging your toilet without using a snake.
Step 7: Use Plumbing Wrenches
If your toilet is still backed up after all these methods – don’t worry! You can try using plumbing wrenches to loosen and remove whatever is blocking your drainpipe. Be sure to wear protective gloves when doing this, as you don’t want to accidentally puncture the pipe.
It’s also important to be careful not to damage the porcelain as you work. So take your time and be gentle! But this should help you unclog your toilet without using a snake.
Step 8: Use a Long PVC Pipe
If all else fails – try inserting a long PVC pipe into the toilet bowl and pushing it down until you feel resistance. This should help break up anything blocking your drainpipe and allow it to flow freely again. It is important to wear protective gloves when doing this, as you don’t want to get any debris or grime on your skin. If you’re not comfortable with this method, it’s best to call a professional plumber instead.
Step 9: Contact A Plumber
And finally, if none of these methods work – it might be time to call in an expert! Professional plumbers have access to all kinds of tools that can easily unclog even the toughest drains, so contact one if you are still having issues with your plumbing system.
This is especially important if you are not sure what kind of blockage is causing the problem. On the other hand, if you are confident that you know what is clogging your toilet – then these steps should be able to help you unclog it without using a snake!
Step 10: Maintenance Tips
To avoid future clogs, it is important to practice regular maintenance on your plumbing system. Make sure to use drain stoppers or strainers in all of your drains and sinks, and don’t flush anything down the toilet other than human waste and toilet paper.
Additionally, be sure to check for any abnormalities in your pipes once a month (such as leaks or blockages). This will help keep your plumbing system running at peak performance.
Following these steps on how to unclog a toilet when a snake won’t work should help you easily unclog a toilet without using a snake. However, if you are still having issues with clogged drains – contact a local plumber right away! They can provide professional advice on how to best proceed in tackling this common problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What Should I Do if My Toilet is Still Clogged Even After Trying All of These Methods?
A: If none of the above methods have worked to unclog your toilet – it might be time to call in a professional. Plumbers have access to specialized tools that can easily tackle even the toughest clogs, so contact one right away!
Q: How Often Should I Check My Plumbing System for Abnormalities?
A: It is recommended to check for any abnormalities in your pipes once a month. This will help you stay ahead of any clogs or blockages and keep your plumbing system running at peak performance.
Q: Is it Safe to Use a Snake on My Toilet?
A: Yes, as long as you take all the necessary precautions such as wearing protective gloves, using eye protection and following the manufacturer’s instructions. However, if you are still having issues with your toilet, it is best to contact a professional plumber. They have access to all kinds of tools that can easily unclog even the toughest drains.
Q: How Can I Prevent Future Clogs?
A: To avoid any future clogs, make sure to use drain stoppers or strainers in all of your drains and sinks, and don’t flush anything down the toilet other than human waste and toilet paper. Additionally, practice regular maintenance on your plumbing system by checking for any abnormalities in your pipes once a month. This will help keep your plumbing system running at peak performance.
Conclusion
The task of unclogging a toilet can seem daunting, but it does not have to be so. After reading this article on how to unclog a toilet when a snake won’t work and with the right supplies, technique, and knowledge of how to use them, anyone can conquer a clog in their own plumbing.
Before attempting more serious measures — whether that’s a snake or a plunger – always check for any blockages at the sewer line cleanout and around the seal before plunging. If that doesn’t work, don’t despair.
There are plenty of tools out there that are designed to help you get the job done quickly and without stress. Knowing the ins-and-outs of unclogging a toilet with a snake may come in handy on those occasions when you need it most. Once you know which method works best for your particular situation, dealing with future clogs won’t be as bothersome any longer.
Always strive to prevent toilet clogs by using strainers/catchers in addition to only flushing human waste and toilet paper down your drain lines; this should save you plenty of headaches in the long run!
