What To Do If Your Toilet's Blocked in Cumbria

Introduction

A blocked toilet can be a frustrating and embarrassing experience, especially if it happens unexpectedly. Its not something that anyone wants to deal with, but unfortunately, its a common problem that many homeowners in Cumbria face. In this article, well discuss the causes of a blocked toilet, how to deal with it, and why you should call Drainage Cumbria if youre unable to solve the problem on your own.

Causes of a Blocked Toilet

A blocked toilet can be caused by a variety of factors including:

1. Wrong Flushing Habits

Flushing things like baby wipes, dental floss, and feminine hygiene products down the toilet can easily cause a blockage. These items dont break down like toilet paper and can accumulate over time, leading to a potential blockage.

2. Low-Flow Toilets

Low-flow toilets are environmentally friendly, but they can also increase the risk of blockages. The reduced water flow means that theres less pressure to flush away waste, making it easier for debris to accumulate and stick to the toilet bowl.

3. Hard Water

Hard water contains high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium, which can build up in the toilets pipes, making it difficult for water to flow freely.

4. Faulty Plumbing

If the blocked toilet happens frequently, it could be a sign that the plumbing is incorrect or has been poorly installed.

How to Unblock a Toilet

If you find yourself with a blocked toilet, there are a number of things you can try before calling in the professionals:

1. Use a Plunger

A plunger is often the quickest and easiest way to unblock a toilet. Fill the toilet bowl with enough water to cover the rubber part of the plunger and then position it over the outlet. Push down and then pull up a few times to generate the suction needed to create a vacuum. This back-and-forth motion will help to loosen the blockage and push it through.

2. Use a Baking Soda and Vinegar Mixture

Mix one cup of baking soda with one cup of vinegar and pour the mixture into the toilet bowl. Allow it to sit for a few minutes, and then pour hot water into the bowl. The combination of vinegar and baking soda creates a chemical reaction that can help to break down any blockages.

3. Use an Auger

If the plunger and baking soda and vinegar mixture dont work, you can try using an auger. This is a special tool designed to clear blockages in toilets and drains. Insert the auger into the toilet bowl and then turn the handle to extend the wire coil. Pushing and pulling the auger will enable it to break up the blockage and draw it up into the bowl.

When to Call in the Professionals

If youve tried all of the above methods and are still unable to unblock your toilet, its time to call in the professionals. At Drainage Cumbria, we have a team of experienced plumbers who can diagnose and fix your blocked toilet quickly and efficiently. We offer a range of services including:

1. High-Pressure Water Jetting

High-pressure water jetting is an effective way to unblock a toilet as it uses high-pressure water to clear the blockage quickly and with minimal damage to the surrounding areas.

2. CCTV Drain Surveys

A CCTV drain survey involves inserting a camera into the toilets pipes to identify the cause and location of the blockage. This allows us to determine the best course of action to take to solve the problem.

3. Drain Lining

If the blockage is caused by a damaged or broken pipe, we can repair it using drain lining. This involves inserting a flexible lining into the pipe and inflating it to create a new, watertight surface.

Tips to Avoid Blockages

To avoid future blockages, here are some tips:

1. Be Careful What You Flush

Only flush toilet paper down the toilet. Everything else should go into the bin, including wipes, floss, and feminine hygiene products.

2. Dont Pour Cooking Oils or Fat Down the Sink

Cooking oils and fats can congeal in your pipes, making them sticky and can trap other debris, leading to clogs.

3. Get Regular Maintenance

Preventative maintenance can help to catch any blockages early on and can help to avoid more significant problems down the line.

Conclusion

A blocked toilet can be a daunting and unpleasant experience, but with the right tools and knowledge, you can solve the problem yourself. However, if youre unable to solve the issue or it keeps recurring, its best to call in the experts at Drainage Cumbria. With our team of experienced plumbers and state-of-the-art equipment, we can quickly diagnose and fix your blocked toilet, ensuring that your home is clean and sewage-free. Our phone number is 01228 734162, and we can be reached via email at [email protected]. Visit our website at drainagecumbria.uk to learn more.