Before you think about getting the plumber on speed dial, try these expert methods with bits you probably already have around the house and see if you can get the job done yourself
While we should never go tinkering with pipes and plumbing without some experience, there are some small jobs we can complete at home if an issue arises before turning to the professionals.
“Before tackling a blockage, it's wise to put on rubber gloves. Next, carefully place the flange plunger directly into the toilet bowl, ensuring it covers the drain completely to create a good seal. Push down slowly on the plunger, then pull it back up. Repeat this two or three times to help dislodge the clog. Finally, flush the toilet to see if the blockage has cleared,” says Nick.
However, Nick warns: “Be careful not to use boiling water for this method. The extreme heat could potentially cause your toilet bowl to crack.”It can be tempting to reach for harsh chemical drain cleaners when facing a blockage. However, these products can damage your pipes, leading to more problems in the future.
This allows the baking soda to be distributed more evenly within the toilet’s pipes. Next, add two cups of white vinegar to the toilet. Leave the solution to work its magic for 20 mins to half an hour, then give the toilet a good flush,” Nick advises.Enzyme products can be another handy option for tackling blockages.
“Stick the cloth-wrapped end of the hanger down the loo bowl and give it a gentle twist as you push it in, until you feel some resistance. Keep pushing until the resistance gives way and the water level starts to go down. Once the water’s draining freely, give the toilet a good flush to see if the blockage has cleared,” suggests Nick.It's not the most delightful task, but if you think a small object like a kid's toy might be the culprit, give it a go by hand first.
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