A clogged one piece toilet can be a frustrating and messy situation to deal with. Whether it’s caused by flushing inappropriate materials or a build-up of waste and debris, a clogged toilet can result in water overflow and unpleasant odors. Fortunately, there are several methods you can use to effectively unclog a one piece toilet, including using a plunger, toilet auger, chemical drain cleaner, or wet/dry vacuum. In this guide, we’ll provide a general overview of the steps involved in unclogging a one piece toilet, along with some tips and precautions to ensure a successful and safe unclogging process.
How Do You Unclog a One Piece Toilet
Here are some steps to unclog a one piece toilet:
- Turn off the water supply. Locate the valve behind the toilet and turn it off to prevent the toilet from overflowing.
- Assess the situation. If you can see the clog in the toilet bowl, use a plunger to try and dislodge it. If you cannot see the clog, try using a toilet auger, also known as a snake, to break up the blockage.
- Use a plunger. Place the plunger over the drain opening in the toilet bowl, making sure that there is enough water in the bowl to cover the rubber part of the plunger. Push down and pull up on the plunger several times, creating suction and pressure to help dislodge the clog. If this doesn’t work, move on to the next step.
- Use a toilet auger. Insert the auger into the drain opening in the toilet bowl, pushing it gently until you feel resistance. Rotate the auger handle in a clockwise direction to break up the clog. Pull the auger out and dispose of any debris.
- Turn on the water supply. Turn on the water supply and allow the tank to fill. Flush the toilet several times to ensure that the clog has been fully cleared.
- Use a chemical drain cleaner. If the plunger and auger methods do not work, you can try using a chemical drain cleaner specifically designed for toilets. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and use caution, as these chemicals can be harmful to you and your toilet.
- Use a wet/dry vacuum. If you have access to a wet/dry vacuum, you can use it to suck out the clog from the toilet. Set the vacuum to “wet” mode and place the hose over the drain opening in the toilet bowl, making sure it has a good seal. Turn on the vacuum and allow it to suck out the clog. This method can be messy, so be sure to wear gloves and take care not to spill any water or debris.
If neither the plunger nor the toilet auger is effective in unclogging the toilet, it may be necessary to consult a professional plumber for further assistance.
Conclusion
Clogged one piece toilets can be a common household problem, but they can be resolved with the right tools and techniques. By using a plunger, toilet auger, chemical drain cleaner, or wet/dry vacuum, you can effectively clear a clog in your toilet and restore its proper function. It’s important to take precautions and follow safety measures to avoid damaging the toilet or putting yourself at risk of injury or exposure to harmful chemicals. If you’re unable to unclog the toilet using these methods, it’s recommended to seek the assistance of a professional plumber to ensure the problem is resolved correctly.
