How to Deal with a Choke Toilet Bowl: Tips and Solutions
A choke toilet bowl is one of the most common plumbing issues homeowners encounter. It can lead to a mess, frustration, and sometimes even damage if not addressed properly. Knowing how to deal with a clogged or choked toilet can save you time, money, and the stress of dealing with a plumbing emergency. In this article, we’ll explore effective methods to fix a choke toilet bowl and how to prevent the problem in the future.
What Causes a Choke Toilet Bowl?
Understanding the causes behind a choke toilet bowl can help you avoid the problem in the future. The most common reasons include:
1. Excessive Toilet Paper
Using too much toilet paper at once can lead to blockages. Toilet paper, while designed to dissolve in water, can clump together when used excessively, creating a blockage in the drainpipe.
2. Non-Flushable Items
Flushing non-flushable items, such as wipes, sanitary products, or cotton balls, can easily lead to a choke toilet bowl. These materials do not break down as toilet paper does and can cause a blockage in the pipes.
3. Foreign Objects
If small toys, jewelry, or other items accidentally fall into the toilet, they can block the pipes. Even a small object can create a significant obstruction, leading to a choke toilet bowl.
4. Aging Pipes
Over time, your toilet’s pipes may begin to wear down or corrode, leading to a reduced flow of water. This can result in frequent blockages or difficulty flushing.
How to Fix a Choke Toilet Bowl
Dealing with a choke toilet bowl doesn’t always require calling a plumber right away. There are several methods you can try before seeking professional help.
1. Use a Plunger
A plunger is one of the most common and effective tools for dealing with a clogged toilet. To use a plunger:
- Ensure you have a flange plunger (designed specifically for toilets).
- Place the plunger in the toilet bowl, covering the drain completely.
- Push down gently at first to expel any air, then plunge up and down forcefully for several seconds.
- After a few plunges, flush the toilet to check if the water drains properly.
If the water begins to drain, the clog has been cleared. If not, try plunging again.
2. Use a Toilet Auger
If plunging doesn’t work, a toilet auger is the next step. This tool is designed to break up or pull out the clog. Here’s how to use it:
- Insert the auger’s tip into the toilet bowl and feed the cable into the drain.
- Turn the handle of the auger clockwise to extend the cable into the pipes.
- Once the auger meets resistance, you’ve likely hit the blockage.
- Rotate the handle to break up the clog, then slowly pull the auger back out.
If the blockage is cleared, flush the toilet to ensure the water drains properly.
3. Hot Water and Dish Soap
For a mild clog caused by toilet paper, hot water and dish soap can be effective:
- Pour a generous amount of dish soap into the toilet bowl.
- Then, carefully pour hot (not boiling) water into the bowl.
- Let the mixture sit for about 15-20 minutes. The soap helps break down the clog, while the hot water helps to loosen it.
- After waiting, try flushing the toilet to see if the water drains.
4. Baking Soda and Vinegar
Baking soda and vinegar are natural alternatives to chemical drain cleaners and can be an effective solution for a choke toilet bowl. Here’s what to do:
- Pour about a cup of baking soda into the toilet bowl.
- Follow with about two cups of vinegar.
- Allow the mixture to sit for 30 minutes to an hour. The fizzing action helps break up blockages.
- After waiting, flush the toilet to see if the clog has cleared.
When to Call a Professional
If your attempts to clear the choke toilet bowl have failed or if the clog persists, it may be time to call a professional plumber. Here are some signs that you need expert help:
- Multiple toilets are clogged: This could indicate a more significant issue with the plumbing system, such as a main sewer line blockage.
- The toilet keeps clogging: If the problem is recurring, it could be due to issues with the plumbing pipes that need to be addressed by a professional.
- Persistent water backup: If the toilet doesn’t drain at all or water continues to rise, it could be a serious issue that needs to be inspected by a plumber.
Preventing Future Clogs
Preventing a choke toilet bowl in the future is key to avoiding recurring plumbing issues. Here are a few tips to keep your toilet functioning properly:
1. Use Toilet Paper Sparingly
Avoid excessive use of toilet paper, as this can easily clog the toilet. Consider using a bidet or flushing smaller amounts of paper at a time.
2. Avoid Flushing Non-Flushable Items
Only flush toilet paper and human waste. Items like wipes, cotton swabs, and sanitary products should never be flushed as they do not break down in water and can lead to blockages.
3. Regular Pipe Maintenance
Have your pipes inspected regularly to ensure there are no signs of wear or corrosion. Preventative maintenance can help catch issues before they become major problems.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
While many floor trap choke issues can be resolved at home, there are times when you need to call in a professional plumber. Consider contacting an expert if:
- The blockage is severe: If the blockage persists despite your efforts, it may require advanced tools and techniques that a plumber can provide.
- Water keeps backing up: If water is backing up into other parts of the house, such as the sink or shower, it could indicate a more significant plumbing issue that needs professional attention.
- You notice unpleasant odors: Foul odors coming from the drain or floor trap may indicate a buildup of bacteria, mold, or a deeper issue that needs to be addressed by a plumbing professional.
Conclusion
A choke toilet bowl can be a frustrating problem, but it’s usually something you can fix on your own with the right tools and techniques. From plunging to using natural remedies like baking soda and vinegar, there are several methods to clear a clog. However, if the problem persists, it’s always best to consult a professional plumber to avoid further damage to your plumbing system. By taking the right preventive measures, you can keep your toilet functioning smoothly and avoid frequent blockages in the future.