How To Unclog A Toilet From The Tank: A Simple And Effective Guide!
What To Know
- The overflow tube is a small tube that runs from the top of the tank to the bottom.
- To plunge the toilet, simply place the plunger over the hole in the bottom of the bowl and push down.
- Unclogging a toilet from the tank can be a simple task, but it’s important to follow the steps carefully.
A clogged toilet can be a major inconvenience, but it doesn’t have to be a major disaster. In many cases, you can unclog a toilet from the tank yourself, without having to call a plumber. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
1. Gather Your Tools
Before you start, you’ll need to gather a few tools:
- A bucket
- A plunger
- A toilet snake
- A pair of gloves (optional)
2. Turn Off the Water Supply
The first step is to turn off the water supply to the toilet. This will prevent the tank from refilling while you’re working. To turn off the water supply, simply locate the valve behind the toilet and turn it clockwise.
3. Flush the Toilet
Once the water supply is turned off, flush the toilet. This will empty the bowl and make it easier to work on.
4. Remove the Tank Lid
Next, remove the lid from the toilet tank. The lid is usually held in place by two or three bolts. Once the bolts are removed, the lid will come off easily.
5. Inspect the Flapper
Once the tank lid is removed, you’ll be able to see the flapper. The flapper is a rubber seal that covers the hole at the bottom of the tank. When the toilet is flushed, the flapper lifts up, allowing water to flow into the bowl.
If the flapper is damaged or worn, it can prevent the toilet from flushing properly. To inspect the flapper, simply lift it up and look for any tears or holes. If the flapper is damaged, you’ll need to replace it.
6. Clean the Overflow Tube
The overflow tube is a small tube that runs from the top of the tank to the bottom. The overflow tube prevents the tank from overflowing when the toilet is flushed.
Over time, the overflow tube can become clogged with mineral deposits or other debris. If the overflow tube is clogged, it can prevent the toilet from flushing properly. To clean the overflow tube, simply use a small brush or a wire to clear out any debris.
7. Check the Fill Valve
The fill valve is a device that controls the water level in the tank. When the water level drops below a certain point, the fill valve opens, allowing water to flow into the tank.
If the fill valve is not working properly, it can prevent the toilet from flushing properly. To check the fill valve, simply look for any leaks or cracks. If the fill valve is leaking or cracked, you’ll need to replace it.
8. Plunge the Toilet
Once you’ve checked the flapper, the overflow tube, and the fill valve, it’s time to plunge the toilet. To plunge the toilet, simply place the plunger over the hole in the bottom of the bowl and push down. Repeat this process several times until the clog is cleared.
9. Use a Toilet Snake
If plunging the toilet doesn‘t work, you can try using a toilet snake. A toilet snake is a long, flexible wire that can be inserted into the drain to clear clogs.
To use a toilet snake, simply insert the snake into the drain and turn the handle. The snake will work its way through the drain, clearing any clogs in its path.
10. Call a Plumber
If you’ve tried all of the above methods and you’re still unable to unclog the toilet, it’s time to call a plumber. A plumber will have the tools and experience to clear even the most stubborn clogs.
In a nutshell
Unclogging a toilet from the tank can be a simple task, but it’s important to follow the steps carefully. By following the steps in this guide, you can save yourself the time and expense of calling a plumber.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: What are the most common causes of a clogged toilet?
A: The most common causes of a clogged toilet are:
- Flushing too much toilet paper at once
- Flushing non-flushable items, such as diapers or wipes
- Mineral deposits or other debris in the drain
- A damaged or worn flapper
Q: How can I prevent my toilet from getting clogged?
A: There are a few things you can do to prevent your toilet from getting clogged:
- Flush only toilet paper down the toilet
- Don’t flush non-flushable items, such as diapers or wipes
- Clean the overflow tube regularly
- Check the flapper and fill valve for leaks or cracks
Q: What should I do if I can’t unclog the toilet myself?
A: If you’ve tried all of the above methods and you’re still unable to unclog the toilet, it’s time to call a plumber. A plumber will have the tools and experience to clear even the most stubborn clogs.
