A blocked toilet is one of the most frustrating plumbing problems a homeowner can face. It is difficult to clean up, but it can also be a nightmare when you have company. Depending on the cause, it can be tough to fix.
If you’re looking to diagnose what’s going wrong when you find your toilet and sink blocked, here are a few things to consider:
1. Low Water Pressure
If it comes down to your water pressure, you may be able to fix it yourself. If you’re experiencing low water pressure, the culprit can be several things:
- A clogged water filter
- A clogged main unit
- A clog in the line that comes out of the main unit
If your water pressure is lower than usual, look at the parts inside and outside your home. If you can’t find the problem, you can get help from a plumber.
2. Low-Flow Toilet
A low-use toilet is an effective, energy-saving product. A low-flow toilet could be a culprit when you find your toilet and sink blocked. However, a clogged toilet or a dirty toilet bowl can lower the effectiveness of a low-flow toilet.
To fix this problem, try cleaning the toilet and the bowl. If that doesn’t work, check the toilet flapper valve to ensure it isn’t stuck. If you find your toilet and sink blocked and nothing improves, you’ll need to call a plumber.
3. Blocked Plumbing Vent
If you find your toilet and sink blocked, it’s important to check your plumbing vent. A blocked plumbing vent can cause problems with the sink, water heater, and furnace.
If you notice that small animals are building a nest in your vent, you’ll have to clean it out. You’ll need to find the blockage and remove it to fix it. You may need to call a plumber since this can be a tricky fix.
4. Blocked Toilet Trap
The trap in your toilet is designed to collect water and prevent sewer gases from coming through your toilet. If the trap is blocked with debris, it can cause your toilet to back up when flushing. This can also cause the sink to back up. To fix the problem, you’ll need to clean the trap.
First, you must remove the tank from the bowl. Then, use an auger to clean out the pipes and the trap. Call a plumber immediately if your toilet and sink are still blocked.
5. Main Sewer Clog
If you find your toilet and sink blocked and they won’t flush, consider that your problem is a clog in your main sewer. If you live in an older home, this can be a recurring problem. This is where calling a plumber comes in handy.
If you suspect the main sewer is the problem, you can try using a high-pressure hose to dislodge the obstruction. This can help maintain your plumbing system longer. If you have to call a plumber, the fee is worth it.
Conclusion
If you find your toilet and sink blocked, don’t panic. You can try several things to fix the problem on your own. However, you’ll need to call a professional if you don’t find the problem. If you do have to call a plumber, don’t waste time. It’s better to find the issue and fix it quickly.
Sunny Coast Plumbing and Gas provides residential plumbing services in North Brisbane. Our professional plumbers provide repairs, maintenance, renovations, and new build services of gas fitting and hot water systems at competitive prices. We also offer emergency and after-hours service for all your plumbing needs! Call us at 0449 555 135 if you need emergency plumbing!
