Unclogging a Toilet Without a Plunger
Few things are more frustrating than a clogged toilet. Typically, you just plunge a toilet to clear the clog. However, what do you do when there is no plunger nearby? Perhaps you are in a new home and have not yet bought a plunger.
Whatever the case may be, you need to know how to clear a toilet if you do not have access to a plunger. The following are some tried-and-true methods for unclogging a toilet without a plunger.
Use Near-Boiling Water
One way of unclogging a toilet is using extremely hot water that is not quite boiling yet. You do not want to use boiling water because the excessive heat can crack your toilet bowl, which could lead to an even bigger problem.
To unclog a toilet with hot water, simply fill a large bucket with very hot tap water. If your tap water does not get hot, you can heat a pot of water on the stovetop until just before the boiling point. Pour the water into the toilet bowl until the bowl is almost full, and allow the water to sit for as long as possible.
The hot water helps to break down any solid waste to a point where it can drain more easily. If your toilet bowl is already overflowing, you should allow the toilet to sit until the water gets low enough to add hot water.
Use Dish Soap
If the hot water method does not work, consider adding dish soap to your toilet bowl. Add about a cup of dish soap and allow the soap to sit for several minutes. Make sure to use a dish soap designed to break down grease.
The dish soap helps break down the solids while also lubricating the bowl and pipes. This helps the clog to more easily slip down the drain. After you finish, you may want to try the hot water method a second time. Allow the hot water to sit for half an hour, then try to flush again.
If it still refuses to drain, you can repeat the dish soap a second time. You may want to let the soap sit overnight to help encourage the clog.
Use Epsom Salt
If you have Epsom salt in your kitchen or utility room, you can use it to help clear a toilet clog. Epsom salt creates a reaction when it hits water, and the fizzing can help dissolve a clog.
Pour several cups of Epsom salt into the toilet bowl and allow the salt to sit for half an hour before you flush. You should notice a difference after the first flush. You can also combine the dish soap method with the Epsom salt for an even more powerful result.
Use a Wire Hanger
Although this method sounds crude, a wire hanger is a great way to unclog a toilet clog. If no other options have worked, this is your last DIY method to try before you call a plumber.
For this method, you should unfold a wire hanger, stick it down the bowl, and move it around to help dislodge a clog. While this method does not sound ideal, it is an effective way to get the job done.
Be sure to wear gloves if you use this method. Also, be careful not to scratch the porcelain of the toilet bowl.
If you still have problems with a clogged toilet and you have done all the DIY methods, you need to call in professional help. We at O'Fallon Sewer Service are here to help you with all your plumbing needs. Contact us today!
