FAQs Regarding a Clogged Toilet
Q: What are most clogs caused by?
A: The majority of clogs are caused by use of too much toilet paper. A good way to avoid clogs in the first place is to flush the toilet frequently when depositing toilet paper. Thicker and more absorbent brands of toilet paper are more likely to become stuck. Another common cause of clogs is flushing items that are not toilet-safe. Some of the worst culprits are paper towels.
Q: Does it matter what kind of plunger I get?
A: Before purchasing a plunger, take a good look at the toilet's design. Many toilets require a special type of plunger to fit the drainage hole. Plungers typically come in two varieties. They are easy to distinguish visually. One of is shaped like a dome, whereas the other is shaped like a manual pump. The latter has an accordion-like design.
Q: Should I use hot water or chemicals to clear a bad clog?
A: Boiling water can help to break up clogs. However, be extremely careful not to burn yourself when using it. Although using a plunger after filling the toilet with hot water can be very effective, it is easy for boiling water to splash and come into contact with you.
Commercial toilet clog clearing chemicals can work wonders. Some of the most effective start out as a liquid. They become a foam when added to the water. This foam expands through the pipes to break up the clog. Remember to never use a plunger after adding chemicals to the toilet. If the water splashes into your eyes, it could cause permanent blindness!
Q: Are there good ways to clear a toilet clog manually?
A: If you do not wish to spend the money on chemicals, you can use the old "coat hanger trick". Unwind a metal coat hanger and use it to pull the clog free from inside the bends in the drain pipe. If you don't mind getting your hands dirty, you can also reach into the drain pipe yourself and try to pull the clog loose that way. Be sure to wash up properly afterwards, however. Fischer Plumbing is able to remove stubborn clogs using an automatic pipe snake. This is the most effective method available.
Q: Besides using too much toilet paper, why do clogs occur?
A: Every toilet installation is a little different. The height at which the toilet is installed can have an effect on how well it drains. This is because the drainage system depends on gravity. In addition, your water pressure level can have an impact on how well the toilet drains. If possible, you might consider using an older "high flow" toilet. Modern toilets attempt to save water by using less than two liters of water per flush. This is not always effective. Check your local laws to see if it is legal for you to purchase and install a high-flow toilet.
In the event that these tips have not helped you to successfully unclog your toilet, you may wish to contact the toilet experts at Fischer Plumbing.
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