Although plunging is the usual technique for clogged toilets, you may be wondering what to do if you find yourself with a clog on your hands and no plunger in the house. Fortunately, our plumbers in Laguna Niguel have some helpful tips you can try to eliminate the problem until you can visit the hardware store. The following are some ways to unclog a toilet without a plunger:
Stop the Water Flow
Before implementing any of the tips outlined below, you must stop the water flow to the toilet. This is easily accomplished by removing the lid and pulling up the float. After you have done this, turn the water off completely by using the shut off valve, which is typically located at the base of the toilet.
Slowly Pour Hot Water Into the Bowl
A few cups at a time, pour hot water into the toilet bowl to coax clogs to dissipate. When using this method, however, our plumbers in Laguna Niguel caution that the water should only be hot, rather than boiling, as boiling water may cause damage. If the toilet bowl is approaching its capacity, you should first find a cup, bucket or other device to lower the water level to avoid the risk of an overflow. After this is accomplished, fill a cup with very hot water and slowly pour it into the bowl. Wait a few minutes and repeat this action and the water should eventually help to eliminate the clog.
Add Shampoo or Dish Soap to the Hot Water
Adding a surfactant, such as dish soap, shampoo, or even small pieces of bar soap to the hot water can enhance its ability to break up the clog. First, remove as much water as possible from the toilet bowl, then add a generous amount of soap or dish detergent. Next, pour in the hot water in the manner described above. This combination usually helps lubricate the pipes and the clog itself so that the water can once again move freely.
Remove the Clog Manually With a Wire Hanger
Similar to the way a plumber Laguna Niguel “snakes” a toilet, you can physically remove a clog by bending a wire hanger into the appropriate shape and pushing it through the clog to break it up and get it moving. You may wish to follow up this step with the use of a toilet brush. Use the brush to “plunge” the toilet with a few forceful pumps, similar to the way you would use a traditional plunger. If the other remedies had a positive effect, this may be all the pressure you need to completely break up the clog and move it through the pipes.
Once the clog is eliminated and water is draining freely, turn the valve back on and flush the toilet. If soaps or shampoos were used, flush it a few more times to remove any remaining residue. Do not forget to invest in a plunger or two so that you are prepared if you face a clog in the future. Finally, do not hesitate to contact one of our expert plumbers in Laguna Niguel for a regular service call to ensure your entire plumbing system is in good working order.