“My cousin got deployed, so I’m staying at his place while he’s away and taking care of things for him,” Daniel said. “Which is fine, great, whatever, but now the toilet won’t flush. It was fine when I got here, and then it started flushing slower and now it won’t flush at all. Back home, I’d know who to call for help. But where do I find a plumber in New York, NY?”
Toilet Trouble: Clogs, Failure to Flush & Other Plumbing Problems
If there’s ever a time you need a plumber in NYC, it’s when the toilet stops working. The most common type of toilet trouble is a clogged toilet. In these instances, something is blocking the drain pipe and preventing water and waste material from leaving the toilet. This can be due to accumulated debris, an improperly flushed object, or a compromise in the drain pipe itself. The clog-clearing solutions available online or in the home improvement store generally aren’t strong enough to deal with a truly stubborn clog. Your plumber will identify the cause of and resolve the clog so your toilet works properly.
But what should you do if a plunger alone doesn’t unclog the toilet? Here are some additional steps you can try before calling a professional:
- Use the Plunger Correctly:
- Place the plunger firmly over the drain.
- Secure it with your hand on the other side of the plunger head.
- Plunge up and down 10-15 times.
This may be sufficient to dislodge any debris causing the blockage.
- Try Boiling Water:
- Pour a potful of boiling water into the overflow pipe.
- Listen and watch for the water rushing down into the bowl below.
When done correctly, the boiling water can heat up whatever is blocking your pipes enough to melt it away or loosen it up.
- Follow-Up Actions:
- If the clog is still present, use the plunger again.
- Consider using a plumbing snake or another method to remove the obstruction.
Remember, while these DIY methods can be effective, they may not always resolve the issue, especially for more stubborn clogs. In such cases, it’s best to call a plumber who can identify and fix the problem, ensuring your toilet works properly.
