Plumbing and maintenance
Blocked toilets: what to try and when to stop
The practical points
- 1
A WC plunger or a WC auger clears most local blockages within the trap and the first section of branch.
- 2
If other fittings gurgle or back up at the same time, the blockage is in the shared drain and needs different equipment.
Before you commit
A WC plunger or a WC auger clears most local blockages within the trap and the first section of branch.
Your questions answered
Should I keep flushing?
No, each flush adds volume with nowhere to go.
What causes repeat blockages?
Wipes, excess paper, or a branch with insufficient fall that never fully clears.
Second opinion on blocked toilets
If you already have a quote or a design and something does not sit right, it is worth another set of eyes before work starts.