A blocked toilet can be a major inconvenience and cause a lot of frustration, especially if it is badly blocked. Sometimes, a plunger or toilet auger may not be enough to clear the blockage. When this happens, using a drain liner can be an effective solution.
Using a drain liner to unblock a badly blocked toilet requires preparation and basic plumbing skills.
What Is A Drain Liner?
A drain liner is a flexible tube made of durable material, such as PVC or polyethene, designed to fit inside an existing sewer pipe and form a new pipe within the old one. It is coated with a resin that hardens and creates a seamless and durable pipe.
Here’s how to unblock a badly blocked toilet:
· Identify The Blockage
Before attempting to unblock the toilet, it is important to identify the location and severity of the blockage. This can be done by checking other fixtures in the house to see if they are also affected. If the blockage only affects the toilet, it is likely that it is in the toilet trap or the pipe leading to the main sewer line.
· Turn Off The Water Supply
Before beginning any plumbing project, shutting off the water supply for the bathroom is essential. This can be done by shutting off the valve in the toilet or closing off the main water supply to the home.
· Remove The Toilet
The toilet will need to be removed to insert the drain liner into the toilet pipe. This can be done by turning off the water supply, flushing the toilet to remove as much water as possible, and disconnecting the water supply line and the bolts holding the toilet to the floor.
· Prepare The Drain Liner
The drain liner should be measured and cut to the appropriate length for the toilet pipe. The liner should be slightly longer than the pipe to allow for overlap.
· Insert The Drain Liner
The drain liner should be inserted into the toilet pipe and pushed as far as possible using a rod or a snake. The liner should be carefully manoeuvred around any curves or bends in the pipe. Once the liner is in place, it should be inflated using an air compressor.
· Wait For The Resin To Harden
The resin coating on the drain liner will take some time to harden and cure. The curing time will depend on the type of resin used and the temperature and humidity conditions. Waiting for the resin to completely harden before removing the liner is important.
· Remove The Drain Liner
Once the resin has hardened, the drain liner can be deflated and removed. The new pipe will be formed inside the old one, effectively unblocking the toilet.
· Reinstall The Toilet
After the drain liner has been removed, the toilet can be reinstalled. The wax ring and bolts should be replaced if damaged or worn out. The water supply line should be reconnected, and the toilet should be secured to the floor.
