A blocked toilet can turn into a major headache fast. Whether it’s a slow flush, an overflowing bowl, or standing water that won’t budge, this plumbing problem is common in many homes across Denver, Colorado.
If you’re dealing with this issue, don’t panic. In most cases, you can clear the clog yourself without calling for emergency help. But if you’ve tried and failed, it's time to bring in a plumber in denver Colorado to resolve it safely and efficiently.
In this blog, you’ll learn how to unblock a toilet at home, understand the common causes, and find out which Denver cities are frequently affected. Plus, we’ll touch on related plumbing issues like pressure and heater service, especially in older homes.
Why Toilets Get Blocked: Common Causes
Toilet blockages happen for several reasons—some obvious, others less so. Knowing what causes them can help you prevent future problems.
1. Too Much Toilet Paper
Using excess toilet paper is one of the most common causes. Especially in households with children or older plumbing systems.
2. Flushing Non-Flushables
Items like wet wipes, paper towels, diapers, and sanitary products don’t break down like toilet paper. These can clog pipes fast.
3. Low Water Pressure
If your home in Aurora or Thornton has low water pressure, your toilet may not have enough force to push waste through the pipes.
4. Tree Root Invasion
In areas like Lakewood and Commerce City, tree roots can crack underground sewer lines, causing recurring blockages.
5. Aging Plumbing
Old homes in Golden or Arvada often have outdated piping that is prone to clogs due to corrosion or build-up.
Which Cities in Denver Colorado Face Frequent Toilet Blockages?
Toilet clogs are a widespread issue, but they’re especially frequent in:
Aurora – Dense neighborhoods with older plumbing systems
Thornton – Newer homes with low-flow toilets often face flushing problems
Lakewood – Tree root invasion is a growing concern
Commerce City – High water usage puts strain on pipes
Arvada – Aging infrastructure and corrosion
Golden – Historical homes with fragile sewage lines
Englewood – Narrow pipes and hard water create frequent issues
These cities also face water heater troubles, so heater service is commonly paired with other plumbing maintenance.
Tools You’ll Need to Unblock a Toilet
Before jumping in, gather a few simple tools:
Toilet plunger (flange-style is best)
Rubber gloves
Toilet auger (plumbing snake)
Bucket of warm water
Dish soap or baking soda and vinegar
Step-by-Step: How to Unblock a Toilet at Home
Step 1: Stop the Water Flow
If the bowl is rising, remove the lid from the tank. Close the flapper valve to stop more water from entering the bowl.
Step 2: Use the Plunger
Position the flange plunger directly over the drain. Push down slowly, then pull up with force. Repeat 10–15 times. This suction motion can dislodge simple blockages.
Step 3: Pour Hot Water and Dish Soap
Boil a kettle or bucket of water (not too hot to avoid cracking porcelain). Pour in ½ cup of dish soap, then the water. Let it sit for 15–20 minutes. This can soften greasy clogs and paper buildup.
Step 4: Try a Toilet Auger
Still stuck? Use a toilet auger. Feed the cable into the drain and twist the handle. If you hit resistance, crank slowly to break through or pull out the clog.
Step 5: Baking Soda and Vinegar
Pour 1 cup of baking soda followed by 2 cups of vinegar into the bowl. Let it fizz and sit for 30 minutes. Finish with hot water. This combo helps disintegrate minor blockages and freshens the drain.
When to Call a Plumber in Denver Colorado
If you’ve tried all of the above and the toilet remains clogged or flushes slowly, it's time for expert help.
Signs you need professional service:
The water rises dangerously high or spills over
You suspect tree root invasion
Your home has consistent low-pressure plumbing
Foul sewage smells are present
Other drains in the house are slow or gurgling
A licensed plumber in Denver Colorado can inspect the blockage using a sewer camera, safely clear pipes, and even check your entire system—including your heater service setup.
Can a Water Heater Affect Toilet Performance?
You might not connect the two, but hot water from your heater plays a role in your home’s overall water pressure and flow. Poor heater service or buildup inside the heater can reduce water force, affecting how efficiently toilets flush.
Homes in Commerce City and Lakewood are known for hard water, which clogs heaters and pipes. Routine flushing of your water heater can improve system performance—including toilet flow.
Preventing Future Toilet Blockages
Avoiding the mess of a clogged toilet is possible with a few simple habits:
1. Flush Only Waste and Paper
Avoid flushing wipes, feminine hygiene products, and anything labeled “flushable”—these often aren't.
2. Use Less Paper
Encourage family members to be mindful of how much paper they use per flush.
3. Regular Pipe Inspections
Schedule yearly checks from a plumber in Denver Colorado to identify early signs of buildup or damage.
4. Check Water Pressure
Ensure your home maintains proper water pressure, especially if you’ve noticed weak flushing.
5. Maintain Your Heater
Book annual heater service to flush the tank and prevent sediment from impacting the entire plumbing system.
Final Thoughts
A blocked toilet can be one of the most frustrating plumbing issues to deal with—but it’s also one of the most fixable. With the right tools and techniques, you can unclog most toilets without professional help.
However, for persistent or complex clogs—especially in cities like Aurora, Lakewood, and Golden—don’t hesitate to reach out to a trusted plumber in Denver Colorado. Their expertise can prevent future problems and ensure your plumbing (and even your heater) works efficiently.
