In the case that a toilet must be removed, whether for replacement or repair, there is a good chance that it will need to be drained first. Although draining a toilet may sound like an easy and straight-forward project, without the right knowledge, you can quickly have a disaster on your hands. Furthermore, you could potentially injure yourself or damage your plumbing. For these reasons, it is recommended to use a licensed plumber for all your toilet repairs and maintenance needs. They have the proper knowledge, tools, and resources to provide professional service you can trust.

However, if you are committed to your DIY toilet project, continue reading to learn a few effective methods for draining a toilet properly. And in the case that you change your mind, you’ll find information on who to call for prompt service at an affordable price!

Materials You May Need:

Plunger
Siphoning Hose
Bucket
Cup or Bowl
Large Sponge
Wet/Dry Vacuum

You may use one or a combination of the above-mentioned materials. Together, they can all effectively drain water from a toilet bowl. Just be sure to wear rubber gloves for protection!

Choose the Method that Works for You:

Method 1 – Plunge the Water

You can use a plunger in the standard up-and-down motion to relieve a toilet bowl of its water. The plunging motion pushes the water back down into the pipe, and within 2 to 3 tries, your toilet bowl should be empty.

Method 2 – Siphon the Water

Although a bit technical, siphoning the water is another effective method to draining a toilet. Visit your local home improvement store to purchase a siphoning hose, or simply cut an old hose down to size. Put the other end of the hose in the bathtub to drain. If the tub is too far, use a large bucket.

Method 3 – Scoop the Water

Although not a first-choice, you can choose to scoop the water out of the toilet basin with a small cup or bowl. Dump the eliminated water into the tub or a large bucket. Once you get to the very last bit of water, use a smaller container to remove it, such as a toothpaste cap.

Method 4 – Sponge the Water

You can, if you choose, use a large, absorbent sponge to remove the water from the toilet. This does take more time, but it can be equally effective as all the other methods. Simply dip the sponge, absorb all the water it will take, and then ring it out in the bathtub or large bucket. Repeat until you are done!

Method 5 – Vacuum the Water

The quickest and most effective method for draining a toilet is to use a wet/dry vacuum to suck all the water out. Just be sure you know how to utilize a wet/dry vacuum properly, and don’t purchase one just for the job unless you are sure you will use it again in the future. They are not cheap appliances!

Indianapolis Toilet Repair and Replacement

Call Weilhammer Plumbing Company at 317-784-1870 for all your Indianapolis toilet repair and replacement needs. Owner Mark Weilhammer provides residential and commercial plumbing service, as well as, master plumber services. He is a state-licensed master plumber who can deliver safe and effective plumbing repair at an affordable price. Call 317-784-1870 to request a free estimate, today.