How to Unclog a Urinal

If you’ve ever had to clean a public restroom, you likely know how unfortunate a clogged urinal is. An influx of non-flushable materials or too many mineral deposits can lead to slow draining or a completely blocked pipe.

While regular maintenance is a good trick for keeping these problems at bay, you never know when you’ll face an issue. In these situations, acting fast is key to avoiding a dangerous backup. Knowing how to unclog a urinal can prevent plumbing emergencies in your facility.

Common Causes of a Clogged Urinal

A clogged urinal or blocked urinal usually doesn’t happen overnight. Here are the most common causes:

• Mineral buildup: Uric acid, calcium, and hard water deposits form “uric scale,” a hard substance that clogs pipes over time.
• Debris or foreign objects: Paper, gum, or other materials accidentally flushed can create blockages. 
• Bacterial growth and biofilm: Infrequently flushed urinals can develop layers of slime that restrict flow and trap debris. This is more common in urinals in a residential home than public or commercial urinals.

Signs That a Urinal is Clogged

Before a urinal overflows, you’ll usually notice a few red flags. These are the top signs of a slow-draining urinal:

• Water that pools or drains very slowly after flushing
• Gurgling sounds or bubbling from the drain
• Foul odors coming from the urinal or drain
• Water backing up into the bowl

Luckily, performing regular maintenance is a good way to prevent these early warning signs from becoming a full blockage.

How to Unclog a Urinal

Here are a few ways to unclog a urinal that’s acting up.

Step 1: Try a Simple Flush or Hot Water Method

A hot water flush is the quickest and safest first step for light clogs. Carefully pour a few gallons of hot water into the urinal and let it sit. Then flush to check drainage.

Step 2: Use a Plunger or Drain Snake

If water alone doesn’t work, use a urinal plunger to create pressure and dislodge debris. For deeper clogs, insert a manual drain snake or auger into the drain and gently rotate to break through the blockage.

Step 3: Chemical Drain Cleaners & Urinal Treatments

The next step is a urinal treatment. Use an enzyme-based cleaner or a cleaner labeled safe for urinals and follow all instructions carefully. These can dissolve uric scale, biofilm, and mineral buildup.

Step 4: Calling a Professional Plumber

If the clog remains after a few attempts, it’s time to call in the pros. Professional plumbers use high-pressure water jets, camera inspections, and commercial-grade treatments to clear urinal clogs quickly and safely.

Preventative Maintenance for Urinals

The best way to avoid clogged urinals is to stay ahead of buildup. Here are a few effective tips:

• Flush regularly to keep pipes clear.
• Clean daily with disinfectants and scale removers to prevent buildup.
• Install urinal screens to catch debris before it enters the drain.
• Use enzymatic cleaners on a monthly basis to break down uric acid deposits.

Urinal problems can’t wait — especially in busy commercial spaces. Whether it’s a minor clog or a full-scale backup, Roto-Rooter is ready to help. Our team has the tools and expertise to keep your restroom plumbing flowing smoothly.

Contact Roto-Rooter today and let the pros take care of that clogged urinal.