Toilet Won’t Flush? Four Easy Ways to Fix It
We’ve all been there—you flush the toilet, and instead of everything going down the drain as it ought to, the water level starts rising instead. A clogged toilet can be a real hassle, especially if you don’t know how to tackle it. Fortunately, unclogging a toilet is a skill anybody can learn. This guide from the plumbing authorities at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing will walk you through a few effective methods to unclog a toilet that won’t flush, helping you feel prepared the next time you face this frequent household difficulty.
The Trusty Plunger Technique
The most time-tested strategy for unclogging a toilet is using a plunger. But not just any plunger will do. It’s crucial to use a flange plunger that is specifically made for toilet bowls. The rubber flange on the cup produces a better seal to build up the pressure required to free the clog. Here’s how to use a plunger properly:
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- Make sure there’s a little water in the bowl. If not, add water from the sink using a cup.
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- Insert the plunger at an angle to ensure the flange goes into the hole at the bottom of the bowl.
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- Raise the plunger up and down several times, being mindful not to break the seal.
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- After a number of plunges, wait a few seconds and watch to see if the water starts draining from the bowl. If not, keep plunging. But if the bowl is draining, remove the plunger and flush to see if the clog is gone.
Don’t Have a Plunger? Other Ways to Remove a Clog
While every home should have at least one plunger, you may not have one handy at the moment. Here are a few alternative approaches to unclog a toilet if you don’t have a plunger.
Remove a Toilet Clog with Hot Soap and Water
Hot water and soap is an incredibly effective stand-in for a toilet plunger. This approach works well for softer clogs that need a just a little push. Here’s what you need to do:
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- Transfer some water from the toilet bowl if it’s quite full. Scoop the dirty water out of the bowl with an old cup and discard it in the tub or shower drain.
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- Pour a generous portion of dish soap or liquid detergent into the bowl. The soap helps lubricate the clog, making it easier for it to push down the pipes.
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- Slowly pour a bucket of hot (not boiling) water from waist height in the bowl. The force of the water coupled with the slippery soap should eliminate the clog.
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- Let the soap and hot water sit for around 20 minutes, giving it time to work its magic.
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- Try flushing. If the water level goes down, you’ve properly unclogged your toilet!
The Baking Soda and Vinegar Method
Baking soda and vinegar is a potent combination. Here’s how to try this natural tool for unclogging toilets:
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- 1Take out excess water from the bowl to prevent an overflow.
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- Pour about a cup of baking soda straight into the toilet bowl, followed by two cups of white vinegar. The combination of baking soda and vinegar generates a fizzing action that breaks down the clog. Add the vinegar slowly to reduce the chance of overflow from the fizzing reaction.
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- Let the baking soda and vinegar mix sit in the bowl for at least 20 minutes.
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- After waiting, flush the toilet. If the water flows smoothly, your problem is solved. If it doesn’t, try a different method or call a plumber for help.
How to Unclog Your Toilet with a Coat Hanger
This method is especially effective for clogs caused by foreign objects or heavy materials. It involves making a homemade drain auger with an old coat hanger. This is how you do it:
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- Unwind a wire coat hanger until it’s mostly straight.
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- Wrap a tiny piece of cloth around the end of the hanger and secure it with duct tape to guard your toilet bowl from scratches.
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- Insert the wrapped end into the toilet and gently push it down the drain hole.
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- Move the hanger in various directions to dislodge the clog. Keep in mind you need to be gentle to avoid harming the porcelain or plumbing.
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- After a few minutes of careful prodding and poking, remove the hanger and try flushing the toilet. If the water drains normally, you’re all set. If the problem won’t go away, it may be time to call in the experts at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing.
Trust Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for Your Plumbing Needs in the U.S.
While the methods detailed above work for simple clogs, some situations call for professional support. If you’ve tried plunging or other tactics without success, reach out to Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for help. We know how inconvenient a clogged toilet and other plumbing problems can be in a home or business. That’s why our highly trained plumbers provide speedy, durable solutions. Leave the dirty work to us, and we’ll ensure your 100% satisfaction. To schedule our expert plumbing services in the U.S. and nearby towns, call 866-397-3787 today!