Toilet Won’t Flush? Four Easy Ways to Fix It

We’ve all been there—you flush the toilet, and instead of everything swirling down the drain as it ought to, the water level starts rising ominously. A clogged toilet can be a real inconvenience, especially if you don’t know how to unclog it. The good news is, unclogging a toilet is a skill anybody can perform. This guide from the plumbing authorities at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing will walk you through a few reliable methods to unclog a toilet that won’t flush, helping you feel prepared the next time you face this frequent household task.

The Reliable Plunger Trick

The most tried and true means for unclogging a toilet is using a plunger. But not just any plunger will do. It’s essential to use a flange plunger that is specifically fashioned for toilet bowls. The rubber flange on the cup creates a better seal to build up the pressure needed to dislodge the clog. Here’s how to use a plunger correctly:

1. Ensure there’s some water in the bowl. If not, add water from the sink using a cup.

1. Place the plunger at an angle to make certain the flange goes into the hole at the bottom of the bowl.

1. Push the plunger up and down several times, being careful not to lose the seal.

1. After a number of plunges, wait a few seconds and watch to see if the water level is receding. If not, resume plunging. But if the water recedes, lift out the plunger and flush to see if the clog is cleared.

Don’t Have a Plunger? Other Ways to Remove a Clog

While your residence should have at least one plunger, you may not be able to find one when you need it. Here are some alternative ways to unclog a toilet with no plunger.

Remove a Toilet Clog with Hot Soap and Water

Hot water and soap is an incredibly good substitute for a toilet plunger. This method works best for softer clogs that need a light push. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Remove some water from the toilet bowl if it’s extremely full. Scoop the plumbing water out of the bowl with an old cup and discard it in a nearby tub or shower drain.

1. Add a large amount 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.

1. Cautiously pour a bucket of hot (not boiling) water from waist height inside the bowl. The force of the water coupled with the slippery soap should eliminate the clog.

1. Let the mixture sit for around 20 minutes, giving it time to work its magic.

1. Try giving the toilet a flush. If the water level goes down, you’ve properly unclogged your toilet!

Unclog Your Toilet with Baking Soda and Vinegar

Baking soda and vinegar is a potent formula. Here’s how to use this eco-friendly method for unclogging toilets:

1. 1Transfer unwanted water from the bowl to protect against an overflow.

1. Pour about a cup of baking soda directly into the toilet bowl, followed by two cups of white vinegar. The blend of baking soda and vinegar produces a fizzing action that breaks down the clog. Add the vinegar slowly to minimize overflow from the fizzing reaction.

1. Let the concoction sit in the bowl for at least 20 minutes.

1. After waiting, give the toilet a flush. If the water flows easily, your problem is gone. If that’s not the case, try a different method or call a plumber for help.

How to Unclog Your Toilet with a Coat Hanger

This approach is especially effective for clogs caused by foreign objects or compact materials. It consists of making a homemade drain auger from an old coat hanger. This is how you do it:

1. Unwind a wire coat hanger until it’s mostly straight.

1. 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.

1. Put the wrapped end into the toilet and with great care push it into the drain hole.

1. Move the hanger in various directions to dislodge the clog. Don’t forget to be gentle to avoid harming the porcelain or plumbing.

1. After a few minutes of careful prodding and poking, put away the hanger and try flushing the toilet. If the water drains like it is supposed to, you’re all set. If the problem persists, it may be time to call in the pros at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing.

Count on Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for Your Plumbing Needs in the U.S.

While the techniques detailed above work good for straightforward clogs, some scenarios call for professional help. If you’ve tried plunging or other methods without success, contact the pros at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for help. We know how frustrating a clogged toilet and other plumbing problems can be in a home or business. That’s why our highly trained plumbers provide swift, lasting solutions. Leave the dirty work to us, and we’ll ensure your 100% satisfaction. To schedule our skilled plumbing services in the U.S. and neighboring areas, call 866-397-3787 today!