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 dangerously. A clogged toilet can be a real inconvenience, especially if you are unsure how to fix it. The good news is, unclogging a toilet is a skill everyone can master. This guide from the plumbing professionals 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 common household challenge.

The Dependable Plunger Trick

The most tried and true method for unclogging a toilet is with 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 creates a better seal to build up the pressure required to dislodge the clog. Here’s how to use a plunger correctly:

1. Make sure there’s at least 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 mindful not to break the seal.

1. After several plunges, stop to see if the water starts going down. If not, keep plunging. But if so, lift out the plunger and flush to see if the clog is cleared.

How to Fix a Clogged Toilet Without a Plunger

While your residence should have at least one plunger, you may not have one handy at the moment. Here are some alternative methods to unclog a toilet without a plunger.

How to Use Hot Soap and Water to Unclog a Toilet

Hot water and soap is an incredibly effective alternative to a toilet plunger. This strategy works best for softer clogs that need a gentle push. Here’s what you should do:

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

1. Add a substantial portion of dish soap or liquid detergent into the bowl. The soap helps lubricate the clog, making it easier for it to slide through the pipes.

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

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

1. Try giving the toilet a flush. If the water drains down the pipe, you’ve effectively unclogged your toilet!

Use Baking Soda and Vinegar to Unclog a Toilet

Baking soda and vinegar is a dynamic formula. Here’s how to try this natural method for unclogging toilets:

1. 1Remove excess water from the bowl to prevent an overflow.

1. Pour about a cup of baking soda right into the toilet bowl, and then add two cups of white vinegar. The blend of baking soda and vinegar creates a fizzing action that breaks down the clog. Put in the vinegar slowly to reduce the chance of 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 smoothly, your problem is solved. If it doesn’t, try a different method or call a plumber for help.

Try Using a Coat Hanger to Unclog a Toilet

This approach is particularly effective for clogs caused by foreign objects or heavy materials. It calls for making a do-it-yourself drain auger with an old coat hanger. This is how you do it:

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

1. Wrap a tiny piece of cloth around the end of the hanger and attach it with duct tape to shield your toilet bowl from scratches.

1. Place the wrapped end into the toilet and carefully push it down the drain hole.

1. Push the hanger in different directions to displace the clog. Remember to be gentle to avoid damaging the porcelain or plumbing.

1. After a few minutes of careful prodding and poking, remove the hanger and attempt a flush. If the water drains normally, you’re right as rain. If the clog won’t go away, it may be time to call in the experts at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing.

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

While the methods detailed above work good for easy clogs, some scenarios call for professional help. If you’ve tried plunging or other methods without success, call Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for help. We know how aggravating a clogged toilet and other plumbing problems can be in a home or business. That’s why our highly trained plumbers provide fast, lasting solutions. Call us to take care of messy plumbing problems, and we’ll ensure your 100% satisfaction. To schedule our skilled plumbing services in the U.S. and nearby communities, call 866-397-3787 today!