Tips to Fix a Clogged Toilet that Won’t Flush

We’ve all been there—you flush the toilet, and instead of everything whirling down the drain as it should, the water level starts rising dangerously. A clogged toilet can be a real problem, especially if you don’t know how to fix it. Fortunately, unclogging a toilet is a skill anybody 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 Reliable Plunger Method

The most common method for unclogging a toilet is employing a plunger. But you shouldn’t use just any type of plunger. It’s crucial to use a flange plunger that is expressly made for toilet bowls. The rubber flange on the cup forms a better seal to build up the pressure needed to displace the clog. Here’s how to use a plunger properly:

1. Be sure there’s some water in the bowl. If there isn’t, add water from the sink using a cup.
2. Position the plunger at an angle to be sure the flange goes into the hole at the bottom of the bowl.
3. Pump the plunger up and down several times, being mindful not to disrupt the seal.
4. After a number of plunges, stop to see if the water starts draining from the bowl. If not, keep plunging. But if the bowl is draining, lift out the plunger and flush to see if the clog is eliminated.

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

While every home should have at least one plunger, you may not be able to find one when you need it. Here are a few alternative approaches to unclog a toilet with no plunger.

Remove a Toilet Clog with Hot Soap and Water

Hot water and soap is a surprisingly good substitute for a toilet plunger. This approach works best for softer clogs that need a just a little push. Here’s what you should do:

1. Transfer some water from the toilet bowl if it’s really full. Scoop the plumbing water out of the bowl with an old cup and pour it in the tub or shower drain.
2. Pour a large portion of dish soap or liquid detergent into the bowl. The soap helps lubricate the clog, making it easier for it to move down the pipes.
3. Cautiously pour a bucket of hot (not boiling) water from waist height in the bowl. The force of the water blended with the slippery soap should displace the clog.
4. Let the soap and hot water sit for around 20 minutes, giving it time to work its magic.
5. Try to flush the toilet. If the water level goes down, you’ve effectively unclogged your toilet!

Unclog Your Toilet with Baking Soda and Vinegar

Baking soda and vinegar is a powerful concoction. Here’s how to attempt this environment-friendly method for unclogging toilets:

1. 1Remove excess water from the bowl to prevent an overflow.
2. 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 produces a fizzing action that breaks down the clog. Pour the vinegar slowly to decrease the odds of an overflow from the fizzing reaction. 
3. Let the concoction sit in the bowl for at least 20 minutes.
4. After waiting, give the toilet a flush. If the water flows easily, your problem is fixed. If not, try one of the other methods or call a plumber for help.

Try Using a Coat Hanger to Unclog a Toilet

This method is especially effective for clogs caused by foreign objects or compact materials. It calls for making a do-it-yourself drain auger from an old coat hanger. This is how you do it:

1. Unwind a wire coat hanger until it’s relatively straight.
2. Wrap a small cloth around the end of the hanger and attach it with duct tape to shield your toilet bowl from scratches.
3. Place the wrapped end into the toilet and gently push it in the drain hole.
4. Move the hanger in different directions to free the clog. Keep in mind you need to be gentle to avoid damaging the porcelain or plumbing.
5. After a few minutes of careful prodding and poking, remove the hanger and attempt a flush. If the water drains away, you’re all set. If the clog won’t go away, it may be time to call in the professionals at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing.

Trust Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for Your Plumbing Needs in Canada

While the methods detailed above are effective for easy clogs, some circumstances call for professional support. If you’ve tried plunging or other techniques without success, reach out to Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for help. We understand 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, long-lasting solutions. Leave the dirty work to us, and we’ll ensure your 100% satisfaction. To schedule our expert plumbing services in Canada and neighboring areas, call 866-397-3787 today!