Few things are as frustrating — or urgent — as a toilet that won’t flush.
Depending on the “business” you just transacted, the toilet may be unusable until the problem is solved. Let’s hope your house has a second or third commode (and not the kind you use on camping trips)!
Fortunately, the solution is often simpler than you might suspect and doesn’t always involve calling your plumber.
This guide will discuss the most common causes of flushing issues and provide step-by-step instructions for fixing them.
By the end, you’ll be the top flusher on the block, which is something you can post on your Facebook page.
Why Won’t My Toilet Flush?
A toilet may stop flushing for several reasons, including:
- Clogs in the drain, which prevent water flow.
- Issues with the handle or chain inside the tank.
- Insufficient water levels in your toilet tank or bowl.
- A faulty or damaged flapper that doesn’t seal properly.
- A blocked or malfunctioning overflow tube.
- Problems with your home’s sewer line or plumbing system.
Fixing a Toilet That Won’t Flush
1. Check for a Clog
Clogs are the top culprit behind flushing problems. To confirm a clog:
- Observe whether the water levels rise unusually high after flushing the toilet.
- Look for slow drainage from the bowl.
How to Fix
- Use a toilet plunger. Place the plunger over the drain hole, creating a seal, and push down firmly several times to dislodge the clog.
- For tougher clogs, use a toilet auger (sometimes called a drain snake). Insert the auger into the drain and twist until the blockage breaks up.
2. Inspect the Toilet Handle & Chain
The flushing handle connects to a chain inside the tank that lifts the flapper. If the chain is broken, disconnected, or too loose, the toilet won’t flush.
How to Fix
- Remove the tank lid and examine the chain. Reattach it to the flushing lever if it has come loose.
- If the chain is too long, shorten it by adjusting the link, so the flapper lifts easily when the handle is pressed.
3. Check the Water Level in the Tank
Insufficient water in the toilet tank means insufficient pressure to flush properly.
How to Fix
- Open the lid and check the water level. It should sit roughly one inch below the top of the overflow tube.
- Adjust the float valve (a small plastic or metal mechanism) to raise the water level. Turn the adjustment screw or bend the arm-like part gently upward as needed.
4. Replace or Adjust the Flapper
The flapper is a rubber component at the bottom of the tank that controls water release. If it’s worn out or doesn’t seal properly, it could be the reason your toilet doesn’t flush thoroughly.
How to Fix
- Turn off the water supply to the toilet.
- Remove the old flapper and replace it with a new one (available at most hardware stores).
- Ensure the new flapper creates a tight seal to prevent water leakage.
5. Unclog the Overflow Tube
The overflow tube regulates water levels inside the tank by diverting excess water back to the drain. If this tube is clogged, it can affect flushing.
How to Fix
- Flush the toilet while observing the overflow tube. It may be partially blocked if water isn’t flowing as it should.
- Clean the tube with a long, flexible brush or auger to remove debris.
6. Check for Plumbing Issues Beyond the Toilet
If you’ve tried all the above fixes and your toilet still won’t flush, the problem might extend beyond the toilet — potentially into your sewer line or plumbing system.
How to Fix
- Check other drains at home. Are your sinks or bathtubs draining normally? Issues across multiple drains indicate trouble in the main sewer line.
- Call a professional plumber if this is the case. Sewer line repairs require specialized tools and expertise.
Tips for Preventing Toilet Flushing Problems
Regular maintenance can save you from future flushing headaches:
- Don’t flush anything other than human waste and toilet paper. Avoid flushing items like wipes, tissues, or feminine hygiene products.
- Inspect the internal components of your toilet tank yearly to ensure everything is in working order.
- Use drain cleaners sparingly to prevent clogs in your pipes.
- If your toilet clogs frequently, it may be time to invest in a high-pressure flushing system.
FAQs: Toilets That Won’t Flush
Q: What should I do if my toilet won’t unclog with a plunger?
Try a toilet auger — plungers are often ineffective for tougher clogs. If the auger doesn’t work, you may need professional help.
Q: Why is water leaking from my toilet base?
A leaking base often indicates a worn-out wax ring under the toilet. To stop the leak, you’ll need to replace the ring.
Q: Why does my toilet keep running but not flush?
A misaligned or worn flapper could cause this. Adjust or replace it to ensure it seals properly.
Q: How much does it cost to fix a toilet that won’t flush?
DIY fixes are minimal in cost — $10–$20 for replacement parts like a flapper. Depending on the issue, professional plumbing services can cost $100 or more.
Q: Can I use chemical drain cleaners to fix a clogged toilet?
Bad idea! They can damage pipes or the toilet itself. Stick to safer options like plungers or augers.
Q: Why does my toilet flush weakly?
Weak flushing could indicate low water pressure, mineral buildup, or partial clogs in the toilet trap or plumbing. Increasing the tank’s water level should help.
Q: How can I tell if my sewer line is blocked?
Signs of a blocked sewer line include slow drainage across multiple fixtures, foul odors, or gurgling sounds when other drains are used.
Q: Should I replace my toilet if it consistently won’t flush?
Frequent issues may warrant a replacement, particularly if the toilet is old or inefficient. Newer models offer better flushing power and water efficiency.
