Dealing with a toilet that won’t flush can be frustrating and inconvenient. Whether you’re at home or in a public place. A toilet not flushing properly is a problem that needs immediate attention. Thankfully, it’s not always necessary to hire a plumber. There are several easy DIY fixes you can try first. Here, we’ll explore common reasons why your toilet won’t flush and provide step-by-step solutions to get it working again.
1. Check the Toilet Handle
Sometimes the reason your toilet won’t flush is as simple as a loose or broken toilet handle. The handle is connected to the flushing mechanism inside the tank, and if it’s not working properly, the toilet won’t flush.
Steps to Fix:
- Remove the Tank Lid: Carefully take off the tank lid and set it aside.
- Inspect the Handle: Check if the handle is loose or disconnected from the lift arm.
- Tighten or Reconnect: If the handle is loose, use a wrench to tighten the nut inside the tank. If the chain has come off, reconnect it to the lift arm.
- Test the Flush: Replace the tank lid and try flushing the toilet to see if it works.
2. Adjust the Flapper Chain
Another common reason for a toilet not flushing is an issue with the flapper chain. The flapper is a rubber valve that controls water flow from the tank to the bowl. If the chain is too loose or too tight, the flapper won’t open or close properly, causing the toilet not to flush.
Steps to Fix:
- Remove the Tank Lid: Take off the tank lid to access the flapper.
- Check the Chain Length: The chain should have a little slack but not so much that it can’t lift the flapper.
- Adjust the Chain: If the chain is too loose, shorten it by moving the hook to a different link. If it’s too tight, lengthen it slightly.
- Test the Flush: After adjusting the chain, replace the lid and flush the toilet to check if it’s working.
3. Unclog the Toilet
A common cause of a toilet not flushing is a clog. Clogs can happen when too much toilet paper or other materials block the drain. This can cause the water to back up and prevent a proper flush.
Steps to Fix:
- Use a Plunger: Place a plunger over the toilet drain and push down gently at first, then more vigorously to create suction. This should help dislodge the clog.
- Plunge Several Times: It may take several attempts to clear the clog, so be patient and keep trying.
- Test the Flush: Once the water starts to drain, try flushing the toilet to see if it’s clear.
If the plunger doesn’t work, you might need a toilet auger. This tool can reach deeper clogs that a plunger can’t.
Steps to Use a Toilet Auger:
- Insert the Auger: Push the end of the auger into the toilet drain.
- Turn the Handle: Crank the handle to extend the auger into the drain and break up the clog.
- Retrieve the Auger: Pull the auger out and flush the toilet to see if the clog is gone.
4. Fix the Water Level
If the water level in the toilet tank is too low, the toilet won’t flush with enough force to clear the bowl. The water level ought to be one inch or less below the overflow tube’s top.
Steps to Fix:
- Remove the Tank Lid: Take off the lid to access the water level.
- Check the Float: The float controls the water level in the tank. If it’s set too low, adjust it so the tank fills properly.
- Adjust the Float: If you have a ball float, bend the arm upwards to raise the water level. If you have a cylinder float, adjust the screw or clip that controls its height.
- Test the Flush: Replace the tank lid and flush the toilet to see if it’s working better.
Preventive Tips
To avoid future problems with a toilet won’t flush, consider these preventive tips:
- Use Less Toilet Paper: Excessive toilet paper can easily cause clogs.
- Avoid Flushing Non-Flushable Items: Items like wipes, sanitary products, and paper towels should never be flushed.
- Regular Maintenance: Periodically check the components inside your toilet tank to ensure everything is in good working order.
By following these easy DIY fixes, you can save time and money while keeping your toilet in good working condition. Remember, if your toilet not flushing issues persist, it might be time to call a professional plumber for help
