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 ominously. A clogged toilet can be a real inconvenience, especially if you don’t know how to fix it. Fortunately, unclogging a toilet is a skill everyone can master. This guide from the plumbing authorities at Winnipeg Supply Service Experts will walk you through a few effective methods to unclog a toilet that won’t flush, helping you feel prepared the next time you face this frequent household difficulty.

The Dependable Plunger Method

The most time-tested means for unclogging a toilet is using a plunger. But don’t just reach for the first plunger you see in the aisle at the store. It’s important to use a flange plunger that is expressly made for toilet bowls. The rubber flange on the cup produces a better seal to build up the pressure needed to dislodge the clog. Here’s how to use a plunger properly:

1. Ensure there’s a little water in the bowl. If not, add water from the sink using a cup.
2. Insert the plunger at an angle to ensure the flange goes into the hole at the bottom of the bowl.
3. Raise the plunger up and down several times, being cautious not to lose the seal.
4. After multiple plunges, pause to see if the water level is receding. If not, resume plunging. But if so, take out the plunger and flush to see if the clog is eliminated.

How to Fix a Clogged Toilet Without a Plunger

While all homes should have at least one plunger, you may not have gotten around to making this purchase yet after moving to a new place. Here are a couple of alternative ways to unclog a toilet if you don’t have a plunger.

Remove a Toilet Clog with Hot Soap and Water

Hot water and soap is an incredibly good stand-in for a toilet plunger. This method works well for softer clogs that need a light push. Here’s what you should do:

1. Take out some water from the toilet bowl if it’s very full. Scoop the dirty water out of the bowl with an old cup and pour it in your tub or shower drain.
2. Squeeze out a generous portion of dish soap or liquid detergent into the bowl. The soap helps lubricate the clog, making it easier for it to push through the pipes.
3. Slowly pour a bucket of hot (not boiling) water from waist height in the bowl. The force of the water combined with the slippery soap should remove the clog.
4. Let the combination marinate for roughly 20 minutes, giving it time to work its magic.
5. Try to flush the toilet. If the water drains down the pipe, you’ve successfully unclogged your toilet!

Unclog Your Toilet with Baking Soda and Vinegar

Baking soda and vinegar is a potent concoction. Here’s how to use this natural method for unclogging toilets:

1. 1Transfer excess water from the bowl to prevent an overflow.
2. Pour about a cup of baking soda directly into the toilet bowl, and then add two cups of white vinegar. The combo of baking soda and vinegar produces a fizzing action that breaks down the clog. Put in the vinegar slowly to decrease the odds of an overflow from the fizzing reaction. 
3. Let the mixture sit in the bowl for at least 20 minutes.
4. After waiting, try flushing the toilet. If the water flows effortlessly, your problem is solved. If it doesn’t, try one of the other methods or call a plumber for help.

How to Unclog Your Toilet with a Coat Hanger

This method is very effective for clogs caused by foreign objects or heavy materials. It involves making a homemade drain auger from an old coat hanger. Here’s a step-by-step tutorial:

1. Unwind a wire coat hanger until it’s mostly straight.
2. Wrap a tiny piece of cloth around the end of the hanger and then wrap it with duct tape to protect your toilet bowl from scratches.
3. Put the wrapped end into the toilet and with great care push it down the drain hole.
4. Maneuver the hanger in many directions to free the clog. Don’t forget to be gentle to avoid harming the porcelain or plumbing.
5. After a few minutes of careful prodding and poking, put away the hanger and give the toilet a flush. If the water drains like it is supposed to, you’re good as gold. If the issue lingers, it may be time to call in the professionals at Winnipeg Supply Service Experts.

Contact Winnipeg Supply Service Experts for Your Plumbing Needs in Winnipeg

While the techniques detailed above work good for easy clogs, some circumstances call for professional assistance. If you’ve tried plunging or other techniques without success, call Winnipeg Supply Service Experts for help. We realize how frustrating a clogged toilet and other plumbing problems can be in a home or business. That’s why our seasoned plumbers provide swift, long-lasting solutions. Leave the dirty work to us, and we’ll ensure your 100% satisfaction. To schedule our expert plumbing services in Winnipeg and neighboring towns, call 204-800-0613 today!