5 Immediate Next Steps to Take When Your Toilet Won’t Unclog

January 12, 2021January 14, 2021 Tom Clark toilet won't unclog

On the list of top 10 inconveniences, a clogged toilet makes the list. If you only have access to one bathroom, it becomes a huge issue. You need to unclog the toilet and do it quickly.

But what happens when a toilet won’t unclog? You’ve tried everything the how-to plumbing sites have recommended. Now what?

The reality is, toilets become clogged for a variety of reasons. The number one reason is something in the toilet trap is stuck. In most cases, it’s something that should have never been placed in the toilet.

Regardless of the reason, it might come down to hiring a plumber. Keep reading for five things to do when you can’t unclog a toilet.

1. Close the Toilet Flapper When the Toilet Won’t Unclog

Plunging is the first step to unclogging a toilet. When that fails, it’s time to try some other hacks.

As you decide how to deal with a toilet that won’t unclog the water may continue to fill in the tank. Chances are water is still flowing out slowly preventing the tank from overfilling.

To remedy this, lift the lid off the toilet tank and close the flapper. This will stop the flow of water into the tank.

2. Turn off the Water

As you search for local plumbers to call, turn the water off and let everyone know the toilet is clogged. If you don’t know how to turn off the water to a toilet, it’s quite simple.

Look behind the toilet, near the baseboard. You should see a shut-off valve. Turn the knob to stop the water flow.

Clean-up any water that has spilled over onto the floor. Place protective coverings around the toilet base before moving to your next step.

3. Try Hot Water and Dish Detergent

Hot water and dish detergent is a great combo when a toilet is stopped up. Use hot tap water and boil the water. Pour a cup full of dish detergent into the toilet bowl. Wait a few minutes and then pour in the hot water.

This should loosen whatever is blocking the passageway. If it doesn’t work the first time, give it a second or third try.

4. Use an Auger

An auger, also known as a plumbers snake, is a plumbing tool used to unblock toilets. The hook or blade at the end can breakdown a blockage. It can also be used to retrieve items like sanitary napkins and disposable wipes.

5. Call a Plumber

As a last result, you can call a plumber to unclog the toilet. If the clog has moved beyond the toilet, the plumber has the tools to find the clog and get it out of the sewer line.