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 is supposed to, the water level starts rising ominously. A clogged toilet can be a real headache, especially if you are unsure how to unclog it. Fortunately, unclogging a toilet is a skill everyone can master. This guide from the plumbing professionals at Rob's Albertan 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 ordinary household difficulty.

The Reliable Plunger Trick

The most time-tested method 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 specially made for toilet bowls. The rubber flange on the cup produces a better seal to build up the pressure necessary to displace the clog. Here’s how to use a plunger properly:

1. Make sure there’s at least 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 ensure the flange goes into the hole at the bottom of the bowl.
3. Raise the plunger up and down several times, being careful not to disrupt the seal.
4. After a number of plunges, stop to see if the water starts going down. If not, resume plunging. But if the bowl is draining, lift out the plunger and flush to see if the clog is cleared.

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

While every home 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 some alternative approaches to unclog a toilet without a plunger.

How to Use Hot Soap and Water to Unclog a Toilet

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

1. Transfer some water from the toilet bowl if it’s very full. Scoop the toilet water out of the bowl with an old cup and pour it in a nearby tub or shower drain.
2. Pour a generous volume of dish soap or liquid detergent into the bowl. The soap helps lubricate the clog, making it easier for it to slide down the pipes.
3. Cautiously pour a bucket of hot (not boiling) water from waist height in the bowl. The force of the water together with the slippery soap should dislodge the clog.
4. Let the combination sit in the bowl 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 properly unclogged your toilet!

The Baking Soda and Vinegar Method

Baking soda and vinegar is a potent mixture. Here’s how to use this environment-friendly strategy for unclogging toilets:

1. 1Take out 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 combination of baking soda and vinegar produces a fizzing action that breaks down the clog. Pour the vinegar slowly to minimize overflow from the fizzing reaction. 
3. Let the baking soda and vinegar mix sit in the bowl for at least 20 minutes.
4. After waiting, give the toilet a flush. If the water flows effortlessly, your problem is gone. If that’s not the case, try one of the other methods or call a plumber for help.

Try Using a Coat Hanger to Unclog a Toilet

This strategy is particularly effective for clogs caused by foreign objects or compact materials. It involves making a homemade 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 little bit of cloth around the end of the hanger and then wrap it with duct tape to shield your toilet bowl from scratches.
3. Put the wrapped end into the toilet and with great care push it in the drain hole.
4. Move the hanger in various directions to dislodge the clog. Don’t forget to be gentle to avoid damaging the porcelain or plumbing.
5. After a few minutes of careful prodding and poking, put away the hanger and attempt a flush. If the water drains normally, you’re right as rain. If the issue won’t go away, it may be time to call in the experts at Rob's Albertan Service Experts.

Trust Rob's Albertan Service Experts for Your Plumbing Needs in Edmonton

While the methods detailed above are effective for easy clogs, some scenarios call for professional help. If you’ve tried plunging or other methods without success, reach out to Rob's Albertan Service Experts for help. We know how frustrating a clogged toilet and other plumbing problems can be in a home or business. That’s why our seasoned plumbers provide swift, lasting solutions. Call us to take care of messy plumbing problems, and we’ll ensure your 100% satisfaction. To schedule our skilled plumbing services in Edmonton and nearby communities, call 780-800-9047 today!