How to fix a toilet that won't flush but not clogged?

Author: Khalil Bosco  |  Last update: Thursday, June 5, 2025

There's usually a chain connecting the lever to the flapper, which could have become unhooked. That could explain why nothing happens when you press the lever. You can check by removing the toilet tank's lid and peeking inside. Reattach the chain to the flapper if it's unhooked and see if that fixes the issue.

What to do when a toilet won't flush but isn't clogged?

Try cleaning out the hole in the bottom of the toilet out with a wire coat hanger, run the coat hanger up the hole as far as you can and try to clear out any blockage in there. If that doesn't work use a closet auger and snake out the toilet.

How do I force my toilet to flush?

It is simply a matter of applying some downward force on the flush lever that is usually found on the side or front of the toilet. Once you apply the downward force, you can release the force and allow the water in the toilet bowl to flush down the drain.

How to unblock a toilet that won't flush?

Pouring hot water and washing up liquid into your toilet bowl is the easiest way to unblock a toilet. This method doesn't require any special tools and uses items that you'll probably already have at home.

Why would a toilet just stop flushing?

There are a few different reasons why your toilet might be resisting your attempts to flush. It could be a blockage, it could be a problem with the flushing mechanics, it could be a water supply problem or it could simply be a broken handle.

Toilet Not Clogged But Not Flushing Properly

Why is my toilet not flushing but filling with water?

If you've ever flushed your toilet only to have it fill up with water, you know how frustrating and inconvenient it can be. This problem can be caused by a variety of issues, including a clogged drain, a malfunctioning flapper valve, or a problem with the toilet's fill valve.

Will vinegar help a slow flushing toilet?

The vinegar dissolves the calcium (hard water build up) in the flush ring and the siphon jet, allowing the toilet to once again work as designed. Annual treatment could be necessary. Depending on the amount of hard water build up, repeated applications may be required.

What is the strongest thing to unclog a toilet?

One of the strongest substances for unclogging a toilet is a commercial drain cleaner specifically designed for toilet clogs. These cleaners typically contain powerful chemicals that dissolve organic matter and stubborn blockages.

When I flush my toilet, it fills up with water then slowly drains.?

Check your water levels

Low water levels in your tank are common causes of toilets filling up with water when flushed. They can also cause slow-draining toilets. You can manually top up your tank with water to help the flush. Then, check the flush tube for cracks and bends that lead to leaks.

Why is my toilet not unclogging after plunging?

You may just be using it incorrectly. Do this: Next time you have a clog, use your plunger like this: Ensure the flange lip is unfolded. Get a good seal on the toilet drain (that is, make sure you're covering the entire drain or you won't have enough pressure to loosen the clog.)

Why is my toilet not getting enough pressure to flush?

It is quite common for minerals such as calcium and lime, along with debris particles such as rust to build up in the rim feed and jet holes of the toilet bowl. Over time, these deposits restrict and block water from flowing into the toilet bowl which will cause a weak or incomplete flush.

How to unclog a toilet fast?

Pour about half a cup of baking soda into your clogged toilet and wait for a few minutes. Then, carefully pour in two cups of vinegar. The reaction between the base (baking soda) and the acid (vinegar) should be apparent very quickly.

Can I manually fill a toilet tank to flush?

Alternatively, you can remove the lid from your toilet tank and fill it with water until it reaches the overflow line. At this point, you'll be able to flush the toilet with the handle like normal. If you're unable to create a flush by pouring water into the bowl, this method may work better.

Can a toilet go bad and not flush?

Poor Flush (or the Dreaded No Flush)

What's going on: Low water levels, clogged siphon jet or ring holes, worn-out parts, or a clogged bowl or sewer lines could all prevent your toilet from flushing properly.

How much does it cost to unclog a toilet?

Costs Associated With Unclogging A Toilet

Toilet unclogging projects can range anywhere from $85-$600, depending upon the overall extent of the clog. Basic cleanouts will only cost around $80-$150, but serious clogs may require more sophisticated drain cleaning technology that increases the average costs to $150-$300.

Can you use Drano to unclog a toilet?

In a toilet, especially since Drano does not work quickly on toilet clogs, it creates a serious issue. The heat generated from this chemical reaction can crack the porcelain of the toilet or soften the PVC of the pipes. So, not only can Drano hurt you, but it can also hurt your toilet and cause costly damage.

Why is my toilet flushing slow but not clogged?

Check the water level:

This cause by far the most common reason for slow flushing toilets. If the water in the tank is not up to the recommended level, you may have poor flushing power.

Will a slow draining toilet fix itself?

Substances like toilet paper and fecal matter will eventually dissolve within the toilet drain and clear the clog organically. However, blockages made from insoluble materials won't resolve on their own and typically require you to fix the clog manually or contact a professional before they worsen.

What not to do when unclogging a toilet?

3 Ways NOT to Unclog Your Toilet (Unless You Want to Damage It)
  1. Using chemical drain cleaners (like Drano) Most chemical drain cleaners clear your drain by breaking down the clog with a chemical reaction. ...
  2. Plunging down too hard. ...
  3. Using the wrong plumber's snake.

What will dissolve paper towels in the toilet?

A lye-based drain cleaner, that's usually the most common kind. Many times straight chlorine bleach will work, but do not mix with anything else—-AT ALL!

Is it okay to leave a clogged toilet overnight?

Letting a clogged toilet sit too long can result in more severe problems. Beyond the risk of overflow and water damage, the clog could also cause toilet water to back up into other parts of your plumbing system, affecting sinks, showers, and even your home's main sewer line.

How to force a toilet to flush?

3 Ways to Manually Flush a Toilet
  1. Throw a Bucket of Water into the Toilet Bowl. One of the simplest ways to manually flush your toilet is pouring a bucket of water into the toilet bowl. ...
  2. Pour Water Into the Toilet Tank. ...
  3. Pull the Rubber Flapper in the Toilet Tank.

Why pour vinegar in toilet overnight?

You can use straight or a diluted vinegar cleaning solution for the bathroom to clean bacteria, especially around the toilet. Cleaning with a mixture of baking soda and vinegar in the bathroom can work really well. To clean your toilet with vinegar, pour a cup of vinegar in the toilet bowl and let sit overnight.

How to unclog a toilet when nothing works?

If plunging the toilet doesn't work, here are seven ways to fix a clogged toilet.
  1. Drain snake. If the plunger isn't working, your next best option is to use a drain snake. ...
  2. Boiling Water. ...
  3. Chemical Drain Cleaners. ...
  4. Baking Soda Mixture. ...
  5. Vinegar Mixture. ...
  6. Squirt Gun Drainer. ...
  7. Call a Plumber.

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