How to Fix a Toilet That won’t Flush With 5 Easy Steps

When it comes to plumbing, nothing can be more frustrating than a toilet that won’t flush. After all, you can’t use your toilet for anything when it doesn’t function properly. The good news is that you can easily fix the most common toilet issues without the help of a plumber. This article will guide you through how to fix a toilet that won’t flush and what can cause the issue in the first place.

To start with, there can be a few different issues with your toilet, and depending on the severity of the issue, they can be more difficult to solve than others. For minor problems, you should first identify the source of the problem. Most of the time it could be an airlock in the line that connects your toilet to the drain, or there could be a problem with the water line.

For these more difficult issues, you should seek the help of a professional plumber. Additionally, there are some common issues such as a blocked or broken flapper, a dirty wax ring, or a leaking seal, that you should be able to address on your own. By properly inspecting the toilet and checking the plumbing components, you will be able to identify and repair any of the common toilet issues. With this guide, you should be able to troubleshoot and solve the most common toilet issues on your own, saving you time and money.

To fix a toilet that won’t flush, follow these steps:

  1. Check if the handle is loose: If the handle is loose, tighten the set screw on the handle. If the screw is stripped, replace the handle.
  2. Check the chain: If the chain is too long or too short, it can prevent the flapper valve from opening fully, causing a weak flush. Adjust the chain so it has about 1/2 inch of slack.
  3. Check the flapper valve: If the flapper valve is worn or broken, replace it.
  4. Check the fill valve: If the fill valve is not working properly, it can prevent the tank from filling up after a flush, causing the toilet to not flush properly. Replace the fill valve if necessary.
  5. Check for clogs: If there is a clog in the toilet, use a plunger to try and remove it. If the clog cannot be removed with a plunger, use a toilet auger to reach deeper into the drain.

If these steps do not fix the problem, it may be necessary to call a professional plumber.

Tools And Materials You`ll Need

Here are some common tools and materials you may need to fix a toilet that won’t flush:

  • Adjustable wrench
  • Plunger
  • Toilet auger
  • Screwdriver
  • Replacement handle
  • Replacement flapper valve
  • Replacement fill valve
  • New chain (if necessary)


Note: The specific tools and materials you’ll need may vary depending on the cause of the problem and the type of toilet you have. It’s best to consult the manufacturer’s instructions or a professional plumber if you are unsure.

How to fix a toilet flushing mechanism?

To fix a toilet flushing mechanism, you need to turn off the water supply to the toilet, flush the toilet to empty the tank, and remove the tank lid to inspect the flushing mechanism. Check the handle and arm to make sure they are securely attached and functioning properly. Check the chain connecting the handle to the flapper valve and make sure it is not kinked or tangled. If the flapper valve is clogged, dirty, or damaged, clean or replace it.

Check the fill valve and make sure it is functioning properly and not clogged. Clean or replace it if necessary. Check the flush valve and make sure it is not clogged. Clean it if necessary. Reassemble the tank and turn the water supply back on. Test the flushing mechanism to make sure it is working properly.

If none of these steps resolve the issue, it might be best to call a plumber for professional assistance. The exact tools and materials you will need will depend on the specific problem with your toilet’s flushing mechanism and the type of toilet you have. You may need an adjustable wrench, pliers, screwdriver, bucket, replacement flapper valve, replacement fill valve, and Teflon tape.

When to call the professional

It is advisable to call a professional plumber if:

  • You are unsure about your plumbing skills or lack experience fixing toilets.
  • The problem persists even after trying the troubleshooting steps.
  • There is water damage or leaks in the bathroom or surrounding areas.
  • The toilet is frequently clogged.
  • The toilet is constantly running.
  • Notice any cracks in the toilet bowl or tank
  • You suspect there may be a problem with the sewer line.

In these cases, a professional plumber can quickly diagnose the issue, determine the necessary repairs, and ensure that the problem is fixed correctly and safely.

What is the most common issue of the toilet won’t flush?

The most common issue that causes a toilet to not flush properly is a clogged toilet. This can occur when excessive amounts of toilet paper, foreign objects, or waste build up in the pipes, preventing water from flowing freely through the drain.

Worn Flapper Valve: Another common issue is a worn or damaged flapper valve. The flapper valve is responsible for allowing water to flow from the tank into the bowl, creating a flush. Over time, the flapper valve can become worn or brittle, causing it to leak or not function properly.

Broken Handle: The handle that activates the flushing mechanism can also become worn or broken. If the handle is loose or damaged, it may not activate the flapper valve properly, causing a weak or incomplete flush. Additionally, if the chain connecting the handle to the flapper valve is too short or too long, it can also prevent the valve from functioning properly.

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Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs):

What should I do if my toilet won’t flush?

Check the handle, the flapper valve, and the fill valve. If the issue persists, try using a plunger or toilet auger to remove any clogs. If these steps do not resolve the issue, it may be necessary to call a professional plumber.

How do I check if the handle is loose?

Check the handle for any wiggling or looseness. If it is loose, tighten the set screw on the handle with an adjustable wrench. If the screw is stripped, you may need to replace the handle.

What is the flapper valve and what does it do?

The flapper valve is located at the bottom of the toilet tank and is responsible for allowing water to flow from the tank into the bowl, creating a flush. If the flapper valve is worn or damaged, it may not function properly, causing a weak or incomplete flush.

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