Toilet won't flush or overflowing?
Clogged Toilet
A toilet clog usually sits in the trap built into the bowl or just past it in the closet bend. A plunger fixes many of them. When it doesn't, or the toilet clogs every few days, the problem is further down the line.
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Signs it's time to call
- You've tried all kinds of things and it still won't unclog
- The toilet started bubbling, then overflowed
- Both toilets won't flush
- Flushing sends water into the tub or shower
How the Plumber Handles It
Auger the toilet
A closet auger reaches through the trap without scratching the bowl.
Check the line behind it
If the toilet clears but the clog returns, the plumber cables the branch or main line.
Pull the toilet if needed
Hard objects stuck in the trap sometimes need the toilet lifted off.
Clogged Toilet, Explained
What usually clogs toilets
Too much paper at once, wipes labelled as flushable, paper towels, and small objects like toys or toothbrush caps. Older low-flow toilets with weak flushes clog more easily.
When it's more than the toilet
If flushing makes water come up in the tub or shower, or other drains gurgle, the toilet isn't the problem. The clog is in the main line and plunging won't help.
Wipes and the sewer
Wipes don't break down the way toilet paper does. They snag on roots and rough pipe joints and build up into heavy clogs in the main line.
Do This First
Skip the chemical drain cleaner. It can splash back and it can't clear a main line.
- Don't flush again if the water is high. Lift the tank lid and close the flapper.
- Use a flange plunger with a good seal, gentle at first.
- Turn off the water valve behind the toilet if it keeps running.
- If other drains are backing up too, stop and call.
How much does it cost to unclog a toilet?
It depends on where the clog is. A clog in the toilet itself costs less than one in the line behind it. The plumber tells you the price before starting.
Why does my toilet keep clogging?
Repeat clogs point to something stuck in the trap, a weak flush, or a partial clog further down the line.
Can I use drain cleaner in a toilet?
It's not recommended. It can damage the bowl and seals and rarely reaches the clog.
Why does my tub fill up when I flush?
The main line is blocked, so the flush water comes back up at the lowest drain. Call a plumber.
Toilet won't flush or overflowing?
Call now and talk to a local plumber about getting it cleared.
Free to call. Price before work starts.