A toilet that won’t flush can be frustrating, but the good news is that it’s often an easy fix.
Our experts at Len The Plumber have compiled this guide to the most common reasons your toilet might not flush. With a little troubleshooting, you may be able to resolve the issue on your own without needing a plumber.
The lift chain has too much slack.
If you press the handle and feel no resistance, the lift chain inside the tank might have too much slack. This chain connects the handle to the flapper, which releases water.
Solution: Take off the tank lid and shorten the lift chain until there’s no slack between the flapper and the handle. This will help your toilet flush properly.
The toilet is clogged.
If someone used too much toilet paper, dropped a toy in the bowl, or flushed a sanitary product, your toilet is likely clogged.
Solution: You can try to remove any visible items, like toys, by reaching in. For absorbent items, like sanitary products or diapers, use a plunger or a toilet brush to help clear the blockage.
The water level in the toilet tank is too low.
If the water level in the bowl is too low, your toilet won’t flush properly. This could be due to a misadjusted float ball in the tank, which tells the toilet there’s not enough water.
Solution: Open the tank lid and check the float ball. It should sit 1 to 2 inches below the overflow tube and fill valve. There might be a line in the tank showing the correct water level. Adjust the float ball so it stays at that level.
The Flapper Is Warped
If your toilet is running frequently, the flapper might be warped. This rubber part connects to the lift chain and opens when you flush. Over time, it can bend, preventing it from sealing properly and causing water to leak.
Solution: Get a new flapper from a hardware or home improvement store—it’s cheap and easy to find. First, turn off the water supply and drain the toilet tank. Then, replace the warped flapper with the new one. Turn the water back on and test the flush.
There may be an issue with the drain line or sewer system.
If you’ve tried all the previous fixes and your toilet still won’t flush, it’s time to call a professional. A major issue with your plumbing or sewer system might be the cause. You’ll likely notice clogged drains in multiple areas of your home, not just in the toilet.
Solution: Contact a licensed plumber who can diagnose the problem without needing to remove pipes. They’ll likely use tools like video pipe inspection and long-reaching augers to identify and fix the issue. This kind of problem is best handled by an expert rather than attempting a DIY solution.
