Problem Summary
A toilet that won’t flush can turn your day upside down. Sometimes the handle feels loose and nothing happens, other times the bowl fills but won’t drain. The cause might be as minor as a slipped chain or as serious as a blocked sewer line. This guide walks you through every common scenario, using a decision tree that makes troubleshooting simple. You’ll learn quick fixes you can safely try yourself, what tools to keep on hand, and when to stop and call a licensed plumber.
5-Minute Fix
Before you dive into deeper repairs, try these fast checks:
- Check the chain. Lift the tank lid and press the handle. If the chain isn’t lifting the flapper, reattach or shorten it.
- Check the water level. If the tank isn’t filling, the float may be set too low. Adjust so it fills to ~2.5 cm (1 in) below the overflow tube.
- Use a flange plunger. Seal the opening in the bowl and pump firmly 10–15 times. Small clogs often clear instantly.
If the toilet flushes normally after this, you’re done.
Safety STOP
⚠️ Overflow warning: If the water level rises dangerously close to the rim, stop immediately. Shut off the toilet’s supply valve (the small silver knob near the floor behind the toilet). If water continues to rise, use your home’s main shutoff.
👉 At this point, it’s safer to book a plumber at unclogit.com or call 604-496-1661.
Decision Tree: Find the Cause
- Handle feels loose, no resistance: Chain is disconnected, or handle is broken.
- Handle feels stiff but doesn’t flush: Corroded handle arm or flapper not lifting.
- Tank doesn’t refill with water: Shutoff valve closed, fill valve clogged, or water supply issue.
- Tank fills, but flush is weak: Flapper not sealing, water level too low, or rim jets blocked.
- Bowl fills but doesn’t drain: Local clog in the trap — use plunger or auger.
- Bowl fills and other drains gurgle: Main sewer or vent problem — plumber needed.
Toilet Won’t Flush
Tools & Equipment
- 1 Flat screwdriver est. $5–15
- 1 Adjustable pliers est. $15–30
- 1 Flange plunger est. $15–35
- 1 Toilet auger (6 ft, with bowl guard) est. $60–120
- 1 Wet/dry shop vacuum (optional) est. $80–150 (entry-level unit)
- 1 Gloves (disposable or reusable) est. $5–15
Parts & Supplies
- 1 Replacement toilet handle/lever est. $10–15
- 1 Toilet flapper est. $15–25
- 1 Fill valve assembly est. $35–60
- 1 Cleaning brush/descaler est. $8–20
Instructions
- 1. Repair the Handle and ChainRemove the tank lid. Watch the chain as you press the handle.Adjust slack to about 6–12 mm (¼–½ in).Replace broken handles with universal replacements ($10–15).
- 2. Replace the FlapperSigns of trouble: warped rubber, slimy buildup, water constantly running.Shut off water, drain the tank, unclip the old flapper, and install a new one ($15–25).Align it so it seals evenly over the flush valve.
- 3. Adjust the Water LevelWater should sit ~2.5 cm below the overflow tube.Adjust clip on modern fill valves or gently bend the float arm.Ensure shutoff valve is fully open.
- 4. Clear a Clog with a PlungerWarm the rubber in hot water first for a tighter seal.Cover the outlet fully, push slowly to expel air, then pump firmly 10–15 times.Test flush once. If water rises, stop and wait before retrying.👉 See detailed tutorials on UnclogToilets.com: How to Use a Plunger.
- 5. Use a Toilet AugerInsert gently until you feel resistance.Crank to break or hook the blockage.Withdraw slowly to avoid scratching porcelain.Flush to confirm clearance.👉 Learn more on UnclogToilets.com: How to Use a Toilet Auger.
- 6. Service or Replace the Fill ValveShut off supply, remove cap, rinse debris.If valve is brittle or worn, replace ($25–40).Follow manufacturer’s instructions for installation.
Notes
Pro Tips
💡 Keep a dedicated toilet plunger — don’t share with sinks.💡 Mark the correct water line inside your tank with a pencil for quick reference.
💡 Avoid chemical drain cleaners — they can crack porcelain and damage plumbing.
💡 If your toilet is older than 20 years, replacing it may save water and reduce future issues.
Case Study: Real Call in Burnaby
In April 2025, a family in Burnaby booked unclogit.com when their toilet stopped flushing during a weekend. They tried plunging, but the water still wouldn’t drain.
When the plumber arrived, he found a small toy lodged in the trap. A quick auger pull solved the problem, and the toilet worked normally again.
Final cost: $295 before tax (including the $249 minimum service fee).
When to Call a Plumber
- Overflow risk even after plunging.
- Strange gurgling in sinks or tubs when flushing.
- Multiple toilets failing at once.
- Tried plunging/augering with no success.
👉 Book a plumber on unclogit.com or call 604-496-1661. Licensed, Red Seal plumbers are usually available 24/7 in Metro Vancouver.
How To Unclog a Toilet
- How to Use a Plunger (Toilet) — UnclogToilets.com
- How to Use a Toilet Auger — UnclogToilets.com
FAQ
Q: How can I tell if my toilet clog is local or in the main sewer line?
A: If only one toilet is affected, it’s a local issue. If multiple drains gurgle or back up, it’s likely a mainline blockage.
Q: My toilet flushes weakly, leaving waste behind. Why?
A: Mineral buildup under the rim jets often restricts water flow. Scrub with a stiff brush or use a descaling cleaner.
Q: Is it safe to use a wet/dry shop vacuum?
A: Yes, carefully. Use a dedicated hose and wear gloves. This can remove stubborn clogs when plunging fails.
Q: Why does my flapper wear out so quickly?
A: Drop-in chlorine tablets degrade rubber. Use gentle cleaners or vinegar instead.
Q: Can vent problems cause flushing issues?
A: Yes. If plumbing vents are blocked, air can’t enter the system, leading to weak flushes and gurgling noises.
Next Steps
If your toilet still won’t flush after these steps, don’t risk water damage. Book a licensed plumber now at unclogit.com or call 604-496-1661.
