You’ve pushed down the lever, but the toilet wont flush. Oh, man. That is NOT how you wanted to start your day (or afternoon… or evening). What could possibly be wrong, and what on Earth can you do about it? Here’s a quick start guide to possible causes.
1. The lift chain is broken.
The lift chain must be intact in order to raise the flapper and flush your toilet. If it isn’t, the toilet won’t flush. Solve this problem and avoid a call to a plumber by purchasing a new one. Chains are sold separately or almost always come with a flapper. Just make sure you get the right flapper because if it doesn’t seal properly the commode still won’t flush and instead will run continually.
2. The toilet is clogged.
Clogs occur when you flush a foreign object or too much toilet paper at one time. If you experience a clog, use a plunger to dislodge it. If you can’t dislodge it on your own, you may need to call a plumbing repair company.
3. Your main sewer line is clogged.
A clogged sewer main often appears to be nothing more than a backed up toilet. Some telltale signs that you’re dealing with a sewer main are other fixtures being affected. For instance, if you flush the toilet and start seeing water rising in your tub or shower, or if you run the washing machine and it backs up into your toilet, it is definitely a main. This will definitely require the attention of a trained professional.
If you can’t determine the cause of your toilet’s problems, or if you are unable to fix the toilet yourself, all is not lost!
[Read our tips to help prevent toilet stoppages!]
A toilet that wont flush may be the perfect comedic prop in a Ben Stiller movie, but it’s no laughing matter if you’re actually dealing with a clog or overflow issue in real life. In addition to sanitation issues that a clog can cause, you also might face problems caused by the leaching of water into floorboards and other areas where water shouldn’t flow. Mold, mildew, infestation, and structural problems with your floor can easily follow. Fortunately, our trusted plumbers are here to save the day. Call Gogo Rooter at (408) 282-7026 24/7 for help!
