Is your toilet stuck in a frustrating plumbing limbo where it refuses to flush? Don’t worry—there are several common reasons your toilet may not be flushing, and most of them have easy solutions. In this guide, we’ll help you diagnose the problem and offer actionable steps to get your toilet back to working order. Whether it’s a clog, a faulty part, or low water pressure, Mike Diamond Services is here to help Los Angeles residents resolve their plumbing woes.
Your Toilet is Clogged.
This is one of the most common reasons for a toilet that won’t flush, even if the clog isn’t immediately visible. Non-flushable items like wipes can block the sewer line, and partial clogs further down the line may weaken the flush.
How to Fix It:
- Use a plunger: A flange plunger is best for creating a good seal in the toilet bowl.
- Try a toilet auger: If plunging doesn’t work, a toilet auger can help loosen deep blockages.
- Hot water method: Turn off the water supply, flush the toilet, and add hot (not boiling) water to the bowl. Let it sit for several minutes, then flush again.
- If none of these solutions work, consider professional drain cleaning.
Check Your Toilet’s Handle and Chain
If the handle doesn’t initiate a flush, the chain connecting the handle to the flapper may have become disconnected or is the wrong length. A chain that’s too long won’t lift the flapper, while a chain that’s too short prevents the flapper from sealing.
How to Fix It:
Test the handle and chain to ensure it lifts the flapper fully and allows it to seal properly.
Open the toilet tank and check if both ends of the chain are connected.
Why Won’t the Flapper in the Toilet Close?
The flapper is the rubber valve that controls water flow from the tank to the bowl. Over time, the flapper may warp or wear out due to constant contact with water, preventing it from sealing correctly.
How to Fix It:
Turn off the water, drain the tank, and replace the flapper with a new one from a hardware store. Ensure you reattach the chain correctly.
Check for signs of wear or damage. If the flapper doesn’t seal properly, replace it.
Adjust or Replace Your Overflow Tube
The overflow tube allows water to flow into the toilet bowl during a flush. If cracked or damaged, it may prevent a proper flush.
How to Fix It:
If the overflow tube is damaged, replace it. A plumber can also help diagnose and install a new part.
Your Toilet Tank isn’t Filling Up All the Way
Your toilet needs enough water in the tank to generate the pressure required for a full flush. If the water level is too low, the flush will be weak or non-existent.
How to Fix It:
Adjust the float on its arm so that the tank fills with the correct amount of water.
Open the toilet tank and check the float and fill line.
Clean Your Toilet Jets
Toilet jets are small holes along the rim of the bowl that release water to create the flush’s swirling action. These jets can become clogged with lime or mineral deposits over time, reducing the flush’s effectiveness.
How to Fix It:
Use a wire, nail, or small brush to clean the jets. You can also use a solution of watered-down bleach or vinegar to clear blockages.
When to Call a Professional
If you’ve tried all these solutions and your toilet still won’t flush properly, it might be time to contact a professional. Mike Diamond Services offers expert toilet repair and drain cleaning for residents across Los Angeles. We can quickly diagnose and resolve any plumbing issue, ensuring your bathroom is back to normal in no time.
Why Trust Mike Diamond?
With over 20 years of experience, Mike Diamond Services provides expert plumbing solutions across Los Angeles. Our plumbers are licensed, EPA-certified, and known for their top-tier customer service. Don’t let toilet troubles ruin your day—contact the Smell Good Plumber™ for fast and reliable service.
Call Us Today
Need help with a toilet that won’t flush? Call Mike Diamond Services at (888) 610-6562 or schedule a service appointment online. We’ll fix your plumbing problems and ensure your home runs smoothly.