Toilet Not Draining When Flushed

Quick answer

If your toilet won't drain when flushed, first try plunging to clear a clog. If that fails, use a toilet auger. Check the water level in the tank and ensure the flapper is sealing properly. If the issue persists, it may be a deeper blockage or a problem with the toilet's internal mechanisms.

Confirm the symptom

• Toilet doesn't drain after pressing the handle
• Water stays in the bowl after flushing
• Toilet fills with water but doesn't siphon it out
• Toilet makes gurgling sounds but doesn't flush properly

Tools and prep

• Rubber plunger
• Toilet auger (snake)
• Adjustable wrench
• Screwdriver
• Bucket
• Work gloves
• Turn off water supply to the toilet before starting
• Place a towel or mat to catch spills

Step-by-step troubleshooting

1. Check for a Clog in the Bowl
   Do: Use a plunger to create a tight seal around the drain hole and plunge vigorously.
   Observe: Water level in the bowl and whether it drains.
   Means: If water drains, the clog was in the bowl or trapway.
   Next: If the clog is cleared, move to step 2. If not, proceed to step 3.
2. Use a Toilet Auger
   Do: Insert the auger into the drain hole and crank it to break up or remove the clog.
   Observe: Resistance or debris being pulled out.
   Means: A deeper clog in the trapway or drain line.
   Next: If the auger clears the clog, move to step 2. If not, proceed to step 4.
3. Inspect Water Level in the Tank
   Do: Check the water level in the tank. It should be about 1 inch below the overflow tube.
   Observe: Water level and whether it's too high or too low.
   Means: Incorrect water level can affect the amount of water available for flushing.
   Next: Adjust the water level if needed. Proceed to step 5.
4. Check the Flapper Valve
   Do: Lift the flapper manually to see if it opens fully and closes properly.
   Observe: Whether the flapper opens and closes smoothly.
   Means: A faulty flapper can prevent enough water from entering the bowl during a flush.
   Next: If the flapper is damaged or not sealing, replace it. Proceed to step 6.
5. Examine the Chain or Lever
   Do: Ensure the chain connecting the flapper to the flush handle is not too tight or too loose.
   Observe: Chain tension and movement of the flapper when the handle is pressed.
   Means: Improper chain tension can prevent the flapper from opening fully.
   Next: Adjust the chain length if necessary. Proceed to step 7.
6. Test the Flush Handle and Tank Mechanism
   Do: Check the flush handle and tank mechanism for any obstructions or damage.
   Observe: Smooth operation of the handle and mechanism.
   Means: A broken or misaligned handle or mechanism can prevent proper flushing.
   Next: If the handle or mechanism is faulty, replace or repair it. Proceed to step 8.
7. Check for Blockages in the Drain Line
   Do: If the toilet still doesn't drain, there may be a blockage in the main drain line. Use a plunger or auger to try clearing it.
   Observe: Whether water drains from the toilet bowl after attempting to clear the blockage.
   Means: A blockage in the main drain line affecting multiple fixtures.
   Next: If the blockage persists, consider calling a professional plumber. Proceed to step 9.
8. Inspect the Vent Pipe
   Do: Check the vent pipe on the roof for blockages like leaves or debris.
   Observe: Whether the vent pipe is clear and allowing proper airflow.
   Means: A blocked vent pipe can prevent proper drainage and cause gurgling sounds.
   Next: If the vent pipe is blocked, clear it. If not, proceed to step 10.
9. Check for Main Sewer Line Issues
   Do: If the toilet still doesn't drain, there may be a blockage in the main sewer line.
   Observe: Whether other drains in the house are also slow or backed up.
   Means: A blockage in the main sewer line affecting the entire house.
   Next: If the main sewer line is blocked, call a professional plumber.

Common causes

Parts matching

Common parts needed to fix a toilet not draining when flushed:

• Plunger
• Toilet auger
• Replacement flapper
• Adjustable water valve
• Adjustable chain
• Vent pipe cleaning tools

Ensure the replacement parts match your toilet model for proper fit and function.

When to call a professional

• If plunging and using a toilet auger don't clear the clog.
• If the water level in the tank is consistently too high or too low despite adjustments.
• If the flapper valve is damaged beyond simple replacement.
• If there's a blockage in the main drain line or main sewer line.
• If the vent pipe is blocked and difficult to access or clear.
• If multiple fixtures in the house are affected by the same drainage issue.
• If the toilet still doesn't drain after following all troubleshooting steps.

FAQ

Related guides

• toilet won't flush properly
• toilet not flushing completely
• toilet not filling with water

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