Occasional plumbing issues, such as pipe leaks and slow drains, are common in a household. It’s also possible that one or more of your toilets will refuse to flush, leaving you with an unpleasant mess. Here are a handful of reasons why your toilet might not flush and what you can do to troubleshoot the problem.

Why Won’t Your Toilet Flush?

1. Broken Flapper or Chain

The chain connects the flapper valve to the toilet handle. The flapper is responsible for opening the tank to allow water into the bowl. If your flapper is bent or you have a broken chain, the flushing mechanism will not engage. These parts are usually inexpensive and straightforward enough to replace on your own, but a professional will ensure total accuracy with the repair, especially if you don’t feel comfortable doing so yourself.

2. Clogs

In many cases, clogs occur as the result of flushing the wrong items, such as paper towels, feminine hygiene products, cotton balls, and medication. If plunging doesn’t restore the function of your toilet, snaking the drain to loosen the blockage is your best option. 

3. Inadequate Water

The water in your toilet’s tank should always fill to about an inch from the top. If levels become low, there will not be enough water to flush your toilet successfully. Have a plumber check the supply valve and repair it, if necessary. 

4. Cracked Tube

Another reason why your toilet’s tank will have low water levels is due to a cracked overflow tube. If this is the case, you should replace it. If you still cannot flush the toilet, a plumbing professional will locate, diagnose, and repair the problem. 

Keep your home plumbing clean and serviceable with help from the team at Plumb-Rite Plumbing. They provide 24-hour emergency plumbing services, including installations, repairs, sewer cleaning, and hydro jetting, to clients throughout Kalispell, MT. Call (406) 257-7795 to request a quote from these plumbers and book an appointment. Visit them online to learn more about flexible financing options and remodeling services.