How to Fix a Stopped-Up Toilet

Most clogs result from an excess of tissue--a problem that's easily resolved. Partial clogs usually require a closet auger. If the problem is in the drain line and out of reach, you may need a longer snake or a professional drain-line service.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Closet Auger
• Plunger
• Bucket

For tissue clogs

1. Fill a bucket or other container with about 2 gallons (8 l) of water. Pour it all at once into the center of the bowl. In most cases, this will take care of the problem.

2. If that fails, position a plunger over the opening so it makes the best seal possible. Move the plunger up and down vigorously, using very short strokes so it maintains contact with the bowl.

For stubborn clogs or other obstacles

1. Use a closet auger to reach and pull out clogs that lie beyond the trapway, to remove an obstacle other than excessive tissue, or to clear a clog that remains after you've tried the methods above.

2. 

   Insert the auger into the opening at the bottom of the bowl and push it in slowly until you feel soft resistance. Keep pushing, but start turning the handle clockwise to screw the end into the clog (see below). Keep turning as you draw the clog back into the bowl.

3. Remove or break up the clog and flush the toilet to test it.

Tips & Warnings

• If the bowl is near overflowing, wait until the water level goes down before using the water bucket or plunger method.

• Plungers are fine for clearing clogs caused by tissues. If another foreign object is the problem, the plunger may just push the clog out of reach but not out of the drain. Your best bet in this case is to use an auger.

• Oval plungers generally make a better seal than bell-shaped ones.