How to Clear a Stopped-Up Toilet

Funnel-cup plungers, as shown, have a funnel-shaped extension on the cup.

To clear a stopped-up toilet, you must have the correct tools for the job as well as the knowledge of how to use the tools effectively. A funnel-cup plunger fits down into the contours of the toilet bowl's drain hole, making it more effective on toilets than other plungers. Purchase a funnel-cup plunger as well as a toilet auger at a home improvement store, keeping them on hand for whenever a toilet clogs.

Things You'll Need

• Funnel-cup toilet plunger
• Toilet auger

Instructions

1. Turn off the flow of water to the toilet's tank by turning the handle on the water supply valve clockwise until you feel resistance. Flush the toilet once, unless the water in the bowl already is at a level above normal.

2. Press a funnel-cup plunger into the toilet's drain hole. Push the plunger's handle up and down vigorously, keeping the plunger in the bowl's drain hole. Plunge the toilet's drain at least 12 times, then remove it from the bowl.

3. Feed a toilet auger into the bowl, pointing the hook upward. Turn the auger's crank clockwise once you have inserted the end into the drain hole, feeding the auger through the toilet's drainpipe.

4. Turn the auger's handle counterclockwise if the auger contacts a clog you cannot push through, withdrawing the auger an inch. Turn the crank clockwise to push through the clog and continue feeding it into the drain until you reach the end of the auger's line.

5. Withdraw the auger from the toilet by turning the crank counterclockwise. Plunge the toilet again, then turn the water control valve's handle counterclockwise to refill the toilet's tank. Flush the toilet again to see if the clog still is present.

6. Feed the auger back into the toilet's drain up to two more times, plunging and flushing the toilet after each time.

References

• This Old House; Clear Any Clogged Drain; Merle Henkenius
• Drano: How to Unclog a Toilet