Toilet bowl won’t empty

Causes

Blockage in the pan trap

Sewer drain blockage

Listed under: Interior, fixtures and fittings, plumbing, sewerage, Services, toilets

Cause

Blockage in the pan trap

Repair

  • insert a plunger into the base of the pan and use a pumping action of 10 or more short bursts to try to break up the blockage. Some plumbers recommend using very hot water and detergent in conjunction with the plunger

  • another option is to use an auger which may work on more stubborn blockages. Available from many hardware stores, these tools have a crank handle and a flexible cable that is sent down to reach the blockage. The blockage may be dislodged or may be hooked and brought back up through the trap – this may be useful where the blockage is caused by something like a toy

  • if these actions do not work, call a licensed or certifying plumber. Work on waste pipes and drains must by law be carried out by a licensed or certifying plumber. You can check a plumber’s licence here

  • make sure no-one in your household is flushing sanitary products, disposable nappies or wipes down the toilet

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Cause

Sewer drain blockage

Repair

  • call a licensed or certifying plumber. Work on waste pipes and drains must by law be carried out by a licensed or certifying plumber. You can check a plumber’s licence here

  • make sure no-one in your household is flushing sanitary products, disposable nappies or wipes down the toilet

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