Quick Answer:
If a flush leaves a lot of water in the bowl, first try a simple hot-water-and-dish-soap bowl test. If that doesn’t work, use a toilet auger to clear the trap. If the bowl clears for a short time and then fills again, you’re likely dealing with a partial blockage downstream and should call a plumber if an auger won’t fix it.
Why This Happens
When a toilet won’t fully evacuate, the problem is usually a partial blockage inside the trap or further down the drain line, reduced flow from a blocked rim jet, or a venting or sewer-line issue. Recent plumbing work can shift debris or leave a small obstruction — if you recently had plumbing work done, check Incomplete flush after plumbing repair for related signs. Low or intermittent power in the flush can also look like a blockage; see Weak flush only sometimes when flow seems inconsistent.
Step-by-Step What to Do
1. Confirm the symptom
- Flush once and watch: does water rise but not go, or does it go slowly?
- Try a second flush after the bowl settles—if it behaves differently, note the pattern.
2. Try the hot-water-and-dish-soap bowl test
- Put on rubber gloves and add a generous squirt (a tablespoon or two) of liquid dish soap into the bowl.
- Carefully pour about a gallon of hot water (not boiling) from waist height into the bowl — the height adds flushing force. Boiling water can crack porcelain or damage seals.
- Wait 5–10 minutes. If the water level drops and the bowl clears, the soap and hot water often helped dissolve or lubricate a partial clog.
3. Use a toilet auger correctly
- Get a proper toilet auger (not a standard sink snake). Feed the auger into the bowl, aiming into the trap, and crank the handle clockwise while applying gentle pressure.
- When you feel resistance, work it back and forth to break the blockage, then retract the auger slowly while keeping the drum turning to avoid catching the porcelain.
- Flush to test. Repeat once or twice if needed, but avoid excessive force that could damage the bowl or seals.
4. If it clears briefly then returns
- That pattern commonly means a partial blockage further down the line. The auger may move material enough to let it clear temporarily, but the remaining obstruction still restricts flow.
- At this point, deeper cleaning or camera inspection is often required.
5. Test other fixtures and watch for recurring issues
- Flush another toilet and run a sink or tub to see if multiple drains are slow — multiple slow drains often indicate a main sewer or vent problem.
- If the issue comes back frequently despite your efforts, schedule professional help.
What Not to Do
- Don’t keep pouring chemical drain openers into a toilet. They are generally designed for sinks and can damage porcelain, seals, and the sewer line, and they’re dangerous to handle in confined spaces. Use an auger instead.
- Don’t try to force a metal wire or coat hanger into the trap — that can scratch the bowl, push the clog deeper, or injure you.
- Don’t ignore repeated partial clears. If an auger won’t clear the blockage, a plumber is appropriate to avoid pipe damage or a sewer backup.
When to Call a Professional
- If the auger can’t clear the blockage or the bowl only clears briefly and then fills again.
- When multiple drains are slow or there are signs of a sewer backup (foul odors, sewage in basement drains, gurgling fixtures).
- If you’re unsure how to use an auger safely or if the toilet leaks after attempts to clear it — call a licensed plumber to inspect and, if needed, perform a camera inspection or sewer line repair.
Safety Notes
- Wear gloves and eye protection when working with water, soap, and an auger.
- Do not pour boiling water into the bowl — use hot but not boiling water to avoid damaging porcelain or seals.
- If chemical products were previously used, ventilate the bathroom and avoid mixing chemicals. If you suspect chemicals are present, a professional should handle the cleanup.
Common Homeowner Questions
- Q: How long should I try the hot-water-and-dish-soap test before calling someone? A: Give it one try and wait 10–15 minutes; if there’s no improvement, try an auger once before calling a plumber.
- Q: Will a toilet auger damage my toilet? A: A proper toilet auger used carefully should not damage the bowl; avoid excessive force and use a tool made for toilets.
- Q: Could this be a sewer-line problem? A: Yes — recurring partial clears, multiple slow fixtures, or sewage smells suggest the sewer line or venting may be the problem and need a plumber.
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