Toilet Plunging Is Not Working

Not Enough Water

• If the plunger is not working initially, all hope is not lost. Before moving to alternative options, determine whether an adequate amount of water is in the toilet bowl. If enough water is not in the bowl, don't flush the toilet, because that may cause it to overflow. Instead, fill up a bowl of water and pour it into the toilet to cover the plunger and give it another try.

Dish Soap

• If filling up the toilet with water doesn't work, don't throw out the plunger yet. Pour a couple of ounces of liquid dish soap into the toilet and then add some hot water. Let the mixture sit for about 30 minutes and then try using the plunger. Again, don't flush the toilet, but once you begin plunging, the soap dish may help the clog move along.

Snake

• When a plunger isn't going to work, it's time to bring out the reinforcements. A snake is a lengthy, flexible tool that can reach farther down drain to push free clogged debris. The pipes that exit the toilet curve into an "S" shape, which is one reason that toilet paper can get stuck. A snake is able to reach down into the pipes and remove blockages.

Call a Professional

• If all else fails, and the plunger, extra water, dish soap and snake do not unclog a toilet, it is time to call a professional. Before making the phone call, be 100 percent sure that none of the other options is viable. Not only do professionals cost money, but they also may have to remove the toilet to remove the blockage.