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3 Reasons Why Your Toilet Won’t Flush And How to Fix It (Norfolk Homeowners & Businesses Guide)

  • Writer: ELI Digital
    ELI Digital
  • Jul 31
  • 2 min read

A toilet that won’t flush properly is more than just a daily nuisance, it could be a warning sign that something deeper is wrong with your drainage system. Whether you’re a homeowner in Norwich or a business in King’s Lynn, HFS Waste Management is here to help you spot the issues before they become major (and costly) problems.


HFS Waste Management van on site at a customer's house in Norfolk ready to unblock their drains

Here are the top 3 reasons your toilet might not be flushing and how to fix it:


  1. Low Water Levels in the Cistern


The Problem:

If you lift the toilet lid and the water level is unusually low, it won’t generate enough force to flush waste properly.


The Fix:

Check the water valve behind the toilet it may have been accidentally turned off. If the valve is open and the water still won’t rise, there could be a problem with your float or fill valve. These are usually inexpensive to replace and easy to install.


Pro Tip: Still not working? There may be a blockage in the internal mechanism, that’s when calling a professional like HFS Waste Management is your best bet.


  1. Blocked Toilet or Drain Line


The Problem:

Toilet paper, wipes (even “flushable” ones), or foreign objects can clog your toilet or the drain beyond it, stopping the flush.


The Fix:

Start with a plunger. If that doesn’t work, a toilet auger or snake may help shift the blockage. But if you notice water backing up into other drains (like your shower or sink), you’re likely dealing with a deeper issue in the drainage system.


Expert Advice: Norfolk’s older drainage systems are particularly vulnerable to build-up and tree root intrusions. Our CCTV drain survey service pinpoints blockages fast, without digging up your garden!


  1. Septic Tank or Sewer Line Issues


The Problem:

If your property uses a septic tank or has old sewer lines, a toilet that won’t flush could mean they’re full or damaged.


The Fix:

This isn’t a DIY job. Septic tanks need regular emptying, and any issue with sewer lines can quickly escalate. HFS Waste Management offers septic tank emptying across Norfolk, using state-of-the-art equipment.


Still Can’t Flush? Call the Norfolk Drainage Experts. From emergency callouts to planned maintenance, HFS Waste Management covers the whole of Norfolk with fast, reliable drainage solutions. If your toilet still won’t flush, don’t risk long-term damage, get in touch with us today.


Please call us or complete our contact form.

📞 01263 722027

📍 Serving Norwich, Thetford, King’s Lynn, Cromer, and everywhere in between.

 
 
 

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