To unclog a toilet, start by using a plunger specifically designed for toilets. Ensure there is enough water in the bowl to cover the plunger’s cup. Place the plunger over the drain hole and push down gently at first to get a seal, then pump vigorously several times. After plunging, lift the plunger away quickly to see if the water drains.

If plunging doesn’t work, try using a toilet auger (also called a plumbing snake). Insert the auger into the toilet drain and turn the handle clockwise to break up or retrieve the clog. Avoid using chemical drain cleaners, as they can damage your plumbing.

If the clog persists after these attempts or if you are uncomfortable performing these steps, contact a professional plumber. Swish'n Flo Plumbing in Spencer, Iowa offers expert toilet unclogging services and emergency support to quickly resolve your issue.

A toilet that won’t stop running is usually caused by one or more of the following issues:

Faulty Flapper Valve: The flapper may not be sealing properly, allowing water to continuously flow from the tank into the bowl.

Chain Problems: The chain connecting the flush handle to the flapper might be too short, too long, or tangled, preventing the flapper from sealing fully.

Fill Valve Malfunction: If the fill valve is not shutting off when the tank is full, water will keep running into the tank and overflow into the overflow tube.

Float Issues: A misadjusted or damaged float can cause water to rise too high and spill into the overflow tube, keeping the water running.

Overflow Tube Problems: If the water level inside the tank is too high, water will constantly drain into the overflow tube.

To fix the problem, inspect and adjust or replace the flapper, chain, fill valve, and float as needed. If you’re unsure or need assistance, contact Swish’n Flo Plumbing.

If you don’t have hot water, it could be due to several common issues:

Pilot Light is Out: For gas water heaters, the pilot light might have gone out, preventing the burner from heating the water.

Tripped Circuit Breaker: Electric water heaters rely on circuit breakers; if the breaker trips, the heater won’t operate.

Faulty Heating Element: Electric models have heating elements that can burn out and stop heating water.

Thermostat Malfunction: A broken thermostat can prevent the water heater from reaching the desired temperature.

Sediment Buildup: Over time, sediment can collect in the tank, reducing heating efficiency or damaging components.

Broken Dip Tube: The dip tube directs cold water to the bottom of the tank; if broken, cold water mixes with hot, lowering temperature.

Leaks or Plumbing Issues: Leaks or valve problems can cause hot water to escape or mix with cold water before it reaches your tap.

If you’re unable to identify or fix the problem, it’s best to contact Swish’n Flo Plumbing to diagnose and repair your water heater.

When your sinks gurgle when you flush the toilet, it usually indicates a problem with the plumbing vent system or a partial blockage in the drain lines. Plumbing vents allow air to flow into the pipes, maintaining proper pressure and enabling water and waste to flow smoothly. If a vent is clogged or blocked, air can't enter the system as needed, causing negative pressure that pulls air through nearby fixtures like your sink drains. This airflow creates the gurgling sound you hear.

Another common cause is a partial clog in the drainpipes shared by the toilet and sink. When the toilet flushes, water pushes past the blockage, displacing air and forcing it to escape through the sink drains, leading to the gurgling noise.

To resolve this issue, a plumber can inspect and clear any vent blockages or drain clogs, ensuring your plumbing system works correctly and quietly. If you're experiencing these sounds regularly, contacting Swish’n Flo Plumbing promptly can prevent more severe drainage problems.

To improve water pressure in your faucets and shower, try the following steps:

Check for Leaks: Inspect pipes and fixtures for leaks, which reduce water pressure.

Clean Faucet Aerators and Showerheads: Mineral buildup can block water flow. Unscrew and soak them in vinegar to dissolve deposits.

Inspect the Pressure Regulator: If your home has a pressure regulator, it may need adjustment or replacement.

Remove Flow Restrictors: Some fixtures have built-in restrictors to conserve water; removing them can increase pressure but may raise water usage.

Flush the Water Heater: Sediment buildup inside the water heater can reduce hot water pressure.

Check the Main Shutoff Valve: Ensure it’s fully open to allow maximum water flow.

Install a Pressure Booster: For persistent low pressure, consider a pressure booster pump installed by a professional.

Consult a Plumber: If these steps don’t help, an expert can diagnose and fix hidden issues like pipe corrosion or obstructions.

For professional inspection and repair, contact Swish'n Flo Plumbing, LLC in Spencer, Iowa.