It’s a moment of panic like no other. You pull down on the toilet handle, and instead of flushing away the contents rise and threaten to overflow into the room. The panic is understandable, though useless. That won’t help, and only delays the proper actions. Good plumbing installation and good maintenance by a pro plumber might have prevented the problem in the first place. But when it happens, in spite of all prevention, reach for the flange plunger, fast. That’s the plunger with the bell or other shaped end,not the one with a flat end. The flat type is the proper tool for a sink clog, but not the one you want for the toilet.
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Let’s hope you have a flange plunger right there when you need it. If you do, put that plunger to work. Do it right. Get the flange plunger inserted until it makes a good seal, and start in with a good plunging action. It isn’t just pushing that clears the clog. The plunging action loosens the clog and encourages a successful flush on the next try.
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The properly applied flange plunger should get you back in business. But if it doesn’t work, you can always call on your local qualified plumbing professional for help. Your plumbing pro will have the tools and techniques to deal with the clog. Your plumbing service can get you out of a mess, and help prevent another one in the future.