Today, most homes have running water readily available. Because of this, it’s easy to forget that you may not have access to this modern-day convenience from time to time.
For example, if a natural disaster hits your area, the water may be off for a while. The water may be turned off for remodeling or repairs in other situations. Even the city can shut your water off temporarily if repairs are needed.
Even though no running water will keep you from handling some day-to-day activities, there are a few ways you can still flush your toilet. Keep reading to learn how to flush a toilet without running water.
Flushing Your Toilet When the Water Is Off
Even if the water is off, your toilet bowl should have enough water for at least one more flush. The problem is after you have used up your flush – what then?
There are a few different methods you can try:
Add Water to the Toilet Bowl
If you have a different source of water, you can flush. You will need at least one gallon for every flush. If you know that you may be without water for a while, try filling up your bathtub before this happens. You can also use spare potable water if you have any. Some people even prefer to use the water in their Jacuzzis or pools.
All you must do is collect water in a bucket or bowl that you can lift and pour. When you are ready to flush the toilet, pour the collected water into the toilet bowl slowly and then dump the rest in quickly. This will create pressure that will push the contents of the toilet into the pipes. Because of this, there’s no need to use the handle to flush the toilet.
If you use this method, you aren’t emptying the tank, so you don’t have to refill it. Instead, you work from the toilet bowl and can easily repeat the process as much as necessary.
Add Water to the Toilet Tank
There’s also the option to add water to the toilet tank. You must remove the lid from the tank and fill it up with water until it sits at the overflow line. Once this is done, you can use the toilet’s handle normally. If you can’t create the flushing action by just pouring water into the bowl, this method is recommended.
Keep in mind that with this method, you will need more water. If you have limited water available, the first method is probably the better option.
Flushing Your Toilet without Running Water
You can see that you have options to flush your toilet if you don’t have running water. Each of these methods is equally effective and will allow you to continue having the convenience of plumbing, even if the water is off temporarily. Keep this in mind to ensure you are ready to handle this situation if it happens in the future.