We all rely on toilets as an essential part of our daily routine. Life without a properly functioning toilet can quickly turn into a disaster. So, when your toilet starts acting up, it’s more than just an inconvenience – it’s a real problem. In today’s blog, we’ll guide you through common toilet issues you might face and provide solutions to get everything back on track. Let’s get into it!
How To Fix A Toilet
How A Toilet Works
There are three main parts in a toilet: the tank full of water, the flush lever that starts the action, and the bowl where waste dumps and gets sucked down to the sewer.
Now, when you pull or push that flush lever, you’re basically letting loose the water that’s been held in a tank. Then, the water from the tank rushes down into the bowl, creating a suction power. This suction effect does a fantastic job of pulling down all the water and whatever you’ve left behind in the bowl, sending it on a one-way trip down to the sewer.
After flushing, the tank refills with water, and a float valve plays a crucial role in this process. As the water fills, the float valve rises, eventually reaching a predetermined level. Once this level is attained, the float valve efficiently shuts off the water flow.
Helpful Tip: If you require new parts, it’s essential to determine your toilet’s age and brand. Check inside the tank for a printed tag containing this valuable information.
Problem #1: The Toilet Is Constantly Running
One common issue faced by many is the continuous running of water in the toilet. Wondering how to fix a toilet that runs constantly? Ensure that the end of the fill line is above the water line. If it’s submerged, trim it down.
If that’s not the case, try to shake the handle. If it stops making sound, then you know it’s the flapper. Hold down the flapper and loosen the chain. Sometimes, the chain may be holding the flapper slightly open.
If it needs to be replaced, pull out the flapper and plug in a new one. Make sure you get the right size because they come in three different sizes.
Problem #2: The Tank Won’t Fill
Now, the opposite of the first problem: how to fix a toilet where the tank won’t fill.
First, look at the water supply valve, usually behind or beneath the toilet. Ensure it’s fully open by turning it clockwise. You also want to check if the fill valve is dirty or damaged. Debris can obstruct the fill valve; if it’s damaged, consider replacing it with a new one. The good news is that this is simple as there are specific instructions on how to do it, found in the product’s manual.
You can also check the float because if it’s damaged or misaligned, it can prevent the fill valve from operating. If it’s misaligned, simply adjust it.
Problem #3: The Toilet Won’t Flush
Now, let’s address the issue of a toilet that won’t flush. There are several troubleshooting steps you can take. Begin by inspecting the arm that connects to the flapper chain for any signs of damage. Replacing it and reconnecting the chain might resolve the problem if it’s broken.
If the arm appears to be in good condition, check the chain for excessive slack. Adjust it to the right tension, avoiding both too loose and too tight conditions. Confirm that the flush handle is securely connected to the lift chain and the flapper.
Another approach is to measure the flush valve to ensure you have the correct flapper size. Verify that the flapper effectively seals the flush valve. If it shows signs of wear or damage, opt for a replacement.
If the above methods fail to resolve the issue, consider resetting the tank water fill level. Adjust the float cup by twisting it for modern toilets or bend the floater for older models.
Problem #4: The Toilet Is Leaking Water
If you notice water pooling around the base of the toilet, it may indicate a leak. Investigate the wax ring beneath the toilet, as it may be the source of the problem.
Moreover, If you believe the tank is leaking, perform a simple test using leak detection tablets. Drop the tablets into the tank, but refrain from flushing immediately. After waiting approximately 30 minutes, inspect the area between the tank and the bowl. If you observe colored water, it suggests a leak. In such a scenario, attempt to tighten the nuts connecting the tank and the bowl to address the issue.
End Note
A malfunctioning toilet can throw a wrench into your household routine. Since toilets are essential, ensuring their proper function is critical. But sometimes unforeseen issues can arise. How to fix a toilet that’s acting up? Don’t worry! There are solutions. The tips mentioned in this blog are the initial steps you can take to troubleshoot the problem. If these steps still don’t yield results, it’s time to bring in the experts. At Johnson’s, we’ve got the expertise you need! Don’t hesitate to reach out, and we’ll ensure your toilet is back in top shape, keeping everyone at home content!
Recent Comments