If you deal with plumbing clogs on a regular basis, you might find yourself struggling with bent wire hangers, chemical drain cleaner, and unfamiliar pipes. Unfortunately, unless you are a trained professional, all of your efforts might be in vain. Most people don't realize it, but it is possible to damage your plumbing by making a few missteps. If you use the wrong chemicals or you push a little too hard, you might end up dealing with damaged pipes or your clogging problem could get worse. Fortunately, you might be able to use this blog to help you to keep your plumbing flowing smoothly.
A broken toilet can be a massive nuisance, especially if you rely on it daily. There are few things more annoying than realizing that your toilet won’t flush properly, leaks, or runs continuously. Luckily, most toilet problems are easy to diagnose and fix, and you don’t necessarily need the help of a professional. Here's how to troubleshoot a broken toilet and rectify common issues.
Toilet won't flush
If your toilet won’t flush, the chances are that there’s a problem with the flushing mechanism. The most common cause is a clogged drain. If your toilet bowl is full, use a plunger to clear the obstruction. You can also use a drain snake to clear the clog by manually turning the handle and pushing it down the drain. If that doesn’t work, the flapper valve may be stuck, or the chain that connects it to the lever may be damaged, causing it not to lift when you press the handle. In that case, adjust or replace the flapper valve or chain.
Toilet leaks
A leaking toilet can cause water damage, mold, and mildew growth. Check for leaks around the base of the toilet bowl, the tank, and the supply line. Tighten any loose bolts or replace a broken wax ring if the toilet base is leaking. If the tank is leaking, try tightening the bolts or replacing the gasket or flapper valve.
Continuous running
A running toilet can waste many gallons of water every day, which can add a significant amount to your water bill. In most cases, the problem is a leaky flapper valve. Try adjusting or replacing the valve and the chain. If the problem persists, there may be sediment buildup in the tank that interferes with the valve's seal. In that case, clean the tank thoroughly.
Weak flush
If your toilet flushes weakly, adjust the water level or try cleaning the rim jets and the siphon jets. These parts can become clogged with mineral deposits, reducing the water flow and the flushing power. You can use a wire hanger or a special cleaning tool to clean the jets. Another potential issue that may cause a weak flush is a damaged or worn flapper valve or an improperly adjusted flush valve.
Weird noises
If your toilet makes strange noises when you flush or run the water, it could be a sign of a malfunctioning valve, leaky flapper, or loose bolts. Tighten any loose parts and check for leaks. You may also try cleaning the tank or replacing the valve or flapper if the noise persists.
Troubleshooting a broken toilet is something you can do yourself with the right tools and a little bit of know-how. Before you start, turn off the water supply to the toilet and take some time to diagnose the problem. If you’re not comfortable with DIY repairs, don’t hesitate to contact a qualified plumbing professional who can help you rectify the problem before it gets worse.
Share8 December 2023
