Toilet problems are one of the most frustrating plumbing issues in a home. Not only do they disrupt our routine, but they can also cause significant mess and water wastage. Fortunately, not all toilet problems require calling a plumber. With some know-how and patience, you can fix most toilet problems yourself.
This blog will discuss ten common toilet problems and how to fix them yourself. But if you need help solving the problem, call a professional from On Point Plumbing & Heating.
Clogged Toilet
One of the most common toilet problems is a clogged toilet. To unclog it yourself:
- Start by turning off the water supply valve behind the toilet.
- Use a plunger to create a vacuum and push the blockage through the pipes.
- If that does not work, use a toilet auger to remove the clog.
Running Toilet
A running toilet may seem a small annoyance, but it can greatly impact your water bill and the environment. Every little drip adds up and can waste gallons of water each day. The good news is that fixing it can be a relatively simple task.
First, remove the lid from the toilet tank and inspect the flapper valve. If it’s not sealing correctly, it’s time to replace it. If that doesn’t solve the problem, you may need to check the fill valve and adjust the float to the correct level. Taking care of a running toilet saves money and helps conserve water and protect our planet.
Leaky Toilet
A leaky toilet can cause water damage to the floor and wastewater. To fix it:
- Inspect the wax ring at the base of the bathroom.
- If it is damaged, replace it. If the leak comes from the tank, it may be due to a cracked tank or damaged washers.
- In that case, replace the washers or the tank itself.
Weak Flush
Dealing with a weak flush can be a frustrating and uncomfortable experience. Nothing is quite as unpleasant as walking into a bathroom only to find that the toilet needs to do its job properly. Unfortunately, the pressures of modern plumbing can sometimes let us down, resulting in a weak flush.
There are numerous reasons why this might happen, but two of the most common culprits are low water pressure and a clog. Luckily, you can take some simple steps to rectify the situation. Firstly, check the water level in the tank and adjust the flapper if necessary. If that doesn’t work, try cleaning the rim jets and holes underneath the rim to remove any clogs, preventing proper waste removal.
Phantom Flush
A phantom flush is when the toilet flushes on its own. It is usually due to a leaking flapper valve. Try cleaning the valve and the seat to ensure they are sealing correctly. If that does not work, replace the flapper.
Slow Filling Toilet
A slow-filling toilet can cause frustration, especially if there is a long wait between flushes. Check the refill tube and make sure it is not blocked. Adjust the float level to allow more water to enter the tank.
Loose Toilet Seat
A loose toilet seat can be quite frustrating and noisy. To fix it, inspect the bolts and tighten them if necessary. If the bolts are damaged, replace them with new ones.
Rusty Toilet Bowl
When it comes to bathroom aesthetics, one thing that can bring down the look and feel of the space is a rusty toilet bowl. Not only does it look old and tired, but it can also be gross. Luckily, there are ways to remove the rust and restore your toilet bowl to its former glory.
Drain the bowl first and apply an effective rust remover like vinegar. With some elbow grease and a good brush, you can scrub away the rust and make your bowl look new.
Partial Flush
A partial flush is when the tank only empties partially. It is usually due to a faulty flapper valve or a clog in the rim jets. Check the flapper and the rim holes and clean or replace them if necessary.
Crack in the Toilet
A crack in the toilet may seem like a minor issue, but it can quickly become a major headache. Even the smallest hairline gap can cause leaks, leading to water damage and mold growth. Take your time–if you notice a crack, it’s important to take action immediately.
The best solution is to replace the entire toilet rather than trying to patch up the gap. Not only will this prevent further damage, but it will also give you peace of mind knowing that your bathroom is leak-free.
Toilet problems can be frustrating but only sometimes require a plumber. With a little elbow grease and some basic plumbing knowledge, most toilet problems can be fixed at home. Remember to turn off the water supply before attempting any repairs, and feel free to call a professional if you feel unsure.
Following the tips above, you can save money and avoid the hassle of a malfunctioning toilet. For more information, check out this website at https://www.onpointplumbingandheating.com/.
