Common toilet problems can often be fixed with DIY repairs. If you’re ever faced with a clogged, leaking, or constantly running toilet, here are a few ways to get it fixed.
- Constantly running toilet
If water is constantly flowing into the tank through the fill valve, the first thing you should do is check the flapper. If it’s not sealing the flush valve opening then you need to replace it. If this doesn’t work, you may need to replace the entire flush valve assembly.
On the other hand, if the tank isn’t emptying or water is spilling into the overflow tube, the fill valve may need to be cleaned or replaced.
- Leaking toilet
If the leak is coming from where the supply line enters the toilet, check the supply line connection and tighten it. Also make sure the fill valve assembly is secured to the bottom of the tank. If the supply line seems damaged, you’ll need to replace it.
A leak coming from the toilet base could be caused by loose bolts. If tightening the bolts doesn’t help, replace the bolts and gasket between the tank and toilet base. The last thing you could do is check for cracks in the tank. A cracked tank will need to be replaced.
A leak coming from where the toilet attaches to the floor may have loose mounting bolts. Make sure the toilet is properly positioned before tightening the bolts. You may need to uninstall the toilet, and inspect the bolts, toilet anchor flange, and the wax ring for signs of damage.
- Clogged toilet
If the toilet is clogged, turn off the water supply valve to prevent overflowing and use a plunger to dislodge the clog.
If the toilet isn’t flushing, inspect the flush handle and loosen or tighten it, as necessary. Then, check the flush lever lift arm and adjust or replace it. Also check the lift chain to make sure it isn’t tangled. Then check the flapper to make sure it’s sealing the flush valve opening. It may need to be replaced if it’s damaged or warped.
If you have a toilet that isn’t flushing completely, there may be too much slack in the lift chain. You may also need to adjust the fill level and make sure the flapper is properly installed.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule professional plumbing service, contact Tucker Hill today!