101: Common toilet issues

Toilets are a necessary and essential fixture in any home, but they can sometimes experience common issues that can be frustrating for homeowners. Fortunately, many of these issues can be easily fixed without the need for a professional plumber. Here’s a guide to help you troubleshoot and fix some of the most common toilet issues.

Running toilet

A running toilet is one of the most common toilet issues. To fix it, remove the lid from the tank and check the flapper. If it’s damaged or not sealing properly, replace it with a new one. If the flapper seems fine, check the water level in the tank. If it’s too high, adjust the float arm to lower the water level.

Weak flush

A weak flush can be caused by several factors. First, check to see if there’s an object blocking the toilet trapway. If there is, remove it with a plunger or a plumbing snake. If the trapway is clear, check the water level in the tank. If it’s low, adjust the float arm to raise the water level. If that doesn’t work, you may need to replace the flush valve or the fill valve.

Clogged toilet

A clogged toilet is a common issue that can be solved with a plunger. To use a plunger, place it over the toilet bowl drain and apply pressure by pushing and pulling the plunger up and down. If the clog persists, try using a plumbing snake to remove the obstruction. For more tips on unclogging drains, visit our post all about drains.

Leaking toilet

A leaking toilet can waste a significant amount of water and cause water damage to your home. To determine the source of the leak, add a few drops of food coloring to the tank and wait for a few minutes. If the water in the bowl changes color, you have a leak between the tank and the bowl. If the tank itself is leaking, you may need to replace the tank or give us a call.

In conclusion, many common toilet issues can be easily fixed with simple troubleshooting techniques. However, if you’re unsure about how to fix the problem or if it persists after attempting to fix it, don’t hesitate to contact a professional plumber for assistance.