Toilet failing to flush can be a real pain in the rear. But before you call a plumber for toilet repair, there are a few things you can check yourself. This helpful list will walk you through some simple troubleshooting tips to get your toilet flushing like new again. However, if the problem can’t be resolved, you can always reach out to Kettering Plumbing & Drain for excellent toilet installations.
What’s the Water Level in the Toilet Bowl Supposed to Be?
If the water level in your toilet bowl is low, it could be why your toilet isn’t flushing properly. Try adding more water to the bowl until it reaches the proper level. This can help you save on the extra cost of toilet replacement. Fortunately, checking the water level is easy. Simply open up your toilet tank lid and take a look inside. The lowest point of this line indicates where the water should be inside your toilet bowl. Then, you will need to pour in a bit more water until it reaches the correct level. Easy, right?
Is the Toilet Flapper Functioning Properly?
The toilet flapper is a rubber seal that covers the hole at the bottom of the tank. If this seal is damaged or worn, it can cause leaks and prevent the toilet from flushing properly. Inspect the flapper for any damage and replace it if necessary. This can be done by simply removing the old flapper and installing a new one.
To check the toilet flapper:
- Start by turning off the water supply to your toilet at the shutoff valve.
- Flush the toilet to drain any remaining water from the tank.
- Remove the lid of your toilet tank and look for the rubber seal on the bottom of the tank.
- Check for any signs of wear or damage, such as cracks or holes in the seal.
- Then replace if necessary.
Are the Toilet Bowl Rim Holes Clogged?
The rim holes around the toilet bowl’s edge can become clogged with minerals and debris over time. This can prevent water from flowing into the bowl and cause low flush performance. Use a toothbrush or a small brush to clean any debris from the rim holes. You can also use vinegar to help break down and remove any mineral buildup. With regular cleaning, your toilet bowl rim holes will stay clean and continue to work efficiently.
How Do You Adjust the Toilet Float?
A toilet float is a buoyant object that sits in the toilet tank’s water. Its purpose is to signal to the fill valve when to turn off the flow of water. If the float is set too low, it can prevent enough water from entering the bowl and cause low flush performance. If this seems to be the issue, adjust the float according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This way, you can ensure optimal flushing performance.
Whether your toilet is new or old, it’s important to maintain the fill valve and toilet float for optimal flushing performance. Keeping these components clean and in proper working order allows homeowners to save money on their water bills and prevent costly repairs.
Is Your Toilet Leaking?
Leaks in the tank or bowl can also cause low flush performance. Inspect your toilet for any signs of leaks and repair them as necessary. This way, you can be sure that all the water in the tank is actually making its way into the bowl when you flush.
How Can You Tell If You Need to Snake the Drain Pipe?
If your toilet is still not flushing properly after trying all of the above troubleshooting tips, you may need to snake the drain pipe. This will clear any blockages that may be preventing water from flowing through. For this, you might need to seek the services of a local plumber like Kettering Plumbing & Drain.
Do You Need to Replace the Toilet Bowl Gasket?
If your toilet bowl is leaking, it may be time to replace the bowl gasket. This rubber seal sits between the bowl and tank and prevents leaks. Replacing the gasket is a relatively simple repair and can be done by most do-it-yourselfers.
Do You Need to Replace the Toilet Flush Valve?
If your toilet still isn’t flushing properly, it may be time to replace the flush valve. This is a more involved repair and should only be done by qualified professionals like Kettering Plumbing & Drain.
Do You Need to Replace the Toilet Tank Gasket?
If your toilet tank is leaking, it may be time to replace the tank gasket. This rubber seal sits between the tank and bowl and prevents leaks. Replacing the gasket is a more involved repair that should be done by a qualified professional.
When Should You Call a Plumber for a Toilet that Doesn’t Flush?
Nevertheless, if you’ve tried all of the above troubleshooting tips and your toilet still isn’t flushing properly. In that case, it’s time to call a 24-hour plumber like Kettering Plumbing & Drain. We will be able to diagnose the problem and make the necessary repairs.
At Kettering Plumbing & Drain, we offer different plumbing solutions ranging from plumbing repair, grease trap cleaning, sump pump installation, sewer cleanout, drain cleaning service, and sewer line repair. Call us today at (937) 764-3788, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!