Common Toilet Problems and How to Fix Them

Common Toilet Problems and How to Fix Them

If there is one thing you want to function properly, it is your toilet! The consequences of a broken toilet are just too unpleasant to contemplate. But let’s pretend this is the circumstance you’re in. We’re here to help you through the process of quickly getting your bathroom toilet running and functional again – after all, this isn’t something you want to put off any longer than necessary! Follow our advice to solve common toilet problems and get your bathroom up and running in no time.

Common Toilet Problems and Solutions

Toilets are an essential part of our daily lives, but common issues can disturb our routines. In this post, we’ll look at common toilet problems and offer simple ways to correct them. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or a beginner, this compact reference will help you tackle common toilet problems with ease, ensuring your bathroom remains functional and hassle-free. Let’s get started with toilet troubleshooting and solutions.

Toilet not flushing

Imagine this scenario: You’ve just finished using the Toilet, and you grab for the flush handle, expecting the typical whooshing sound of water carrying away your waste. However, to your dismay, nothing happens. The toilet does not flush. It’s a scenario that can cause annoyance and even shame, but don’t worry; in this article, we’ll look at the reasons why toilets fail to flush and give simple solutions to get your toilet running again.

Analysing the Problem

A broken toilet can be a massive undertaking. Perhaps no room in the house is more practically necessary than the toilet, so when it fails, it can cause quite a stir! However, aside from unpleasant noises and unattractive overflowing, many toilet problems can be rather easy to fix. This detailed guide will assist you in diagnosing the problem and resolving it with a little do-it-yourself.

The first step is analysing the problem to identify the source of the issue.  Flush the toilet and see what happens. Does nothing happen, or does the toilet swirl but then stop? Swirling indicates that the water from the tank is not moving quickly enough into the basin. You might be able to flush the toilet if you put 1-1/2 gal of water in a bucket and pour it into the bowl, but you’ll need to make sure the lines under your toilet can handle it. There may be simple common causes why the flow is reduced. You can spot the holes where the water enters the bowl by using a small mirror. This area can quickly become caked with debris, which can be removed with a drill bit. Alternatively the flush diaphragm can be split – it is a component of the toilet syphon, the most common flushing mechanism. The more you flush, the larger the split becomes, and occasionally it simply needs to be replaced. For individuals with some toilet knowledge, this can be a do-it-yourself project; otherwise, consult a professional.

Clogged vents can be rather unpleasant! Again, make sure these aren’t clogged with residue and causing your toilet to refuse to flush.

How to Repair a Toilet Flush

On other occasions, a hard object may be covering your toilet and preventing it from flushing. To find it and get rid of it once and for all, you may need to remove the toilet and examine underneath it. It is possible to do it yourself, but if you have any worries, it is advisable to contact a plumber who can take care of things for you. They’ll find it a relatively quick job. After all, they are professionals who can handle such regular matters quickly and cheaply. If you are replacing a toilet it is also likely wise to get a professional to plumb the new toilet. Sometimes the money is worth it for the piece of mind it provides, and you can rest assured that the task will be done correctly.

Broken Toilet

Running water in the toilet

If you have a toilet that won’t stop running, firstly, make sure there is water in the tank at the water line. If there is insufficient water, the toilet will run continuously. Check that the fill valve is fully turned on, and if not, turn it on completely. Remove the top of your toilet tank to reveal a floating arm that you may elevate. If the water flow ceases when you lift the arm, the problem is that the water inside the tank is not rising high enough to switch off, thus the pipes are compensating with more water, resulting in the overflow. This can be a difficult problem because the cumulative water waste of a constantly running toilet can be enormous. Check to see whether the floating arm is misplaced and that it does not catch when you flush the toilet.

Assembly of the Ballcocks

Determine whether you have a sealed plastic ballcock or a metal ballcock early on. After you’ve switched off the mains water supply and flushed the toilet, unscrew the floating arm. If the predecessors are old or broken, you can remove the complete assembly from the overflow tube and replace them with newer, more effective assemblies that will allow the water to properly refill the tank after flushing.

The toilet seat is broken

Not all toilet problems are caused by internal issues. Some are quite evident! Seats that are broken or cracked are quite common and, thankfully, not too problematic. You can easily remove a damaged loose or wiggly toilet seat and inspect the connection between the seat and the lid of the bowl. You can now replace your old broken item with a brand new seat. All you have to do now is make sure you get the proper size and start installing!

Clogged Toilet

Some words will strike fear into the heart of many a man or woman: my toilet is blocked. It’s always going to happen at the worst possible time, it’s not a great job, but someone has to do it, and if you’re reading this, that someone is most likely you. If you don’t mind getting your hands dirty, you don’t need to hire a plumber. Instead, you can save the money and take control of the situation. It’s not a glamorous job, but it has to be done!

To avoid germ exposure, you’ll require sterile rubber gloves. If your toilet overflows, paper the floor to lessen the damage. To acquire some breathing distance from hazardous substances, open a window or use ventilation.

As is customary, turn off your water supply before beginning work. Have a toilet plunger available that is large enough to cover the entrance at the very bottom of your bowl. Continue plunging after adding a few cups of water to the bowl as needed. Attach the suction cup to the aperture at the bottom of the bowl and pump evenly and forcefully. A gurgling sound and pressure build-up will be heard in the pipe. You can try flushing now to check whether the problem has been resolved. Simply turn off the water supply before the toilet begins to overflow!

How to Fix a Clogged Toilet

Pouring a pot or half a bucket of hot tap water from a considerable height into the bowl will help to remove the clog. Water dropped from a height has the potential to dissolve the blockage or, in rare cases, completely clear it. Boiling water, on the other hand, can break porcelain and leave you with more difficulties than you started with. If you crack the toilet you might need to replace the entire toilet so be sure not to risk damage to the toilet base by boiling water.

Plunging an obstacle can be a wonderful workout. Larger plungers allow you to apply more force if necessary. You want the plunger to be large enough to fit easily into your toilet without becoming stuck. Create a firm and gradual motion, and add water as needed to lubricate the operation.

Other Solutions

If plunging does not work and the obstacle is close to the surface, a wire coat hanger can be used as an option. Because of the coat hanger’s narrowness, you can snake it into the tube to loosen the clog.

A wet-dry vacuum can be a lifesaver. Don’t use a regular vacuum cleaner under any circumstances. Water can only be removed with a wet-dry vacuum.

If you have the time, you can use an enzyme product to soak your toilet overnight. This item will only work on organic waste clogging your toilet, therefore if you know the source of your problems is a child’s toy or a hairbrush, this won’t help! Preparing the mixture helps break down any difficult residue that is clogging your toilet. You can also use good old-fashioned baking soda.

Summary – Common Problems and How to Fix them

Common toilet problems can disrupt our daily lives, but armed with the knowledge and solutions provided in this guide, you can become your own bathroom troubleshooter. From issues with the toilet bowl and tank to concerns with valves, flush handles, loose toilet seats, clogged toilets and water levels, we’ve covered the most frequent culprits behind a defective toilet. Remember, it’s often the simple fixes that save you both time and money. So, before reaching for the phone to call a plumber, take a moment to check the flapper, adjust the float, or tighten the toilet handle. With a little know-how and some basic tools, you can resolve many toilet repair issues on your own, ensuring a smoothly functioning bathroom for you and your household. However, if the problem persists or if you’re uncomfortable with more complex plumbing problem repairs, don’t hesitate to seek the expertise of a professional plumber. With these insights, you’re well-equipped to maintain a trouble-free toilet and a more peaceful bathroom environment.