When your toilet won’t flush, it’s a frustrating problem to deal with. But don’t worry, most toilet flushing problems are easily fixable. In this article, we’ll look at seven common toilet flushing problems and the steps you can take to fix them.
Clogged Toilet
One of the most common toilet flushing problems is a clog. A clogged toilet happens when there is too much toilet paper, feminine hygiene products, or foreign objects in the toilet bowl. If you suspect that your toilet is clogged, use a plunger to clear the blockage. Place the plunger over the drain hole and use a pumping motion to create suction. Keep doing this until the water level in the bowl goes down. If the plunger doesn’t work, try using a toilet auger. Insert the auger into the drain hole and turn the handle clockwise until you feel resistance. Once you’ve cleared the blockage, flush the toilet to see if it’s working properly.
Broken Flapper
The flapper is the rubber seal at the bottom of the toilet tank that opens to let water flow into the bowl and closes to allow the tank to refill. If the flapper is broken, it won’t seal properly, and water will leak from the tank to the bowl, causing a weak flush. To fix this problem, turn off the water supply to the toilet, remove the lid on the tank, and inspect the flapper. If it is damaged or worn, replace it with a new one.
The Handle or Chain Is Disconnected
If the handle or chain inside the tank is disconnected, your toilet won’t flush. To fix this issue, open the tank and check if the chain is attached to both the flapper and the lever arm connected to the handle. If it’s disconnected, reattach it and test if the toilet will flush.
Malfunctioning Fill Valve
The fill valve is responsible for refilling the tank after a flush. If the valve is malfunctioning, it won’t refill the tank properly, leading to a weak flush or no flush at all. To fix this problem, turn off the water supply to the toilet, drain the tank, and inspect the fill valve. If it is damaged or worn, replace it with a new one.
The Jets Need Cleaning
The jets in the rim of the toilet bowl are responsible for creating a powerful flush. If they become clogged with mineral deposits, your toilet won’t flush properly. To fix this problem, use a toilet brush and cleaner to scrub around the jets and remove any buildup. You can also use a wire hanger or toothbrush to reach deeper into the jets if needed.
Low Water Level
A low water level in the toilet bowl can also cause flushing problems. This can happen if the water supply to the toilet is turned off, the tank water level is set too low, or the rim holes are clogged. To fix this problem, turn on the water supply to the toilet, adjust the tank water level to the correct level, and clean any clogged rim holes.
Damaged Trap
The toilet trap is the curved section of the toilet’s drainpipe that prevents sewer gas from entering the bathroom. If the trap is damaged, it can cause a weak flush or no flush at all. To fix this problem, you need to remove the toilet and replace the trap. This is a job best left to a professional plumber.
Need Help? Seek the Assistance of a Plumbing Professional
A toilet that won’t flush can be a major inconvenience, but most flushing problems are easily fixable with the right tools and knowledge. Whether it’s a clogged toilet, a broken flapper, or low water level, these issues shouldn’t stop you from enjoying a working toilet. With these simple steps, you can fix most toilet flushing problems and get back to your daily routine. Remember to always be safe and cautious when working with plumbing.
At Bodenheimer Plumbing Services, we understand that not everyone is comfortable fixing plumbing issues on their own. So if you need assistance with your toilet flushing problem, don’t hesitate to seek the help of a professional plumber. Our team has the expertise and experience to diagnose and fix any toilet flushing issue quickly and efficiently. Contact us today for reliable and affordable plumbing services.
