Dealing with toilet issues is a common yet frustrating experience for homeowners. Here, we discuss the top five common toilet repair issues and provide you with some DIY solutions to address these problems. However, if you're not comfortable with handling these repairs yourself, it's always best to consult with a professional plumber, like the experts at Moe Plumbing Services.
1. Constantly Running Toilet
A constantly running toilet is not only annoying, but it can also waste a significant amount of water. This issue is usually caused by a faulty flapper or fill valve. To fix this issue:
- Turn off the water supply to the toilet.
- Remove the tank lid and inspect the flapper. If it's damaged or warped, replace it.
- If the flapper is in good condition, check the fill valve. If it's not shutting off properly, it may need to be replaced.
2. Weak or Partial Flush
A weak or partial flush can be caused by several issues, such as low water level in the tank, a clogged flush valve, or a clogged siphon jet. To address this problem:
- Check the water level in the tank. If it's too low, adjust the float to increase the water level.
- Inspect the flush valve for any debris or buildup that could be restricting the flow of water. Clean or replace the valve if necessary.
- Examine the siphon jet for any blockages and clean it out if needed.
3. Toilet Bowl Slow to Fill
If your toilet bowl is slow to fill after flushing, it could be due to a partially closed shut-off valve, a clogged fill valve, or a kinked water supply line. To fix this issue:
- Check the shut-off valve and ensure it's fully open.
- Inspect the fill valve for any debris or buildup that could be restricting the flow of water. Clean or replace the valve if necessary.
- Examine the water supply line for any kinks or damage, and straighten or replace it if needed.
4. Toilet Leaking at the Base
A toilet leaking at the base can cause water damage to your floor and is usually a sign of a failed wax ring. To replace the wax ring:
- Turn off the water supply to the toilet and disconnect the water supply line.
- Remove the toilet from the floor by unscrewing the nuts holding it in place.
- Scrape away the old wax ring and replace it with a new one.
- Reinstall the toilet and reconnect the water supply line.
5. Toilet Clogs
Toilet clogs are a common issue and can usually be resolved with a plunger. However, if the clog persists, you may need to use a toilet auger or consult with a professional plumber. To use a toilet auger:
- Insert the auger into the toilet bowl and crank the handle to break up the clog.
- If the clog is not cleared, repeat the process until the water drains properly.
While these DIY solutions can help you address common toilet repair issues, more complex problems may require the expertise of a professional plumber. The team at Moe Plumbing Services is available to help you with all your plumbing needs in Glendale, CA. With over 90 years of experience, you can trust us to provide reliable and efficient service. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.