Have You Checked On Your Toilet Lately?
Much like with the water heater, we don't give the toilet much thought either. They're always there, ready to do their job and we happily go on about our business. Until they aren't doing their job, or in the case of the toilet, working overtime.
In our piece today, we're going to cover the different types of toilet repairs you may have to deal with at some point. Like, what kind of problems occur with toilets? Thankfully, for most of the problems with a toilet, repairs are fairly simple, and most homeowners can do the repairs. Five of the most common problems are:
Problem One: The Running Toilet
A continuously running toilet is probably the top common problem for homeowners. There is nothing more annoying than the toilet running during the night, even if it hasn't been used. Not just the sound, but what that wasted water is doing to your water bill!
So, what causes toilets to run and how can you fix it? Usually, it is the flapper inside the tank that is the culprit. When the toilet is flushed, the flapper raises up and allows water to fill the toilet bowl. The flapper seals the water tank so that water is filling the toilet bowl when the toilet isn't being used.
There are kits available at hardware stores and home improvement stores that include a flapper. Simply replace the flapper and make sure the chain that holds it is the right length will stop the toilet from constantly running.
Problem Two: Water Running Too Long
Sometimes, after a flush, water keeps filling the tank, but there isn't water overflowing, so where is that water going? Remove the lid and you'll see that the water is flowing into the overflow tube, and yes, it is wasting the natural resource of water and increasing your water bill.
Check the fill valve first, you may be able to lower the water level for an easy toilet repair. The fill valve is inside the tank and turns the water off and on with each flush. This part deteriorates over time and needs to be replaced. If this doesn't stop the water from flowing into the overflow tube, you may need to replace the internal rubber gaskets.
What happens if you don't fix a running toilet? In addition to causing your water bill to increase more and more, it can start causing water damage to your home. Again, there are toilet repair kits that have gaskets and seals to fit most toilets and can be an easy toilet repair for a homeowner.
Problem Three: Toilet Leaking
If the toilet has water leaking, not only is that going to cause your water bill to increase, but there is also the possibility of water damage happening. However, detecting toilet water leaks can be hard to detect the exact issue before you can attempt any toilet repair steps. Possible problems can include the following:
- Pipes Corroded
- Bolts loosened or missing
- Cracked porcelain
- Water supply line
- Damaged or worn gaskets
- Connectors
- Broken or worn seals
Problem Four: The Toilet Handle
A loose-feeling toilet handle can often indicate a problem. When you flush the toilet, the handle should have some resistance as it pulls the chain connected to the flapper inside the tank.
Remove the tank lid and make sure the handle is firmly attached. Make sure the chain isn't too long between the handle and the flapper. Sometimes, a toilet repair is nothing more than replacing the chain. If you have a newer toilet, there may not be a chain inside the tank. In this case, you'll need to call a plumber to perform a toilet repair.
Problem Five: Toilet Doesn't Flush
When the toilet doesn't flush, it can be an uncomfortable situation. But because there aren't that many parts to a toilet, finding the culprit can be pretty easy.
Start by checking the chain and flapper, making sure they are properly connected to each other and the handle. Next, check there is water supplied to the toilet and there is water in the tank.
What would keep a toilet from flushing properly?
When a toilet isn't flushing correctly, or at all, there are 5 possibilities that could be causing this:
- There is a clog in the trap
- The flapper is worn out
- The chain and flapper need adjusting or replacing
- The rim jets are blocked rim jets
What causes toilets to stop working?
The most common reason a toilet quits working is that something was flushed down it that shouldn't have been and created a clog, or sometimes it could be caused by tree roots in the sewer line. If there isn't a clog, you'll need to call a plumber to inspect the sewer line for damage. So, what can you flush down a toilet? The three P's of human waste includes pee, poo and paper (toilet paper only).
Is fixing a toilet expensive?
If you can do your own toilet repair, the cost of your patience, time, and any parts needed, do not cost near the amount of a plumber. Yes, if you have to call a plumber, their rates can vary from hourly to a flat rate per job. Calling a plumber after hours or on holidays will typically cost 3 times more than standard rates.
What is the most important part of a toilet?
Hands down, (or bottom down), the toilet bowl is considered the most important part of a toilet. This has a simple design that is genius, allowing us to get rid of our human waste with ease.
Does Your Toilet Ever Expire?
In other words, when do you need to replace a toilet? There are 6 things that are telling you it is time to forgo another toilet repair and replace the unit:
- Constantly clogs
- Cracks in the porcelain.
- Multiple repairs.
- The toilet is over 10 years old.
- Damage to the surface.
- Mineral deposits build up.
If you believe that you might be in need of toilet repair or replacement, give our team a call today!
