People don’t usually give much thought to the toilets in their homes until something goes wrong. When issues do emerge, they have the potential to inflict considerable distress and even present health concerns. The most common problems are toilets that overflow, clog, or run continuously. If you own a home, it is crucial to understand these problems and how to fix them.
Clogs and Overflows
For homeowners, few things are more annoying than dealing with clogged or overflowing toilets. Overflushing the toilet, flushing non-flushable things like wipes or feminine hygiene products, and issues caused by minerals in hard water are all common causes of clogged toilets. Clogs are more likely to happen in older or low-flow toilets due to a lack of pressure that forces waste down the drain.
Overflowing toilets can ruin your bathroom’s flooring, walls, and possibly the ceiling below them if they are on an upper floor. Expensive repairs may be necessary if water seeps into building materials and warps wood or damages tiles. If the overflow includes raw sewage, it may bring dangerous bacteria and other diseases into your house, which can pose major health risks. Additionally, with larger toilet mishaps, mold growth becomes a concern because it may flourish in damp areas.
You can often deal with a minor clog by using a plunger. Don’t use chemical drain cleaners; they’re bad for your pipes and won’t solve the problem. First, ensure there’s enough water in the toilet to cover the plunger’s rubber cup, as this creates the necessary suction. You may have to add water. Next, place the plunger over the drain and ensure it forms a tight seal. Then, push the plunger up and down rapidly for about 15 to 20 seconds, maintaining the seal without lifting it off the surface. Quickly pull the plunger away after a few plunges to see if the clog has cleared. If the water drains normally, the clog has likely been dislodged. However, do not keep plunging if your efforts are not successful. Continuing could push the blockage deeper into your plumbing system. Unfortunately, stubborn clogs often require the expertise of a plumber.
Alternatively, when a toilet overflows, you need to turn off the water supply. Most toilets have a shut-off valve near the base of the toilet. After cutting the flow of water, contact a professional.
Constantly Running Toilet
A constantly running toilet is a common issue that occurs when water continues to flow into the toilet bowl even after the tank is full. This problem is usually caused by a worn-out or improperly sealed flapper valve. The flapper is responsible for regulating the water flow from the tank to the bowl, and if it doesn’t seal properly after each flush, water will keep running into the bowl.
Another potential cause is the float, which controls the water level in the tank. If the float is set incorrectly, it can either cause the tank to overflow or prevent it from filling properly, leading to continuous running. Additionally, a broken fill valve may allow water to keep flowing even when the tank is full.
A constantly running toilet can be more than an annoyance. It can significantly increase your water bill and wear out the toilet’s internal components over time. A running toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water a day.
To fix a running toilet, start by checking the flapper and float. These parts are relatively easy to replace, but if you’re unsure, consult a plumber for assistance.
Other Common Toilet Problems and What to Do
In addition to clogs and continuous running, many other toilet issues can cause a lot of inconvenience to your daily routine. It’s important to be familiar with these problems so that you can spot them before they become major issues and know when to call a professional.
Leaking Base
A broken wax ring seal at the toilet-to-pipe connection is a common culprit if you find water pooling at the base of your toilet. If water seeps into the subfloor from a leak in this area, it can cause structural damage to your bathroom floor.
To replace the seal, a plumber will first disconnect your toilet from your plumbing system and carefully remove it. They will then clean any old wax residue from the base of the toilet and the flange on the floor. After ensuring the area is clean, the plumber will install a new wax ring around the base of the toilet’s outlet. Finally, they’ll carefully reposition the toilet over the flange, secure it in place, and reconnect it to the plumbing. This process ensures a watertight seal, preventing future leaks and protecting your bathroom floor from potential damage.
Weak Flush
A toilet that does not flush all its contents can be frustrating and embarrassing for guests. Mineral buildup in the holes under the toilet bowl’s rim, low water levels in the tank, or a partially clogged siphon jet are common causes of this problem. Cleaning the jets and increasing the water level by adjusting the float are two examples of routine maintenance that can help remedy this issue.
Phantom Flushes
When a toilet flushes on its own, this is known as a phantom flush. This occurs when the flapper slowly lets water out of the tank into the bowl, which triggers the toilet to refill at regular intervals. Replacing the flapper is a common fix.
Bubbling Toilet
The presence of rising air bubbles in your toilet bowl during flushing may be an indication of a clog in the sewage line or a plugged vent pipe. If left unfixed, this can lead to improper drainage and unpleasant smells. A plumber will need to check your system to make sure there are no backups.
Loose Toilet Handle
When the toilet handle is shaky or loose, flushing becomes a real challenge. A loose fitting could cause this problem. Tighten the fitting inside the tank that secures the handle to get it working again.
Cracked Toilet Bowl or Tank
Toilet bowl or tank cracks can cause leaks, which can become worse with time. You may be able to use a waterproof sealant to stop the leak temporarily. However, the best solution is to replace the toilet.
Taking Care of Your Toilets
Clogs, leaks, and continuous running are frequent toilet issues that can cause damage and increase water bills if not addressed regularly through maintenance. You should always keep the toilet clean to prevent debris accumulation. Additionally, check the flapper, handle, and seals periodically for any indications of wear and tear. To keep clogs at bay, never flush anything other than toilet paper. If you take these preventative measures, your toilet will last longer, and you’ll save money on repairs.
Rosenberg Plumbing & Air is here to answer any questions you may have about common toilet problems. We also specialize in HVAC installations, ductwork services, indoor air quality solutions, septic tank maintenance, slab leak repairs and more. Contact us today to schedule a toilet repair in San Antonio, TX.
Tags: Toilet Repair, Toilet Replacement