PlumbingOctober 30, 2023by mcmullen

Common Toilet Problems & How to Solve Them

Clogged Drain

So, your toilet is clogged. It happens. The first thing you should always do in this situation is reach for your trusty plunger (and if you don’t have one, get one). Position the plunger so it forms a tight seal over the toilet drain, then pump the handle up and down vigorously for about 30 seconds. Doing this a few times is enough to dislodge most toilet clogs. However, if you have a really stubborn blockage that the plunger can’t solve, it’s time to call in a plumber to clear the drain with specialized equipment.

To prevent clogged toilets from happening in the first place, pay attention to what you flush. Avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper and waste down the toilet. Yes, that even means you shouldn’t flush wipes, kitty litter, or other products that may advertise themselves as “flushable.” These products can still take a long time to break down and often create blockages.

Water Keeps Running

Is your toilet making a water running sound for more than a few seconds after flushing? This is often the result of a faulty flapper. Replacing the flapper is a simple and inexpensive process you can do yourself. Buy a new flapper at your local hardware store and follow the instructions for replacing your old one.

Water Level is Very High or Low

If you’ve noticed that the water level in your toilet is either very high or very low, there is probably an issue with your float ball. Inspect the float ball for signs of damage, such as if it is full of water. If the float ball is damaged, replace it. If the float ball is not damaged, try adjusting its positioning downward. If the problem persists after this, call a plumber.

Leaks

Leaks are a very common problem when it comes to plumbing. First, determine where the leak in your toilet is coming from. If the leak is at the base of the toilet, you probably need to have the wax ring replaced.If the leak is coming from the tank, you may need to adjust the refill tube and/or replace the washers in the inlet valve.

If the issues with your toilet require more than a simple DIY fix, call the pros at McMullen’s Refrigeration & Heating today! We are dedicated to quality work and outstanding customer service.

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