Common Problems with Toilets

As one of the most used items in a household, toilets are bound to experience problems. Here are some common problems toilets have, as well as simple steps of how to fix the problem yourself.

One of the most common problems with toilets is a handle that sticks or is loose when you go to flush it. If you're experiencing this problem, remove the tank cover of your toilet and check the mounting nut. This is located on the inside of the toilet behind the handle. It may need tightening or cleaned, as lime can build up on it. The lime will come off fairly easy using a small brush and some vinegar. If the mounting nut does not appear to be the problem, check the chain that connects the flapper valve and the lift arm. The chain should have only about ½ inch of slack in it. If it's too loose remove a link or two of the chain or hook a different hole. Of course if the chain is broken replacing it will fix the problem.

Another common problem is the toilet will not flush. Again you will want to remove the tank cover. Check to make sure that all the pieces, the handle, lift arm, flapper valve, and chain, are connected and working. Check the handle to make sure it is not too loose or too tight and causing the toilet not to flush. You should check the lift arm to make sure it is not broken or bent. Also check that the lift arm and lift chain are connected and not out of adjustment, as this would cause the flapper valve to not open enough to flush the toilet.

Everyone at some point has had a toilet overflow or clog up on them. To solve this problem you might try using a plunger to loosen any clog that may be stuck, and should that not work you can use a snake to work down through the plumbing. If the problem is that the toilet keeps overflowing there is most likely a solid object in the toilet such as keys or a small toy. If more than one toilet is overflowing or clogging up in your house, it usually indicates a water line or septic system problem.

The toilet running constantly is also another common problem. Many people temporarily fix this by jiggling the handle. Most times the flapper valve needs replaced, as it is failing to seal the tank after flushing. That is why jiggling the handle temporarily fixes the problem. Replacing the flapper valve is an easy and cheap repair to make.

If you are experiencing a toilet problem different from those listed above or you need professional experience to dig out the toy soldier your toddler flushed away, contact a plumber who can solve any of your plumbing problems.