How to Troubleshoot Common Toilet Problems?

Among the very few imperative places in your household, the toilet room can be considered the first one. However, people feel gutted when toilet functional problems occur for them. Some of the common problems toilets arise on your property are toilet leaks, drainage blocks, etc. which cannot be easily fixed. But are you interested to know about how to repair toilet leaks and other common problems? You can check this article to find some helpful insights that may simplify your various toilet repair issues without the help of a plumber.

Understanding Toilet Parts and Components

A toilet is made up of these basic parts that if well installed help in running your bathroom’s plumbing system efficiently. When performing a do it yourself toilet repair or toilet part replacement it is useful to know what each part is called. Below is an overview of the main toilet parts, including explanations of their function and importance:

1. Flush Valve

• Location: It is a component that is fixed inside the toilet cistern at the base of the tank and links to the toilet bowl through a flush valve opening.


• Function: The flush valve regulates the amount of water in the cistern that will be released into the toilet bowl after the toilet has been flushed. In most cases, it is a rubber valve that opens, allowing water to flow and flush the toilet.


• Common Issues: A faulty flush valve can result in running water, leaks, or incomplete flushing.

2. Ballcock

• Location: This is normally set up inside the toilet cistern, although the float valve, as well as the ballcock, are sometimes combined. This consists of a valve that fairly controls the flow of water from the pipeline stream.


• Function: The ballcock regulates the flow of water supply into the cistern by opening or shutting the supply as the cistern is refilling after a flush. It operates on lifts that lift and stop water elevation as soon as the water level desired is achieved.


• Common Issues: The mechanical ballcock may be defective, or it may not open the cistern at the right time to allow in water and close to stop, or it may open and allow water to flood the toilet bowl.

3. Float

• Location: It is screwed to the ballcock and floats on the surface of the water in the toilet cistern tank.


• Function: The float manages the water level as it is placed inside the cistern. When the water in the flush has drained the float goes down, and the ballcock closes and lets in water to refill the closet. In other words, when the cistern is full the float rises and shuts off the ballcock or prevents the latter from allowing more water into the cistern.


• Common Issues: Float levels are very decisive on the quantity of water to be supplied in the cistern thus if the float levels are abnormal the cistern overfills or underfills causing useless flushing of water or wastage of water as the case may be.

4. Fill Valve

• Location: The fill valve is installed through the toilet cistern on the side nearer the flush valve but at a different position.


• Function: It is an essential component for it refills water in the toilet cistern whenever there is a flush. This is triggered by the float and as a result, checks that the cistern has the appropriate water level.


• Common Issues: An important component of the cistern is the fill valve that can either fail to fill the cistern at all or carry on filling the cistern even if water is wasted.

5. Overflow Tube

• Location: The toilet cistern includes an overflow tube positioned at the centre of the tank; it is from the area of the flush valve.


• Function: When the water level in the cistern rises to where it may fill up beyond the marked level, the overflow tube drains this excess water straight into the toilet bowl. In addition to its primary function, it also has an anti-flooding function.


• Common Issues: Depending on the correct cutoff level set on the fill valve, the amount of water may be too high and overflow into the overflow tube and wet the toilet bowl.

6. Tank-to-Bowl Gasket

• Location: This gasket is located around the region where the cistern is fitted to the toilet bowl.


• Function: It fixes the cistern and the bowl together so that it can minimize cases of leakage.


• Common Issues: Eventually, the tank-to-bowl gasket becomes weak and shrinks, and any water that is between the cistern and the toilet bowl leaks causing water damage.

7. Toilet Handle (Trip Lever)

• Location: The handle in projecting form is located on the outer part of the tank mostly as it appears at the right front side of the car.


• Function: The handle is that part of the toilet through which you operate the flushing of its water tank or cistern. Specifically, to elaborate, in detail, when the need arises, it lifts the flush valve and releases water into the bowl from the tank.


• Common Issues: While in use rubber can develop cracks and the handle at the beginning may get out of phase or break while the metal part including the lever which is inside a tank may unscrew and make the flush work in ways that are not required.

8. Flapper

• Location: This sits the flapper over the flush valve that is found at the base of the toilet tank.


• Function: The flapper is the seal to the flush valve and retains water in the tank for flushing. The flapper is designed to lift up when pressure is applied through the handle through which water is allowed to flow in the bowl through the tank.


• Common Issues: A common problem with a toilet is when the flapper is old or not sealing properly, the toilet will continue running or not flush at all.

9. Wax Ring

• Location: The wax ring is located beneath the bottom of the toilet and above a flange, a pipe fitting on the floor, which connects the toilet to the drain pipe.


• Function: One of its major advantages is that it affords a tight closure between the toilet and the drain and thus does not give room for water stains at the base of the toilet.


• Common Issues: A toilet can have a water leak at the base of the toilet if the wax ring is damaged or degraded, water damage may occur, and the room may stink.

10. Toilet Bowl

• Location: The two key components are the toilet bowl and the seat you sit on while the bowl is directly fitted to the waste drain.


• Function: The bowl takes water which is used for drinking, washing and taking wastes. When you pull the handle, or push the button… or depress the handle, the water in the tank washes the waste down in the drain.


• Common Issues: The bowl may have cracks, become clogged, or may have deposits of minerals that will hinder its proper functioning.

11. Flush Lever Chain:

• Location: The chain links the flush lever (handle) with the flush valve or a flapper valve.


• Function: On top of that, the chain pulls up the flapper when you push the flush lever so that the water in the tank will flow into the bowl.


• Common Issues: The chain may elongate, contract or even snap so that the toilet will not flush correctly.

12. Toilet Tank

• Location: The toilet tank is the upper part of the toilet and contains the water needed to flush the toilet.


• Function: Its principal function is to hold water and discharge water into the toilet bowl when flushed. It has most of its parts stated earlier such as the fill valve, the flush valve as well as the float.


• Common Issues: Loose or damaged internal compartments or other internal apparatus such as the fill valve or ballcock may cause leaks or poor flushing.

Things To Know Before You Begin Toilet Repairs

Before you begin toilet repairs, there are several essential things you should know to ensure the process goes smoothly and safely. Working on toilet plumbing can be tricky, so being well-prepared can save you time, money, and potential headaches. Here are some key points to consider:

• Safety First: Always prioritize safety. Before starting any repairs, turn off the water supply to the toilet. There is usually a shut-off valve located near the base of the toilet or along the water supply line. This prevents any accidental flooding or water damage.


• Identify the Issue: Diagnose the problem correctly before attempting any repairs. Common toilet issues include clogs, leaks, constantly running water, weak flush, and a loose toilet seat. Knowing the specific problem will help you address it effectively.


• Gather Necessary Tools: Ensure you have the right tools for the job. Typical tools for toilet repairs may include a plunger, a toilet auger, an adjustable wrench, screwdrivers, rubber gloves, and towels or rags.


• Use the Right Parts: If you need to replace any parts, make sure to use the correct ones. Toilets can vary in model and design, so matching the right parts is crucial for proper functioning.


• Read the Instructions: If you're using a repair kit or replacement parts, read the instructions carefully before proceeding. Following manufacturer guidelines will ensure you do the repairs correctly.


• Inspect the Toilet Flange: The toilet flange is a crucial component that connects the toilet to the floor and the drainpipe. If it's damaged or broken, it can cause leaks or instability. Check its condition before proceeding with repairs.


• Avoid Over Tightening: When reassembling parts, be cautious not to overtighten bolts and connections. Over-tightening can lead to cracks in the toilet or other damage.


• Test Before Finalizing: After completing the repairs, turn on the water supply and test the toilet thoroughly. Check for leaks, proper flushing, and stability.

10 Common Toilet Issues You Can Fix Without a Plumber

1. Toilet Leakage

Toilet leaks include the leakage of toilet bowls, cisterns and pipes connecting both of them. There is a way for you to find toilet leaks and that is to add food colour to your toilet flush water tank. Then, post that if you notice this colour water leaking down the toilet flush tank or toilet bowl, you can locate where your toilet has leaking issues.

• If the reason for this occurrence is the absence of proper fitting of flappers in your valve seat, then you need to make sure this isn't happening anymore by adjusting the flappers into a tight position.


• If your toilet leak arises because of cracks in the valve seat, or a failed gasket, then you have to repair the valve seat and go for a replacement of the gasket.


• Make sure screws are adjusted tightly in the valve seat as this helps you resolve the situation better.

2. Phantom Flush

If you find spontaneous refilling in your bathroom, do not worry as it is a common issue your toilet will be facing. After this, when a toilet flushes randomly by itself, it is known as a phantom flush and this slowly starts leaking. The reason for phantom flushing is either damage to the flapper or the flapper seat.

• If your toilet flushes on its own, the flapper might not be sealing properly. Adjust the chain or replace the flapper if needed.


• You can install a dual-flush toilet cistern or retrofit your existing toilet with a dual-flush conversion kit. Dual-flush systems offer a partial flush for liquid waste and a full flush for solid waste, effectively reducing water wastage caused by phantom flushes.

3. Blocked Toilet

A few consequences of blocked toilets are sewage backup, clogs in drainage lines, and no movement in the toilet bowl. The reason for this may be the flushing of toys, tissues, and paper towels down the toilet.

• You can repair the blocked toilet by using a plunger. Insert the snake into the toilet drain and twist or push it until you encounter the obstruction. Continue turning or pushing to break it apart.


• If the plunger doesn't work, consider using a toilet auger. Insert the auger into the drain and use the crank to maneuver the cable down and break up the blockage.

4. Slow Flushing

This issue arises because of complete or partial clogs of holes present under the toilet bowl's rim. The problem can also be in the cistern.

• You can handle this situation by taking the help of a curved wire as you can use it to clear away the clogs by poking. This way, you can get rid of debris and grime that built up in the rim.


• If the problem is in the cistern, check the fittings of the fill valve, flapper, and chain are properly adjusted and functioning. Adjust or replace any worn-out components to restore efficient flushing performance.

5. Noisy Toilet

Many Australian homeowners face the common issue of excessively noisy toilets. This disturbance, often caused by faulty fill valves or worn-out components, can disrupt household tranquillity and requires timely attention.

If your toilet is making a loud noise after flushing, the fill valve might need adjustment or replacement. You can check the condition and take the required action.

6. Toilet Won't Flush

The toilet refuses to flush, leaving the water and waste stagnant in the bowl. Despite attempts, the flush mechanism seems unresponsive.

If the flush lever feels loose, the chain might be disconnected. Reconnect it to the flush lever arm. Check if the water supply valve behind the toilet is fully open. If not, turn it clockwise to ensure proper water flow and try flushing again. If the issue persists, there might be a clog in the drain; consider using a plunger or a drain auger to clear the blockage.

7. Water Keeps Rising

The water level in the toilet bowl continues to rise, defying attempts to flush away the issue. This persistent problem raises concerns of a potential clog or malfunction in the plumbing system.

• If water keeps rising and threatens to overflow, take off the lid and close the flapper manually to stop water from entering the bowl.


• Grab a plunger with might, apply to plunge action just right, and clear the clog below.

8. Leaky Flush Handle

The toilet's flush handle is experiencing a leak, causing continuous dripping water and potential water wastage. This issue not only leads to an annoying sound but can also contribute to higher water bills over time.

If the flush handle is leaking, the flapper chain might be tangled or too long. Adjust it so the flapper seals properly.

9. Broken Flush Lever

The flush lever has become dysfunctional, rendering the toilet unable to flush properly. It requires immediate repair to restore its functionality.

If the flush lever breaks, you can usually find a replacement lever at a hardware store and follow the instructions to install it.

10. Toilet Seat Issues

Toilet seat issues commonly involve loose or unstable seats that require frequent readjustment, leading to inconvenience and discomfort for users.

If the toilet seat is loose, tighten the bolts connecting it to the bowl. If the seat itself is damaged, replace it.

Know When To Call A Toilet Plumber

While some toilet repairs are DIY-friendly, others may require professional assistance, especially if you are unsure or uncomfortable with the task. Complicated repairs or issues with the main plumbing line should be handled by licensed plumbers. If you're unsure about any step, it's better to seek professional help to avoid causing further damage or risking your safety.

Common Myths About Toilet Repairs

Fixing a toilet is a process that can be quite frustrating but there are so many myths out there about what does work and what does not. Here are the most prevalent myths so that you can spend less time and money worrying about them.

Reality: While using bleach will certainly clean up the parts of your toilet tank, it does not remove the possibility of the toilet leaking. It makes the rubber seals and components in the tanks worse off having a worse scenario over time.

Reality: It is highly advisable and successful when used for the removal of shallow soft blockages such as that created by toilet paper or waste. However, they do not solve severe obstructions that happen due to debris that does not degrade, tree roots, and inaccessible pipes.

Reality: As much as a toilet may need a total overhaul, most of the time all that is necessary is a part replacement or some tweaking.

Reality: There are a few things that could produce a slow flush, such as a low water level in the tank, a problem with the flushing unit, or air trapped in the pipework. How it does not always mean that there is a clog.

Reality: A leaking toilet might be making a very loud sound while running, which takes a lot of water for a few months and greatly increases your water bill. They always provide a hint of a problem with the flapper or the flush valve that needs to be corrected.

Reality: Toilet paper and waste products only should be flushed. For one, many flush things that are labelled as ‘flushable’ such as wipes, cotton swabs, and even food debris.

How to Prevent Toilet Problems Before They Start?

Most people think nothing of using toilets every day, but few really pay much attention to them until they are clogged. Fortunately, most of the toilet troubles can be prevented with some degree of diligence, as we will explain further down. Here are some habits that can help you prevent toilet troubles before they start:

1. Avoid flushing Non-Degradable Items Into the Lavatory:

• What to Avoid: You should not flush paper tissues, wet wipes (even if the labels state that they are ‘flushable’), sanitary towels, cotton wool, or any other hygiene products. Even if there is a symbol on the packaging that indicates it is safe to flush, it is not always safe for your plumbing.


• Why It Matters: These products do not dissolve in water and can clog your pipes considerably, leading to expensive water leak repair services and possible drain plumber visits to fix the blockages.

2. Regular Cleaning:

• What to Do: Scrub the inside of the toilet bowl as well as the outer components that make up the toilet. Spray a mild toilet cleaner to clean mineral deposits and stains, then clean the outside of the tank and the seat as well.


• Why It Matters: Regular cleaning helps maintain the toilet's functionality. Neglecting this task can cause mineral buildup that disrupts the flushing mechanism and may eventually require a plumber repair service to fix leaks or performance issues due to clogged components.

3. Check and Maintain the Flapper:

• What to Do: Your flapper controls the flow of water from the tank to the bowl. Over time, the rubber or plastic part of the flapper can wear out, causing the toilet to run constantly, which leads to higher water bills and wasted water.


• Why It Matters: A faulty flapper can result in continuous water flow, which wastes water and leads to higher utility bills. If left unchecked, this issue could turn into a bigger water leak repair job.

4. Test the Water Level:

• What to Do: The water level in the tank should be about one inch below the level of the overflow tube. If the water level is too high or low, the toilet may not flush properly, wasting water or leaving waste behind.


• Why It Matters: Proper water level management ensures efficient flushing and reduces water wastage. If the issue persists, a plumber repair service may be needed to adjust the tank’s mechanism.

5. Inspect the Toilet Tank for Leaks:

• What to Do: Use the food colouring leakage test to check for leaks. Add a few drops of food colouring to the tank and wait for about 15 minutes. If the bowl turns colour, there is a slow leak in the tank.


• Why It Matters: Leaks can go unnoticed until they start affecting water bills or the flushing performance of the toilet. Water leak repair is crucial to avoid wasting both water and money.

6. Use the Right Amount of Toilet Paper:

• What to Do: Avoid using excessive toilet paper, as it can cause choking in the drainage system. Use only the necessary amount to prevent clogs.


• Why It Matters: Clogs are one of the most common toilet issues, often caused by excessive use of toilet paper. Over time, these clogs can lead to blockages that require the attention of a drain plumber.

Your Monthly Toilet Maintenance Checklist

• Look at the water supply connection and the base for any sign of a leak and at the tank for any sign of water damage.


• Wash the toilet parts, handle and flush valve.


• Check the wobble bolts that fix the toilet to the floor and tighten these bolts.


• Examine the water supply pipeline to see if it’s rusty or if there are signs of leakage.


• Check to make sure nobody can wobble the toilet seat and that it closes properly on its own when down.


• Take off mineral deposits from the tank and the flush valve assembly.


• Look at the water level indicator and simply tweak the float if the water level is off.


• Check the condition of the flush valve to see whether the water that passes through the valve is leaking.


• Make sure that the flapper valve shuts tightly in order not to let a lot of water run through the overflow pipe.


• On the toilet bowl ensure you look for cracks or chips as these are signs of leaking.

Conclusion

Do not delay in helping yourself to fix the toilet issues. If you have any of the above-mentioned issues, you can use the given solutions. For complex issues, you can consider plumbers.