A problem with the toilet can be a real pain for any homeowner. Fortunately, determining what is wrong with a toilet that isn’t functioning properly is not a pain. Here are a few tips for troubleshooting problems with a toilet.
How a toilet works
There are basically two parts to a toilet – the tank and the bowl. The bowl is the business end – so to speak – and sits directly on the floor. The tank sits above the bowl and holds water.
The whole contraption is fairly simple. Flushing the toilet opens a valve in the tank and allows the water to rush into the bowl, thanks to gravity. This rush of water pushes the waste in the bowl through a toilet trap then into the sewer lines. The toilet is plumbed into the home’s water supply line which allows the tank and the bowl to refill with water after each flush.
Common problems with a toilet
Minor problems with a toilet can be fixed by a homeowner but the first step is figuring out just what the problem is. Most commonly, homeowners run into a leaking toilet bowl, a toilet that will not flush properly – usually due to some type of a clog or a toilet that runs constantly.
Leaking toilet bowl
A leaking toilet bowl requires the most effort to correct, but it can be done. A leaking bowl occurs most often due to a wax ring that is not sealing correctly. This wax ring is located underneath the toilet and on top of the sewer line. It can become damaged over time. This damage usually occurs due to a toilet that is loose and rocks slightly when used.
The leaking will usually be noticed around the base of the toilet. If you notice this area is constantly wet, has a strong urine smell or is discolored, a faulty wax ring may be your culprit. A do-it-yourselfer can replace a wax ring easily enough.
To replace the wax ring, you need to purchase the wax ring ahead of time. Turn off the water supply to the toilet then unhook the water supply line. Next loosen the bolts that are holding the toilet in place.
Once the bolts have been loosened the toilet can be pulled straight up and lifted off of the sewer drain. While wearing gloves, remove and discard the old wax ring. The new ring can now be put into place the toilet replaced. Push the toilet down firmly to seal the wax ring correctly. Tighten the bolts – enough to keep the toilet from rocking back and forth. Be careful not to over-tighten the bolts.
Toilet won’t flush properly
How frustrating is it to push that toilet handle and nothing happens? This usually occurs due to an issue with the float chain and flapper valve. The chain will occasionally become unhooked from the valve or float mechanism. When the handle is pushed – then the valve doesn’t open.
This is an easy fix and can be done by removing the lid from the tank and reattaching the chain to the float or the valve. A broken chain will need to be replaced and will require a visit to the local hardware store.
A clogged toilet can usually be fixed with a handy dandy plunger. Often alternating between plunging and flushing will clear a clogged toilet. If a plunger won’t get the job done, then you will probably need to call a plumber
A toilet that runs constantly
If you flush your toilet and it continues to run, it’s also running up your water bill. This is a common problem and can be fixed by a trip to your hardware store. A toilet that continues to run after flushing is most often due to a valve that isn’t closing properly. The valve will continue to let water out of the tank into the bowl and allow the tank to keep filling up. Over time the valve can become warped and worn out which causes it to no longer seal properly.
Turn off the water supply, flush the toilet to empty the tank then remove the valve. Take it to your local hardware store to get the correct replacement then hurry back home and install the new valve. A replacement valve usually costs less than five dollars.
Use safety precautions and all a professional
When doing any type of plumbing project, always take proper safety precautions, wear gloves and call a professional if the job you are trying to accomplish turns out to be more than you are able to handle.
Source:
http://www.doityourself.com/stry/repairtoiletproblems
