Flush Away Your Troubles – Expert Toilet Repair

A constantly running toilet is not only annoying, but it can also waste hundreds of gallons of water every day. The issue is almost always caused by a faulty part inside the tank. The three main culprits are:

• A Worn-Out Flapper: This rubber seal at the bottom of the tank is the most common problem. If it’s old, warped, or dirty, it won’t create a tight seal, allowing water to constantly leak from the tank into the bowl.
• A Faulty Fill Valve: The fill valve is the tall column that refills the tank. If it’s broken or misaligned, it may not shut off properly when the water reaches the right level.
• An Incorrectly Set Float: The float (either a ball or a column) tells the fill valve when to stop. If it’s set too high, water will continuously drain into the overflow tube, causing the valve to run nonstop.

Yes. Any water leaking from the base of your toilet should be treated as a serious issue. This water is not clean, and it can seep into your subfloor, causing rot, mold, and significant structural damage over time.

What to do: Immediately stop using the toilet and shut off the water supply using the small valve on the wall behind it. The most common cause is a failed wax ring, which creates the seal between the toilet and the drain pipe. Replacing it requires detaching the entire toilet, which is a job best left to a professional to ensure it’s done correctly without causing further damage.

A good plunger is the right first step, but if it’s not working after a few determined attempts, stop. Continuing to force it can put stress on the toilet’s wax seal or even crack the porcelain. It also means the clog is likely located further down the drainpipe, beyond the reach of the plunger.

Do not use harsh chemical drain cleaners. They are often ineffective on these types of clogs and can cause serious damage to your home’s pipes. The next step is to call a professional plumber who can use a proper toilet auger (or “snake”) to clear the line safely and effectively.

A weak flush is frustrating and often leads to clogs. There are a few common reasons for poor flush performance:

• Low Water Level in the Tank: The toilet needs a specific amount of water to create siphoning pressure. If the float is set too low, the tank won’t fill enough for a powerful flush.
• Clogged Rim Jets: Tiny holes under the rim of the toilet bowl release water during a flush. Over time, mineral deposits can clog these jets, reducing the force of the water entering the bowl.
• A Flapper Closing Too Soon: If the flapper drops too quickly, not enough water is released from the tank for a full flush.

This is a great question that balances cost and long-term performance.

Consider REPAIRING if:

• The issue is a simple, inexpensive part like a flapper, fill valve, or handle.
• The toilet is relatively new (less than 10-15 years old) and has no history of major problems.
• The porcelain is in perfect condition, with no cracks or chips.

Consider REPLACING if:

• It requires frequent repairs for recurring issues.
• It has a crack in the tank or bowl (this is a non-negotiable reason to replace it immediately).
• It constantly clogs, even when the drain line is clear.
• It’s an old model (pre-1994) that uses 3.5+ gallons per flush. A modern, water-efficient toilet can save a significant amount on your water bill.