1. Clogged Toilet
After a running toilet, the most common toilet problem is the dreaded clog. Clogs are typically caused by flushing too much toilet paper or putting items down the toilet that should go in the trash can instead. This includes sanitary pads, q-tips, and even wipes that are labeled as “flushable”. Clogs tend to occur in homes with older plumbing systems, although newer low-flow toilets can experience clogs if you’re not careful with what you flush.
Sometimes a second flush can clear a clog out, but other times you’ll need to use a plunger to push the clog through the trap. Did you know there are plungers specifically designed for toilets? Make sure you use the right kind for plunging your toilets.
2. Overflowing Toilet
When a clog is severe enough that water pressure cannot push it through, an overflow is likely to occur. This can result in a very unpleasant mess. If a toilet plunger doesn’t clear the clog, a toilet snake is the next best option. A toilet snake can reach the drain by bending its way around the trap to break up the clog.
3. Running Toilet
Running toilets are a very common plumbing problem. Unfortunately, running toilets are often ignored and end up wasting a lot of water.
Running toilets are typically caused by one of these three problems:
- Old flapper
- Chain caught under the flapper
- Overflow
4. Weak Flush
A weak flush is caused by a lack of pressure or water flow in the pipe leading into the toilet. First, ensure that the toilet water valve is completely open. Next, check that the water level in a tank is not too low, which can reduce the power of the flush.
If these suggestions doesn’t fix the problem, call Grand Lake Plumbing and Heating for service.
5. Leaking toilet
Like a running toilet, a leaking toilet can waste a lot of water in a short period of time. You can check for a leaking toilet tank buy putting a few drops of food coloring in the tank. Wait about 10 minutes and check to see if the color of the water in the bowl has changed. If it has you have a leak that should be fixed.
