Tired of Two-Flushing?
You've probably heard that a new Colorado law took effect in September 2016, requiring all new toilet installations in the state to be certified as water-efficient and meet federal WaterSense standards. WaterSense certification ensures that plumbing fixtures use at least 20 percent less water. For toilets, this means using 1.28 gallons of water or less per flush, compared to the federally mandated maximum of 1.6 gallons per flush.
While low-flow toilets can save up to 13 billion gallons of water annually in Colorado alone, they can also present a few challenges. With less water available per flush, you might find yourself needing to flush more than once due to the reduced flushing power. This defeats the purpose of having a low-flow toilet and should be avoided. In this post, we'll explore some common issues with low-flow toilets and provide practical solutions to help you make the most of your water-efficient fixture.
Common Issues and Solutions for Low-Flow Toilets
Underfilled Toilet Tank
One common issue with low-flow toilets is an underfilled tank. When the tank doesn't have enough water, the flush may be weak, necessitating multiple flushes. To address this:
Check the Fill Valve Setting
Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for setting the fill valve. Ensure the water in the tank is at the correct level. Many tanks have a fill line to guide you. If there is no fill line, a good rule of thumb is to keep the water level about half an inch below the top of the overflow tube inside the tank.
Adjust the Float
If the water level is too low, adjust the float. This is often a simple process involving turning a screw on the fill valve to raise the water level in the tank.
Flapper Chain Tension
Another issue could be the tension on the flapper chain. If the chain is too loose, the flapper won't open fully when you flush, preventing the tank from emptying completely.
Here's how to fix it:
- Open the Tank - Remove the lid from the toilet tank.
- Check the Chain Slack - The chain should have just a little slack. If it's too loose, adjust the length by hooking the chain onto a different link.
- Test the Flush - After adjusting the chain, test the flush to ensure the flapper opens fully and the tank empties properly.
Mineral Buildup
Colorado is known to have hard water. This mineral buildup can affect the performance of low-flow toilets, particularly in areas with hard water. Over time, mineral deposits can clog the small holes under the rim of the toilet bowl, reducing water flow and flush efficiency.
Clean the Rim Holes
Use a wire hanger or a specialized cleaner to clear any mineral deposits from the holes.
Regular Maintenance
Regularly cleaning your toilet with a descaling cleaner can help prevent mineral buildup and maintain optimal performance.
Benefits of Low-Flow Toilets
Despite the occasional issues, low-flow toilets offer significant benefits:
Water Conservation
By using less water per flush, low-flow toilets help conserve water, which is crucial in areas prone to drought and water scarcity.
Cost Savings
Reduced water usage translates to lower water bills, providing long-term savings.
Environmental Impact
Conserving water helps protect Colorado's natural resources and reduces the strain on municipal water systems.
When To Call Grand Lake Plumbing & Heating For Help
If you're still experiencing issues with your low-flow toilet, or you have any other plumbing concerns, don't hesitate to contact Grand Lake Plumbing & Heating. Our team of experienced plumbers is here to help with all your plumbing needs. Whether it's a simple adjustment or a more complex repair, we're dedicated to providing top-notch service to ensure your plumbing systems operate efficiently and effectively.
