Toilets don't often give trouble if they are treated well, but there are some common toilet problems that occur from time to time. Knowing what they are and why they happen can help you save on emergency plumbing call outs and the associated costs. Besides, some of them are so easy to repair that you could do it in 10 minutes. Let's take a look!
1. Gurgling Sounds in the Sink and Tub When You Flush
If your sink, tub or shower make gurgling sounds when you flush, your toilet vent pipe is probably clogged, at least partially. You can repair this by dropping a securely attached flashlight attached to strong string down the vent pipe to see what's causing the obstruction. Use a garden hose to clear the clog and ask someone inside the house to look for leaks.
2. Weak Flush
A partial or full clog downstream from the toilet could cause the flush to be poor. Fill a large bucket with water and pour it into the toilet as quickly as you can without splashing. If this results in a more vigorous flush, it may not be a clog. However, water backing up into the bowl is a clear indication of a clog.
3. Dripping Sound With Repetitive Tank Filling
You flush, and hear the tank filling up. Then you hear dripping, and the tank fills again. Known as a syphon problem, it usually happens after a new tank fill valve has been installed. While the tank is being filled, water moves through a small flexible tube running from the bottom to the top by the toilet overflow tube. Sometimes the tube drops down into the overflow tube, causing water to syphon from the tank. Look for the clip that can be attached to the top of the overflow tube, and attach it.
4. The Tank Takes Too Long to Fill, or Double Flushes
If your toilet flushes twice, it could be because the level is set too high. Speak to your Anta Toronto plumber about it. On the other hand, if the tank takes forever to fill, it could be because the shut off valve under the tank is partially closed. Turn the valve to see if that fixes your problem.
5. Consistent Blockages, Clogs and Overflow
An overflowing toilet is one of the messiest plumbing problems ever. It usually signals a problem somewhere in the waste pipe. In most cases, it can be eliminated using a plunger, or a solution of vinegar and baking soda. However, if you're having regular issues with the same toilet, it may be time to get in touch with your favorite Toronto plumber.
6. Strong, Yet Partial Flush
If your toilet flushes strongly, but stops quickly - before it has done its job -, that might be an indication that the flapper might be waterlogged, and therefore dropping too fast. Lift the lid of the cistern and observe the flapper valve while it flushes. The flapper should stay up until most of the water has been drained out of the tank. If it doesn't, it may be time to install a new flapper.
Usually, it is best to call a professional plumber to do your common toilet repairs in order to avoid doing something wrong and ending up with an even bigger problem. Calling Anta Plumbing may just end up saving you hundreds of dollars in high water bills, and repair costs to your DIY mishaps.