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Common Toilet Repairs
Home » Plumbing » Toilet Repair » Common Toilet RepairsHow to Stop a Toilet from Running
If your toilet is running, it could be for one of two reasons. Either the water is flowing into the overflow tube when the toilet runs, or there is a problem with the fill-valve. If water is leaking from the tank into the bowl, it is probably an issue with the flush-valve assembly. If the water is running into an overflow pipe, the first thing to check is the float ball. If the float ball is submerged more than halfway in the water, it needs to be replaced. The next thing to check is the guide arm. If the guide arm is binding to the side of the tank or to the overflow tube, it needs to be straightened. If both the float ball and the guide arm are functioning properly, adjust the water level by bending the guide arm or turning the adjustment screws on the fill valve. Flush the toilet and make sure that the water level is even with the fill line on the tank or overflow tube.
How to Unclog a Toilet
The first thing to try when your toilet is clogged is a plumber's helper, or a plunger. Position the plunger over the hole at the bottom of the bowl and push up and down several times. If it is a major clog, it's best to use a toilet snake or a closet auger with a padded end. Place the padded end of the auger in the toilet bowl and work it into the hole. Push the handle down and turn it to push the clog through.
How to Get Rid of Condensation on the Tank
Condensation occurs as a result of a cold tank and warm air. A simple solution is to add a tank cover. An alternative to this is to install an insulating liner inside of the tank. Kits are available from plumbing supply stores. You can also install a mixing valve. This adds a little warm water to the cold water that is entering the tank, which raises the temperature of the tank water.
How to Fix a Toilet That Does Not Flush Properly
The first thing to check is the trip lever. The lever should be set at a slight angle so that it isn't scraping the side of the tank, the overflow tube, or the intake valve. If the lever is not moving freely, bend it slightly toward the center of the tank. If the trip lever isn't the problem, check the lift wire. The lift wire needs to raise the float ball high enough that the outrushing water isn't pulling it back down prematurely. If this is the problem, bend the lift wire enough to shorten it, which will hold the float ball out of the way of rushing water. A float ball that is adjusted too low could also result in improper flushing. To correct this, bend the float arm upward. The water level should be ½ to ¾ of an inch below the top of the overflow pipe. Clogged outlet ports could also be the problem. If this is the case, scrub the ports with a wire brush to remove sediment and mineral build-up.
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