Have you noticed that the toilets in your Etobicoke home aren’t flushing properly, but you aren’t quite sure why? They aren’t clogged since you can still flush them, and they aren’t overflowing, but there’s something going on with the toilets in your home. There are several reasons this could be happening, and here’s what you need to know.
Check the tank
If the toilet isn’t flushing properly, the first thing you should do is to check the tank. Is the tank filling all the way? If the answer is no, then this is where you should start – and figure out why it’s not filling all the way.
If it is filling all the way? Then the issue is located elsewhere and could be a clog further down the pipe or another issue altogether.
Look at the chain
Another easy item to check off the list of possible problems is the chain and handle. If the handle doesn’t really do anything when you push it, and it just flaps there, then there could be a problem with the handle itself and the connection to the flapper.
If this is the case, check inside the toilet tank. If either the handle or the chain is broken, you will want to replace it.
Check for a clog
Most people think when a toilet is clogged, it won’t flush at all, but clogs can range in severity from partial to completely blocked.
Toilet paper, personal wipes and other obstructions can build up over time and cause clogs. If you have a plunger on hand, you can plunge the toilet to break up the clogs and see if the toilet starts flushing better.
If this doesn’t work and it’s still not flushing properly, then it may not be a clog in the toilet, and there could be other issues.
The flapper
The flapper on your toilet will be located at the bottom of the tank, and it should seal completely when closed. If it is not sealing tight enough, it can cause your toilet not to flush properly. To check if the flapper is working, remove the lid of the tank and flush your toilet. One of the signs the flapper isn’t sealed is if your toilet is running often and for longer than it should after flushing.
The good news is that if the flapper isn’t sealing, and that’s the problem, you can pick up a new one at your local home improvement store and change it yourself.
Check the inlet holes
When a toilet is flushed, the water will drain from small holes which are located around the underside of the toilet rim. Sometimes these holes can become clogged, and that will result in the toilet draining slower than normal.
If this is the case for your toilet, you can usually clear them out with a toilet cleaning brush or by using a toothpick to clear out the holes.
Understanding why the toilets in your Etobicoke home are flushing slowly can be frustrating, especially if it’s not really obvious. However, with a bit of research, you should be able to determine the issue.
Contact D. Jason Plumbing today
If you have a poorly flushing toilet and have not been able to determine the issue – or if you aren’t comfortable trying to fix it yourself, we are here to help. Call us today to arrange for service from one of our professional plumbers.