Did you know that the average person will spend about 92 days of their life using the toilet? With that much use, it’s no surprise that toilets can occasionally encounter problems, such as not flushing, leaking, or slow filling. While some toilet issues can be fixed easily on your own, others require professional plumbing expertise. A properly installed and well-maintained toilet can last up to 50 years, but timely repairs are essential to ensure longevity.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most common toilet issues and what to do when they arise. And, if you ever find yourself in over your head, don’t hesitate to call us at Green Group for professional plumbing services in Nashville, Franklin, Murfreesboro, and surrounding areas.
Issue 1: Toilet Won’t Flush
An overflowing toilet or one that simply won’t flush is a common bathroom nightmare. More often than not, the culprit is a clog. Here’s what you can do if your toilet refuses to flush:
Plunger or Toilet Auger:
The first tool in your arsenal should be a plunger. If the plunger doesn’t work, try using a toilet auger to break up or retrieve any blockages deeper in the pipes.
Check the Flush Handle and Lift Arm:
If plunging doesn’t do the trick, it might be worth inspecting the flush handle and lift arm assembly inside the toilet tank. Sometimes, the lift chain becomes too loose or detaches from the flapper, which prevents the water from fully emptying into the bowl.
Inspect the Toilet Flange or Drain Pipe:
If the clog is more severe and located in the toilet flange or drain pipe, you may need to call a plumber to assess and clear the blockage. Left unchecked, a stubborn clog can cause overflow or backflow, leading to a bigger mess than you’d like to handle on your own.
For more detailed help with toilet clogs, visit our website.
Issue 2: Leaking Toilet
Leaky toilets are more than just an inconvenience. They can cause serious water damage to your floors and, worse, lead to unsanitary conditions if wastewater is involved. If you spot a leak, here’s where to check:
Water Supply Valve: Ensure that the water supply valve is tight enough. Sometimes, a simple tightening can stop the leak.
Supply Line: Inspect the supply line that delivers water to the tank. If the line is cracked or damaged, it may need to be replaced.
Base of the Toilet or Floor: If you notice water pooling around the base of your toilet, the mounting bolts or wax ring may need to be tightened or replaced.
Toilet Bowl or Tank: In some cases, cracks in the toilet bowl or tank could be the source of the leak. This will likely require a replacement to fix the issue.
Leaks are not to be ignored! If you can’t pinpoint the source or fix it yourself, a professional plumbing inspection is your best bet. Read more about leak detection and repair [here](https://greengrouptn.com/).
Issue 3: Slow-Filling Toilet
A slow-filling toilet is frustrating, especially when you’ve just flushed and are waiting for the tank to refill. Typically, a properly functioning toilet should stop running within two minutes after flushing. If your toilet takes much longer, here’s what you should do:
Check the Water Supply Valve: First, ensure that the water supply valve isn’t too tight. A valve that’s closed too much can restrict water flow, causing a slow fill.
Inspect the Toilet Pump and Valve: The fill valve and pump are responsible for controlling how much water flows into the tank. If these parts are dirty or damaged, you can disassemble and clean them by removing the tank lid.
Possible Drain Pipe Blockage: If the above steps don’t resolve the issue, a blockage deeper within your plumbing system might be to blame. In this case, it’s a good idea to consult a plumber.
Need help with a slow-filling toilet? Reach out to us.
Issue 4: Running Water (Ghost Flushing)
If your toilet seems to refill at random or you hear water running even though no one has flushed, this is often referred to as “ghost flushing.” It’s usually an internal leak within the toilet system, though sometimes external leaks can also cause water loss. Here’s how to troubleshoot a running toilet:
External Leaks: If there’s water around the toilet’s base, you may be dealing with an external leak. In this case, tighten bolts or replace the seal as needed.
Internal Leaks: If you don’t see external signs, check inside the tank:
– Refill Tube: Make sure the refill tube is not inserted too deeply into the overflow pipe. This can cause water to siphon continuously into the bowl.
– Damaged Flapper: The flapper is a rubber seal that controls the release of water from the tank into the bowl. If it’s damaged, worn out, or too small, it may cause water to leak into the bowl constantly. Replacing the flapper often solves this issue.
In some cases, you may need to replace the entire flush system. If that’s the case, we recommend hiring a plumber to ensure everything is done correctly.
When in Doubt, Call Green Group
Plumbing problems can often be more complex than they first appear. While some minor repairs can be done on your own, larger issues like recurring clogs, leaks, or running water should be addressed by a professional to avoid costly damage in the long run.
At Green Group, we specialize in all things plumbing, including bathroom fixtures like toilets, sinks, tubs, and showers. If you’re experiencing toilet issues or want to prevent problems before they occur, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our experienced plumbers are here to help keep your plumbing running smoothly all year round.
Visit our website today to schedule your service!