Most homeowners have to deal with a malfunctioning toilet at one time or another. For instance, a problem can arise if the water level in your toilet tank is too high or too low. Also, the parts of a toilet can wear out causing it to run continuously or have a weak flush. Discover several common water flow issues related to toilets. Also, learn about some tools that can help you maintain the appropriate toilet water level and flow.
The Importance of Maintaining Proper Flow and Water Level in a Toilet
When you have a toilet with water flow problems it makes the device less efficient. A toilet with a low level of water flowing into the bowl is likely to have a weak flush. Consequently, you have to flush two or three times to clear the bowl. This is a waste of water and can cause your water bill to go up. A toilet with too much water in its tank and bowl is likely to overflow causing a mess and even damage to your floor. Maintaining appropriate water level and flow allows your toilet to flush quickly and efficiently.
Toilet Water Flow Issues and Their Possible Causes
A Toilet That Stops and Starts
After flushing your toilet, the water leaves the bowl and the tank begins to fill up. After the tank fills up, the toilet goes silent. This is the normal operation of a toilet. But, a few minutes later, your toilet starts running again for about ten seconds and stops. The same process happens again and again. This is a water flow problem. There’s a good chance this issue is being caused by a worn-out flapper. Over time, the rubber on the flapper in your toilet tank wears out allowing water to seep from the tank. The drop in water level signals the toilet to start filling to make up for the loss.
An Overflow
After flushing your toilet, the water begins to rise in the bowl instead of emptying out. The water level becomes so high it flows over the sides of the bowl. The water level is too high due to a clog somewhere in the pipe that is stopping water from leaving the bowl when you flush. It may be something you can remove with the help of a toilet plunger. Or, it may be a clog that has built up over time and needs to be removed with professional plumbing equipment. In cases like these, it would be better to call an expert technician from firms like Kellie Plumbing, Inc. (for more info, check kellieplumbing.com/service-area/whiteland/) or similar places.
A Slow Filling Tank
If you notice it takes several minutes for your toilet bowl to refill after your flush, then you probably have a worn-out valve. In addition, you may notice the water level in the bowl is still very low after it’s done filling. This may be due to debris stuck in the pipes that is not allowing an adequate amount of water to flow back into the toilet tank. A toilet bowl with a low water level doesn’t flush efficiently.
Leaking Water at the Toilet’s Base
Water pooling at the base of your toilet usually means the wax ring beneath your toilet is worn out. It needs to be replaced with the help of a plumber Trenton or elsewhere. When water leaks from the bottom of your commode, it affects water flow causing your toilet to work inefficiently.
Other common toilet malfunctions:
Tools Designed to Fix Toilet Water Flow Issues
- A loose handle
- Clogged toilet jets
- A worn-out fill valve
- A broken chain in the tank.
An Adjustable Toilet Flapper
One tool that can fix toilet water flow issues is the adjustable toilet flapper. You can adjust the dial to control the amount of water traveling from the tank to the bowl. Although it is possible to install one of these yourself, many people will prefer to click here to learn more about hiring a plumber who can carry out this repair for you, or even replace the toilet altogether.
A Level Sensor for Liquids
Another helpful tool is a level sensor for liquids. This item constantly monitors water level. So, when an issue does come up, you can address the problem before it gets worse and causes damage.
A Pressure Monitor
When it comes to proper water flow in a toilet, a pressure transducer can be a useful tool as well. High water pressure can cause your toilet to continually run or otherwise malfunction. Monitoring it with a pressure transducer can give you peace of mind.
An Anti-Siphon Toilet Tank Fill Valve
This valve prevents water from needlessly flowing back into the water system after a toilet is flushed. It shuts off when the tank is filled to a particular level. Using this item helps to prevent water waste.
Finally, though most toilets experience water flow issues as they grow older, there are new tools that can help you monitor the situation. These tools and gauges are valuable in helping you save water and keep your toilet in good working condition.
