Tips for Common Toilet Issues

As your go-to option for emergency plumbing services in Utah, we at All Hours Plumbing, Drain Cleaning, Heating & Cooling are available 24/7 to handle your most serious plumbing issues. The toilet is one of the most common areas we’re called out to service, and with good reason.

Did you know, though, that there are several toilet-related incidents you can solve on your own, with nothing but a basic tool kit and a little know-how? There may be certain severe issues only a professional can take care of, but here are a few basic tips for helping you handle some of these concerns yourself – or at least hold them off until professional help can arrive.

Phantom Flushes

Are you hearting your toilet randomly refill itself at strange times, even when it hasn’t been used recently? This and related issues are called phantom flushes, and they’re caused by a slow leak from the toilet tank into the bowl itself. A bad flapper or flapper seat is the issue – this is what controls how quickly water enters the tank, and it’s easy to see in the tank.

To solve phantom flushes, drain the tank and the bowl first. Then check the flapper seat for wear and tear or outright damage – if it’s in bad shape, you’ll likely just need a simple replacement.

Tank Trickling

This is when water trickles into the tank via the supply line, and you’ll hear a hissing sound that sustains for long periods of time. First, check whether the floating element in the tank is sticking, or needs to be adjusted a little. Next, make sure the refill tube isn’t inserted too far into the overflow tube. If neither of these works, it’s time to call the plumbers at All Hours Plumbing, Drain Cleaning, Heating & Cooling.

Slow Emptying

Also called a weak flush, this is usually caused by clogged holes under the rim of the toilet bowl. To fix it, poke each flush hole under the rim gently with a curved piece of wire, with the goal of cleaning out any debris. You can use a small mirror to help you see, and a metal coat hanger should do the trick. Be careful not to scratch the bowl.

The Clog

The most common issue involving toilets, there are several causes of clogs. A trusty plunger will often do the trick, especially a force-cup plunger that’s a big more heavy duty than the standard kind. For a more serious clog, use a closet auger. Again, be careful not to scratch the bowl while you’re doing this.

If you’re confused about any of these details, or want to know more about any of our plumbing services, speak to the experts at All Hours Plumbing, Drain Cleaning, Heating & Cooling today.