The toilet is probably one of the most important fixtures in every Big Bear home. Although it is a tough and reliable part of the plumbing system, it does require repairs every once in a while. Big Bear toilet replacements are rare but need to be carried out when necessary.
Toilets can encounter different types of plumbing issues, with clogging being the most common one. The toilet tank is another component of the plumbing system that can require attention.
Many Big Bear homeowners tend to underestimate or put off toilet repairs only to realize later that the problem has worsened. Others try DIY fixes, which are temporary in nature.
For enduring respite from toilet troubles, it is best to have the professional Bear Valley plumbing team inspect the problem and find a fitting solution.
However, until a skilled plumber gets to your home to check out your toilet, you can give the following quick fixes a try.
1. Clogged Toilet
Like clogged drains, this is also a common toilet issue that almost every homeowner faces. While drain cleaning unblocks a clogged drain, you need special tools to unclog a toilet.
The first thing to do will be turning off the water supply. You will need a specialized toilet plunger which comes with an internal cup or flange. In case it doesn’t work, try unclogging the toilet with a drain snake tool, also known as toiler auger.
Stubborn clogs may need professional intervention and you will do well to engage the services of a Bear Valley plumbing expert to deal with it effectively.
2. Leaks at the Toilet Base
Have you ever noticed water oozing out of the base of the toilet bowl, spreading on the bathroom floor? Condensation can occur in the summer months, which is normal. However, you know you have a real problem at hand when you see a pool of water gathered at the base of your toilet.
Chances are, the accumulated water is filthy, which is why it is best to avoid using your toilet until the issue is fixed. More often than not, the leak occurs due to problems or cracks in the wax ring that seals the base of the toilet to the drain opening in the floor.
Fixing this entails removing the toilet to replace the wax ring. Don’t forget to turn off the water supply before starting on this task.
If this seems too daunting for you or you’re not sure how to remove the toilet without damaging it, you should call Bear Valley plumbing services right away for help.
3. Running Toilet
A running toilet is another common and annoying problem that every homeowner faces. The issue occurs due to one of the following two reasons:
- The flapper isn’t sitting correctly on the opening of the flush valve
- The water level in the tank is higher than normal, leading to water flowing over the overflow tube and down into the tank
Either way, all refill valves will allow you to adjust the water level. The flapper valves can be adjusted or replaced as well.
If your toilet continues to run despite making the necessary adjustments, turn off the water supply and get help from Bear Valley plumbing professionals, who will know exactly what to do to fix the issue.
4. Loose Flush Handle
When the flush handles come loose or gets detached from the tank, you can typically employ any one of the below-mentioned remedies:
- Rejoin the lift wire or lift chain that links the lift arm with the flapper
- Fine-tune the handle mounting nut inside the tank. Rotate the reverse threads counterclockwise to tighten the handle.
5. Improper Flushing
Sometimes, you may find that your toilet isn’t flushing the way it should, i.e. it either flushes partially or doesn’t flush at all.
If your toilet is flushing partially, check the list chain. There shouldn’t be too much slack in it. You may need to make some adjustments to ensure this. You should also make sure to maintain the right water level in the tank. You can follow the manufacturer’s instructions to adhere to the proper levels. Also, the flapper should be installed properly. It should be the right type and size for your toilet. If it isn’t, you will have to replace it.
If your toilet isn’t flushing at all, check if the flush handle has come loose or is too tight. You can adjust this by turning the nut clockwise to loosen or counterclockwise to tighten the handle. Examine the flush lever lift arm.
Depending on the situation, it may need to adjust or replace. The listed chain should be properly attached to the lift arm and the flapper at the base of the valve. Finally, check the flapper. If it is damaged, replace it.
6. Noisy Toilet
Some homeowners face the problem of ghost flushing, i.e. the toilet flushes even when not in use. To set this straight, check the refill tube in the flush tank. It should be running from the fill valve. It should not be inserted into the overflow tube. If it is, remove it and secure it outside the tube.
Also, ensure that the flapper seals the flush valve opening. Clear any particles that may be preventing the seal and replace the flapper, if required. If the problem persists, you may have to replace the flush valve assembly entirely.
Conclusion
Fixing a toilet is a lot harder than people think. Even if you employ DIY solutions, they will serve you only temporarily. It is best to trust Big Bear plumbing professionals for long-term solutions. Fortunately, you can outsource the job to our licensed and experienced plumbing team. Bear Valley Plumbing & Heating is your trusted partner in the Big Bear area. Call us on (909) 584-4376 to schedule an appointment. We are at your service 24/7 to assist you in troubleshooting the minutest plumbing issues.
If you are looking for a Big Bear plumbing, heating & air conditioning contractor, please call (909) 584-4376 or complete our online request form.
Category: Plumbing Installation
