The Ultimate Guide to Toilet Repair: Fixing Common Issues with Ease

Toilets are a crucial part of our daily routine. When they stop working, it can be a big hassle. Luckily, many common toilet problems can be fixed with some basic DIY skills.

However, toilets can be tricky to diagnose because they have two main parts. The lower part holds the water that flushes the toilet, while the upper part sits on the floor. The bowl is a solid piece of porcelain with no moving parts, so it rarely needs repairs. Most toilet repairs involve the tank, which has two key valves and a handle that starts the flush.

People often panic and call a plumber when their toilet breaks, but most repairs can be done yourself. However, some repairs can be difficult, and you might need a specialist.

This guide explores various aspects of toilet repair, including fixing a toilet bowl, addressing leaks at the base, and dealing with a clogged commode. So, if you're searching for "toilet repair near me" and want to tackle the problem yourself, keep reading!

What is Toilet Repair?

Toilet repair involves fixing various issues that prevent your toilet from working properly. Since toilets have two parts—the tank and the bowl—the problem could be in either of these components.

1. Toilet Not Flushing

• Flush Valve Issue: The flush valve lets water rush into the bowl during a flush. If your toilet isn't flushing, the flush valve might be faulty.
• Fill Valve Issue: The fill valve refills the tank after a flush. If your toilet runs continuously or intermittently, it's often due to a faulty fill valve. This is one of the most common toilet repairs.

2. Running or Intermittent Toilet

This issue is usually related to one of the valves mentioned above. These problems are common and relatively simple to fix.

DIY vs. Professional Help

Toilet repairs are typically straightforward, and because a malfunctioning toilet is usually urgent, many homeowners choose to fix it themselves. However, calling a plumber can result in a high-cost emergency visit, which isn't ideal if you're on a budget.

However, it is crucial to address toilet issues quickly. The longer you leave a problem unfixed, the worse it can get. Most toilet repairs are easy to diagnose and can be fixed with simple products or by a professional plumbing engineer.

Common Toilet Problems and How to Fix Them

Toilet Bowl Repair

The toilet bowl is the heart of your toilet, and problems with it can lead to significant inconvenience. Common issues include cracks, leaks, and clogs.

Here's how to handle these problems:

• Cracks in the Toilet Bowl: Small hairline cracks can often be patched with a porcelain repair kit. However, replacing the entire toilet bowl might be necessary for larger cracks to prevent leaks and ensure proper function.

• Leaks from the Bowl: If water is leaking from the bowl, check the connection between the tank and the bowl. Tightening bolts or replacing worn-out washers and gaskets can often resolve the issue.

Fix a Loose Flush Handle

The flush valve is a crucial part of your toilet. It's a plastic or brass fitting located at the bottom centre of the tank. This valve connects to a rubber or neoprene flapper or a float ball, which helps control the water flow.

Here's how it works:

• Float Ball and Flapper: The float ball sits against the valve opening and holds water in the tank. When you want to move the flapper away from the valve seat, you must press the flush handle, which is connected to a chain or lift wire, allowing water to rush from the tank into the toilet bowl.
• Refilling the Tank: Once the water has emptied into the bowl, the flapper returns to its original position, sealing the valve seat. This allows the tank to refill with water for the next flush.
• Overflow Tube: The flush valve also has a vertical overflow tube that prevents the tank from overflowing and lets a small amount of water flow into the toilet bowl when the tank fills up.

When the flush handle becomes loose or disconnected from the rest of the tank, the repair is usually simple.

Here are the steps to fix it:

Reconnect the Lift Wire or Lift Chain

The lift wire or lift chain is what makes the connection between the flush handle and the flapper inside the tank. The flapper is the rubber valve that lifts to allow water to flush the toilet.

Here's how to reconnect it:

• Remove the Tank Lid: Carefully remove the tank lid and set it aside.

• Locate the Lift Wire or Chain: Look inside the tank and find the thin wire or chain hanging from the handle lever.
• Check the Connection: Ensure the lift wire or chain is securely attached to both the handle lever and the flapper. If it's disconnected, reattach it.
• Attach to Handle Lever: Slip the end of the lift wire or chain through the small hole or hook on the handle lever.
• Attach to Flapper: Connect the other end to the flapper's lift arm. There may be a small hook or clip for this purpose.
• Test the Connection: Press the flush handle to see if the flapper lifts properly. If it does, the connection is secure.

Adjust the Handle Mounting Nut

The handle mounting nut secures the flush handle to the tank. If it becomes loose, the handle may not function correctly.

Here's how to adjust it:

• Locate the Mounting Nut: Inside the tank, right where the flush handle extends through the wall of the tank, you'll find the mounting nut.
• Understand the Threads: The mounting nut has reverse (left-handed) threads, which means you tighten it by turning counterclockwise.
• Tighten the Nut: Use a wrench or pliers to turn the nut counterclockwise until it's snug. Be careful not to overtighten, as this could damage the nut or the handle.
• Test the Handle: After tightening, press the flush handle a few times to make sure it moves smoothly and operates the flapper correctly.

Final Check

Once you've reconnected the lift wire or chain and tightened the handle mounting nut, replace the tank lid. Do not forget to test the toilet by flushing it a few times. So you can ensure everything works correctly.

By following these detailed steps, you can easily fix a loose flush handle and restore your toilet to proper working order.

Repair the Toilet Leaks at the Base

One of the most common complaints is a toilet leaking at the base. This issue not only wastes water but can also damage your bathroom floor.

Here's how to address it:

• Identify the Leak Source: Before you start, make sure the leak is actually coming from the base. Check the connections and the tank to rule out other sources.
• Replace the Wax Ring: A worn-out wax ring is a frequent culprit for leaks at the base. To replace it, turn off the water supply, drain the toilet, unbolt it from the floor, and lift it off the flange. Then, you need to remove the old wax ring, clean the area, and install a new one before reseating the toilet.

However, replacing the wax ring on your toilet is a simple DIY task, but it does require lifting the toilet, which can be heavy—typically between 70 to 125 pounds, depending on the size and style. This means you'll need a strong back or some help to safely lift and move the toilet.

Given the risks of lifting heavy objects and the multiple steps involved, such as removing and reattaching nuts and bolts, it might be best to call a professional plumber.

While it may cost more, hiring a professional will guarantee proper completion of the work and help prevent injuries. For reliable and guaranteed service, simply call a serviceteam plumber.

Dealing with a Clogged Commode

A clogged commode can be frustrating and unpleasant. Here are steps to unclog your toilet effectively:

• Use a Plunger:
  A plunger is your first line of defence against a clog. Ensure there's enough water in the bowl to cover the plunger's cup, and use firm, controlled plunging motions to dislodge the blockage.
• Auger or Snake:
  
  

  Auger

  

  Drain Snake

  If a plunger doesn't work properly, you can use a toilet auger, also known as a snake, to access deeper obstructions.

To remove or dislodge the obstruction, put the auger into the toilet and turn the handle.

Overflowing Bowl

Dealing with an overflowing toilet bowl can be stressful, but the solution is straightforward: plunging the clog. While the sight of water spilling onto your bathroom floor might seem disastrous, unclogging the toilet is a common and manageable task.

Here's how to do it:

• Get Your Plunger: Most households already have a toilet plunger. If you don't, they're readily available at most stores for an affordable price.
• Create a Seal: Place the plunger into the bowl filled with water, ensuring you press it firmly against the opening at the bottom to create a tight seal.
• Plunge: Use a steady, rhythmic push-and-pull motion to generate pressure in the drain. Be careful not to plunge too forcefully, as this can cause dirty water to splash out of the bowl.
• Check for Success: After about eight to ten pumps, lift the plunger. If the water begins to drain, you've successfully cleared the clog. Usually, it only takes one or two tries.

This method is not only effective but also one of the most cost-efficient ways to fix your clogged toilet. Just be cautious, as the process can get quite messy, and you may end up with splashes of dirty water. With a bit of patience and the right technique, you'll have your toilet back in working order without ruining your day.

Moreover, fixing an overflowing toilet can take some time because it needs to be done correctly to avoid future problems. Usually, it takes about two to three hours to complete.

If you're not experienced with DIY projects, it might take a bit longer. It's often a good idea to call a plumber for this repair, as DIY attempts can sometimes cause more damage and result in a bigger mess.