Why Won’t My Toilet Flush Properly?
It’s frustrating when your toilet won’t flush properly. Whether it’s a weak flush, a partial flush, or no flush at all, dealing with a malfunctioning toilet can be a pain. Fortunately, most flushing issues can be traced to a few common causes, many of which you might be able to fix yourself!
1. Clogged Toilet or Drain
One of the most obvious reasons a toilet won’t flush properly is a clog. A partial or full clog in the drainpipe prevents water from flowing through, leading to weak or incomplete flushes.
To fix it, try using a plunger to create suction and dislodge the clog. If you want to avoid future clogs, don’t flush excessive toilet paper, wipes, feminine hygiene products, or foreign objects.
2. Low Water Level in the Tank
Your toilet needs enough water in the tank to generate a strong flush. If the water level is too low, the flush will be weak or incomplete. To see if this is the culprit, open the toilet tank and check the water level—it should be about an inch below the overflow tube. If it’s not, you can adjust the float on the fill valve to allow more water to fill the tank. You can also make sure the water supply valve (located behind the toilet) is fully open.
3. Flapper Problems
The flapper is a rubber seal that lifts when you flush, allowing water to flow from the tank to the bowl. If the flapper is damaged or not sealing properly, the toilet may not flush correctly. This might happen if the flapper is worn or warped, or if the flapper chain is too loose or tight.
4. Blocked Rim Jets or Siphon Jet
Over time, mineral buildup or debris can clog the small jets around the rim of the toilet bowl, leading to weak flushes. To see if this is the problem, use a toothbrush (not your own!) or small wire brush to scrub the rim jets.
5. Faulty Fill Valve
If the fill valve is malfunctioning, the toilet won’t refill properly, leading to weak or incomplete flushes. If adjusting the float doesn’t fix the water level issue, consider replacing the fill valve.
When to Call a Plumber
If your toilet still won’t flush properly, there may be a more serious issue, such as a sewer line blockage or a plumbing system problem. In that case, it’s best to call a professional plumber to diagnose and fix the issue.
Need help with a faulty toilet? Aspen Plumbing is here to help.
We offer toilet repair and replacement for people in Fort Collins, Colorado, and surrounding areas. Don’t stress about fixing your toilet yourself! Our team can get the job done in no time. Reach out today to schedule your appointment.
