Plumbing 101: Toilets

For those who have not experienced any prior flooding as drastic as this, the problem is a simple toilet overflow due to a clog. To stop the water from rising too high, lift the floating ballcock. You may want to turn off the water supply in order to stop the flooding while you are plunging. Cover the hole with a toilet plunger and slowly increase the intensity of your plunging until the clog is unlodged. The last resort is to use a closet auger which is a snake that fits into the toilet to clear out clogs. Get an auger with a crank-like handle to make the job a lot easier.

Problem: It Won't Flush

Jiggle the handle and see if chain is properly connected to the flapper. If the chain is too loose, you need to shorten it. You might need to replace the actual handle if it is broken or drooping.

If the handle seems working, tighten the ballcock cap. If that doesn't fix it, check the valves behind the toilet to see if they are shut off.

Problem: The Tank Fills Slowly

Check the ballcock. Otherwise, call the maintenance guy because the pipes might be bad.

Problem: The Pipes Bang After Flushing

Call your maintenance man -- the entire plumbing system needs aeration.

Problem: The Handle Has To Be Jiggled To Stop Water Flow

In this case, water is flowing because the rubber stopper that covers the drain inside the tank is not closing completely. Look inside the tank and see why the stopper is not closing all the way. Perhaps the chain does not have the correct slack.

Problem: Doesn't Completely Flush or Fill

Clean the inside bowl under the rim (where the water comes out). The water holes might be clogged. If that doesn't appear to fix it, tighten the handle and see if that helps. Finally, make sure the stopper completely covers the drain after the tank is empty. It might be preventing the water from flowing.

Problem: Toilet Leaks

Try to figure out where the leak is originating from. Is it leaking from the tank or under the toilet itself? Feel around until you find the source. If the leak is coming from under the toilet, you may need to replace the setting seal. If the leak is coming from the tank, check to see if the water level

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