There are many causes of a toilet not flushing properly. Sometimes you can guess at the cause of the problem by noticing exactly how the toilet is not flushing properly. Here is a list of some common ways toilets do not flush properly and the likely cause.
Not Flushing Completely
Your toilet should flush completely with a momentary pressing of the flush handle. There are a couple of reasons for your toilet not flushing completely and emptying the bowl on the first pressing of the handle.
One cause for this is a clogged flush jet. The flush jet helps the toilet flush, and it can get clogged over time. The fix for this problem is to unclog the flush jet. Another cause for this problem is a blockage in the toilet drain or the main drain for your Seattle home.
Nothing Happens When the Handle is Pressed
If nothing happens when you operate the handle, the chain that connects the handle lever to the flapper may have become disconnected or is too loose.
Another cause for nothing happening when you operate the handle is that there is no water in the tank. The water supply line valve might be turned off so no water can enter the tank.
Keeps Running After Flushing
A toilet that continues to run after flushing probably has a defective flapper or a problem with the chain that connects the flapper to the handle lever inside the toilet tank.
Toilet Flushes Itself
A toilet that seems to flush itself might have a leaky flapper. If the flapper leaks, water can leak from the tank to the bowl. If this continues long enough, the tank will refill and make a sound as if the toilet was intentionally flushed.
If this happens, the water in the bowl is not refreshed as would happen if the toilet was actually flushed. A leaking flapper is a common problem and can increase your Seattle home water bill.
Continuous Water Running Sound
If you notice a continuous water running sound coming from your toilet, the refill valve may not be working properly. The refill valve stops the water from entering the tank once the tank has refilled after a flush.
If the valve does not stop the water, the water in the tank will overflow into the overflow tube and water will run into the bowl.
