A properly functioning toilet will flush completely, with enough water flow to easily eliminating waste; it will then refill the toilet bowl and toilet tank with freshwater, ensuring it’s ready for the next use. However, with time, it’s not unusual for a toilet to develop a weak toilet flush or a flush that doesn’t quite get the job done. There are a number of reasons why a toilet might have a weak flush, and some are quite easy to remedy, while others might require the services of an experienced plumber.
Ways To Fix A Weak Toilet Flush
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No matter what might be causing the problem, it’s important to get to the bottom of the issue and get it fixed as quickly as possible before larger plumbing issues develop. Let’s start by looking at some of the more common issues that could be causing your toilet to have any incomplete or weak flush.
Make Sure The Water Valve To The Toilet Is Open Completely
If you look down towards the base of the toilet, you should see a handle that opens and closes the water flow to your toilet. This convenient on/off valve is important because it allows you to easily turn the water to the toilet off if there is a plumbing emergency or if you need to make repairs to the toilet. However, if this valve isn’t opened completely, allowing the full flow of water into the toilet, it can lead to a weakened flush. Before you take on any of the bigger, more involved diagnostics, it’s a good idea to do a simple check to make sure the water is in the full “on” position. Turn the valve all the way to the “off” position, then turn it all the way in the opposite direction, making sure it is all the way in the “on” position.
Check The Level Of The Toilet Float
Just like checking the water flow into the toilet, checking the float is a quick and easy step to take before you get more involved in diagnosing the problem. Simply remove the cover to the toilet tank and take a look at the float. You’ll recognize the float because it is the bulb-shaped device that sits on the surface of the water in the tank and will go down when the toilet is flushed but should rise back up when the tank fills with water.
Make sure the float is moving up and down freely and that it is set high enough to allow the tank to fill to the appropriate level for a good flush. Every toilet has a mark indicating where the water level should be, this level is just below the overflow pipe. Without enough water in the tank, your toilet will not be able to flush properly.
Inspect The Toilet Flapper
While you have the cover off the tank, check the flapper to see if it is sitting over the outlet opening properly. If it’s sitting a bit off kilter or the flapper seems to be showing signs of wear, a quick replacement might solve your weak flushing problem. This is an easy and inexpensive fix and it could save you the expense of calling in a plumber.
Clean Rim Jets
Another common problem is that rim jets become clogged with debris or mineral deposits. These little jets are located under the rim of the toilet bowl and supply water to the toilet as it flushes and refills. Take a toilet brush and some toilet cleaner and make sure that these jets are thoroughly clean, then try flushing again to see if there is any improvement.
Is The Trap Clogged?
At the base of the toilet bowl, there is a curved pipe, which the discharged water and waste must pass through. If this area has a blockage, even if it’s not a complete clog, it will reduce the water flow and flushing power. Try using a plunger or plumbing snake to dislodge any clog. If this clears up the problem and your toilet is flushing at full force again, you have found the solution. Otherwise, give Robinson Plumbing a call to diagnose and solve your toilet clog.
Time To Call A Professional Plumber
If you’ve tried all of the above, but you’re still experiencing a weak flush with your toilet, it’s time to consider calling in a plumber. An experienced plumber will be able to diagnose the problem and repair your toilet to get it back to working the way it should.
Call Robinson Plumbing For All Of Your Plumbing Requirements
Contact Robinson Plumbing, one of the most trusted plumbing companies in the Lehigh Valley, for reliable plumbing services. We have lots of plumbing services ranging from toilet repairs and replacements, faucet upgrades, water leak repairs, clogged drain repairs, and more. We always give a wide range of solutions when possible for any plumbing repairs. This allows you to choose the best options for your budget and home.
We proudly offer the most affordable and best plumbing services in the Lehigh Valley area. Our plumbers all have the proper licenses and expertise to ensure your satisfaction. All of our work comes with a guarantee. Contact Robinson Plumbing today and schedule your free estimate.
Call us today at (610) 351-9889 or click here to contact us for any questions that you might have!