Toilet Tank TroubleshootingToilet tank troubleshooting, is a case of checking things off a list by the power of deduction. It's annoying listening to your toilet leak and make funny noises when you're trying to sleep. With a little detective work, you should be able to fix a toilet without calling a plumber. Sometimes a package of toilet tanks parts for $10 - $15 dollars is all that's needed.
It is usually better to replace everything at once since the toilet parts are so cheap. You will also have piece of mind in the future, not having to repeat your troubleshooting process.
Common ProblemsToilet Tank Troubleshooting:The flush Valve, or flapper valve is connected to the handle lift arm with a chain. When this is not functioning properly, water leaks slowly from the toilet tank through the flapper and into the toilet. Inspect your flush valve to see if it is worn. If so, replace it. The flapper valve may also be dropping too fast, or may be getting caught. Flush a few times, with the tank lid off, watch and assess the situation. If this is happening, try adjusting the chain up or down, thus changing the tension on the chain when the toilet is flushed. The float ball may also be causing your problem. This lifts and drops the water level in your tank. It may be sticking and needs to be adjusted. The float ball can be adjusted by turning it in or out. More Toilet Tank Troubleshooting TipsWhen your toilet tank doesn't stop running, it could be as simple as a kinked chain. Place your hand on the chain and straighten it out. Water may be running into the overflow tube. Try adjusting the ballcock. (the shut off assembly at the end of the float rod) If the tank won't fill properly, this could also be the ballcock. Corrosion on the float arm could be causing the problem. Inspect it, as you may need to clean it. If you flush the toilet and nothing happens, the handle may be to blame. It may have become disconnected. Lift the toilet tank lid off and see if the connections have come apart. The float rod may need to be adjusted as well. To adjust the rod, you can screw it in or out. If the arm is coroded you may have to slowly bend the float arm up or down . No Water in The TankIf your water level is low, your float may need to be reset. Your ballcock may also be worn out. This may need to be replaced. To replace your ballcock, you will need to shut off the water supply first. Then flush the rest of the water out of the toilet. Unscrew the the float rod that is connected to the float ball and replace it with a new one.
Check to see if there is a crack in the housing where the float rod connects. If there is a crack, or the housing is broken, you can find new parts to fit at most hardware stores. When it comes down to replacing parts, make sure you study how the original parts fit. Draw a picture if you must, so the new ones fit the same when you are finished. If you can only find retrofit parts that don't match, don't fret too much. Make sure you bring the parts to the store with you. As long as the parts attach the same at the tank and you replace them all, you'll be safe in the swap.
Toilet Repair
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