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Three Potential Causes of a Slow-Flushing Toilet
Nothing’s worse than doing your business but having a toilet fail to do its part. If your toilet doesn’t flush completely or takes several attempts to flush, the underlying problem may be a simple fix. Try one of the solutions below to get things flowing along smoothly again.
1. Check Tank’s Water Level
The first and easiest step to follow is to check the tank’s water level. If it is not high enough, your toilet isn’t getting the water it needs to completely flush. Make sure that nothing is restricting the flapper and that it is opening wide enough to let water through. Add more water to your tank and try flushing again.
2. Clear Mineral Build-Up
If the tank is full enough and working properly, your toilet may be suffering from mineral build-up. With every flush, mineral particles begin to collect around the rim holes and drain of your toilet. Over time, this build-up causes your toilet’s flush to weaken. Luckily, this problem is easy to fix.
To begin, you’ll need some mineral remover (like CLR or Lime-A-Way), a small mirror, a long, metal object (like a screwdriver or coat hanger) and duct tape. Start by turning the water supply off and getting the rim of your toilet as dry as possible.
Then tape up the holes so that no liquid can escape into the bowl (the mirror will help you locate the holes). Pour 1-2 cups of mineral remover into the tank, and let sit for about an hour. Remove the tape, and scrape the holes with your screwdriver or hanger. Turn the water back on and flush.
Another area that may be clogged by mineral deposits or other debris is the toilet’s siphon jet. Located at the front of the bowl, the siphon jet aids in flushing by releasing a powerful stream of water. Use your mirror to see if it’s clogged and attempt to clean it out with a hanger or screwdriver.
3. Ensuring Drain is Clear
If something was accidentally flushed down the toilet, it may be obstructing the toilet’s drain. Try giving your toilet a hefty plunging to see if that dislodges anything. If not, you’ll need to snake your toilet. A professional may be need to called in if your toilet needs to be removed and the drain examined.
If none of these solutions work, your local plumber will be able to determine the root of problem and get your toilet happily flushing again.
Your San Mateo, CA home toilet issues can be a nuisance. Call James Caccia Plumbing at (650) 342-5363 today, and let’s get your toilet back to its flushing state!