Common toilet problems and solutions

Many toilet problems are simple to identify and easy to handle yourself. The mechanism in the tank isn't complicated and replacement parts are available at any plumbing or home store. Here are some common problems and solutions that you might be able to tackle yourself.

This could be caused by a variety of reasons:

• Water supply is turned off: Turn it on.
• Handle is loose: Tighten handle by turning the locknut inside the tank. The handle may also need cleaning— remove the handle assembly and clean it.
• Lift chain is broken or disconnected: Reattach the chain or replace it. If it's twisted, untwist it.
• Ballcock valve is broken: Replace the ballcock assembly.
• Water level is too low: Adjust the water level higher.
• Lift chain is too long: Shorten the lift chain.

• Toilet overflows: Check if there's a clog in the toilet. If so, unclog toilet.
• Toilet empties slowly: If the water level in tank is too low, the flush holes or siphon hole might be clogged. Adjust the water level and unblock the holes by inserting a short piece of coathanger wire.
• Water won't stop running: This could be happening for many reasons. If the handle is stuck, loosen the handle. If the lift chain is tangled, adjust it. Check to see if the float ball leaks— if so, it needs to be replaced. Or, if the ballcock is broken, replace the ballcock assembly.

• Tank or bowl leaks: Check to see if the tank nuts are loose or water-connections are loose.
• Tank or bowl is cracked: If water is leaking around the bottom of the bowl, tighten nuts on bolts connecting tank to bowl supply and on water-supply line. Have replacement parts installed. Replace the wax ring.
• Water drops are on tank: This usually means that there is a condensation problem. Insulate the tank.
• Flush valve leaks: Clean mineral deposits and sediment with fine steel wool on a brass valve, or a plastic scouring pad on a plastic.

Replacing a wax ring or a toilet tank or bowl is heavy work that takes some experience. Call a plumber for those jobs. Other jobs can have simple solutions that you may be able to resolve yourself. Keep these tips in mind and give it a shot!