We’ve all been there before – you flush the toilet handle but instead of the water swirling down, it stays put. There’s nothing more frustrating than a toilet that won’t flush correctly. This situation can be embarrassing, especially if you have guests over or are in a public restroom.
But don’t worry, with a little bit of knowledge, we can fix this issue. So let’s get started with some possible reasons why your toilet won’t flush as it should.
Clog Alert
The most common reason that toilets won’t flush is because of clogs. A clog arises when you flush things that shouldn’t be flushed down the toilet, like toys, tampons, napkins, or too much toilet paper. These things can get stuck in the drain or the piping below the toilet. The best way to prevent this issue is to be mindful of what you flush, use less toilet paper, and reinforce the idea that toilets are made only for bodily waste and toilet paper. Lastly, you can use a plunger or a toilet auger to fix the clog.
Low Water Level
Another reason why toilets might experience flushing difficulties is a low water level in the water tank. The water tank is responsible for creating the pressure that forces water into the bowl, creating enough energy to make the bowl drain. If the water tank is not filled correctly or is leaking water and not refilling fast enough, then there won’t be enough pressure for flushing to happen. You can fix the problem by checking the water supply, making sure the tank is filled halfway, and contacting a plumber if the issue is persistent.
Broken Parts
A faulty mechanism inside the toilet is another possible culprit behind your flushing problems. For example, the flapper – the rubber stopper that controls the water released when you flush – is a critical component that often gives out over time. When the flapper doesn’t seal tightly, or it is damaged, it can cause water leakage or a weak flush. You can quickly fix this by replacing the flapper with a new one, which you can find in any hardware store.
Blocked Drain Pipe
Another reason why your toilets refuse to flush might be blocked drain pipes. When waste can’t go through the pipeline, water backing up occurs, and the toilet bowl’s contents become stagnant. An old or broken drain pipe, tree roots, or debris inside the pipes can cause major blockages. A professional plumber can diagnose and solve the problem by using a plumbing snake or hydro jetting to remove the blockage.
Conclusion
Many different issues can cause your toilet’s flushing problems. The best advice is to be careful when using your toilet and prevent flushing anything that can cause clogs, such as non-flushable items. In case of a persistent issue, consider contacting a professional who can help you diagnose and repair the problem. Remember, a toilet not flushing is not the end of the world, but it can cause an embarrassing and frustrating moment.
For all your plumbing needs, don’t hesitate to contact Discount Plumbing San Diego right away! Our team of experienced plumbers is dedicated to providing you with high-quality services that won’t leave you feeling frustrated and embarrassed by a toilet that won’t flush.