How To Troubleshoot A Sluggish Low-Flush Toilet
If you are experiencing issues with your low-flush toilet, it is possible for a novice to troubleshoot the problem. Standard toilets require around three gallons to flush, whereas low-flush toilets require half that amount.
Low-flush toilets first made an appearance in the early 1990s. The first low-flush toilets didn't have a good reputation, and while they gradually improved, they still have issues occasionally Here are tips tips to troubleshoot a sluggish low-flush toilet.
Prepare to Work
For this project, you need:
- plastic or rubber gloves
- cup
- bucket
- garden hose
- plunger
- stiff wire
- closet auger (snake)
Low-flush toilets made before 1998 should be replaced, since they take two flushes to empty. This is because the first models lacked elongated traps to dispose of bulk waste effectively. Flush the toilet, and check the date on the stamp on the bottom of the tank.
The pipes in older houses may be too large to properly dispose of the waste. Contact a plumber if you don't know how old the plumbing is.
Check Water Level
Flush the toilet, and inspect the fill level when it stops filling. The water should come an inch under the fill line.
To increase the water level, adjust the float by rotating the ball to the right to shorten. If the toilet has a float cup, unhook the rod, and press the rod and float up.
Adjust the Chain
Remove the lid and set it in a safe place. Loose flapper chains can cause flushing issues, since they can get caught under the flapper. Turn off the water supply to the toilet at the valve beside or behind it, and flush it, if you haven't done so already.
Ensure the handle is attached to the chain. Insert a linkage on the hook to shorten the chain, but don't make it too short, which may prevent the flapper from sitting on the flapper valve. To lengthen the chain, remove a link.
Plunge the Toilet
Pour a gallon of water down the toilet while you flush. If this backs up, there is a blockage.
Refill the toilet, set the plunger over the toilet hole, and plunge until the toilet works. Use a snake to feel around for any remaining blockages. Clean the holes of the toilet rim with a stiff wire.
Inspect the Vent Opening
If no blockage is present, inspect the plumbing vent on the roof. Vents often get clogged with leaves and other debris, which causes a sluggish flush. Connect a hose to an outdoor tap.
Set a ladder on flat ground, and climb on the roof, taking the hose with you. Spray water from a garden hose down in the vent opening to clear it.
For help, contact a company like AAA Plumbing.
Share