How to fix a toilet that won’t flush/wont stop running water?

How to Fix a Toilet That Won’t Flush or Won’t Stop Running Water

A toilet that won’t flush or won’t stop running water can be frustrating and inconvenient, especially in a household with a large family. A clogged toilet or a faulty flushing mechanism can cause water to overflow from the bowl, leading to water waste and potential damage to surrounding surfaces. In this article, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide on how to fix a toilet that won’t flush or won’t stop running water.

Identify the Problem

Before you start fixing the issue, it’s essential to determine the root cause of the problem. If your toilet won’t flush, it could be due to a clog in the drain line, a faulty flapper or fill valve, or a clogged siphon tube. If the toilet won’t stop running water, it might be due to a fault in the fill valve or a leak in the toilet tank.

Fixing a Clogged Toilet

If your toilet won’t flush, try the following steps:

1. Use a Plunger: Plunge the toilet to dislodge any blockages or debris from the drain line. Pour 2-3 cups of hot water into the toilet bowl, then close the lid and plunge the toilet 8-10 times. Repeat this process until the water drains freely.
2. Use a Drain Snake: If plunging doesn’t work, use a drain snake (auger) to clear any blockages in the drain line. Feed the snake into the drain hole and rotate it as you push it further into the pipe. Remove any clogs or debris as you feel them.
3. Check and Clean the Flapper: If the flapper (the rubber valve that covers the hole at the bottom of the tank) is clogged or mineral-encrusted, clean or replace it. You can try soaking the flapper in hot water mixed with white vinegar or baking soda to loosen mineral deposits.
4. Cock the Chain: If the toilet chain (the chain that connects the flapper to the flush handle) is too long or too short, adjust its length to ensure proper hooking onto the flapper.

Fixing a Running Toilet

If your toilet won’t stop running water, try the following steps:

1. Check the Fill Valve: The fill valve might be faulty or stuck, causing the toilet to constantly refill the tank. Check for any blockages or mineral buildup on the fill valve and clean or replace it if necessary.
2. Inspect the Tank: Check the toilet tank for any leaks or cracks, which can cause water to continuously flow into the bowl. Tighten any loose connections, and repair or replace the tank if necessary.
3. Adjust the Float: The float (the float usually attached to the fill valve) might be stuck or out of position, causing the fill valve to remain open. Adjust the float to ensure it’s free and able to move freely.
4. Check the Flapper: If the flapper is stuck or clogged, adjust or clean it as mentioned earlier to ensure proper water flow.

Additional Tips

• Regular maintenance can help prevent clogged toilets and running water issues. Clean your toilet regularly, including the inside of the tank, to remove mineral deposits and debris.
• If you’re not comfortable with DIY repairs or if the issue persists after trying the above steps, call a professional plumber to diagnose and fix the problem.
• Consider installing a water-saving toilet or dual-flush toilet to reduce water consumption and save on your water bill.

By following these steps, you should be able to identify and fix a toilet that won’t flush or won’t stop running water. Remember to stay calm and patient, as these types of repairs can be time-consuming. Happy fixing!