- Toilet Repair

Broken toilets can cause major headaches. Imagine not being able to use the bathroom because your toilet is broken. Fortunately, many toilet problems can easily be diagnosed. Here's a list of four of the most common issues you may encounter.

Description: Occasionally, especially with older toilets, you may hear your toilet turning on and off by itself as if someone has flushed the toilet.

How to Fix This Problem: After flushing the toilet, turn the water supply off temporarily. Lift up the flapper (the small rubber stopper that blocks the drain at the bottom of the tank) and check for any dirt or debris that may be interfering with the seal. If the flapper appears to be worn or damaged, it will need to be replaced.

Description: When you try to flush the toilet, nothing happens. In some cases, the flush valve may be stuck in the down position.

How to Fix This Problem: There's a chain on your flush valve that connects the back of the valve to the flapper. When you flush, this chain opens the flapper, which allows the toilet to flush. The chain is most likely broken and will need to be replaced.

Description: When you flush the toilet, the water continues to rise until the flapper closes again.

How to Fix This Problem: Depending on the location of the clog, you might be able to remove it yourself. Most of the time a toilet clog is minor, and you'll be able to simply plunge it. However, a more severe clog will require a plumber's snake or auger to remove.

Description: The bowl may take a long time to empty.

How to Fix This Problem: Check the holes underneath the rim of the toilet on the inside. Sometimes dirt and debris can get in the holes. Give the holes a good scrubbing, and you should be fine. Contact GNC Plumbing for your toilet repair needs!