Three Ways of Dealing With a Broken Toilet
Before you throw up your hands in frustration and give up on your non-functioning toilet, you might want to make sure there’s not an easy fix you haven’t tried yet. Give these three methods a try to see if you can remedy the problem on your own, but know that an expert at Reichelt Plumbing is available should you need professional assistance.
1. If the Toilet Is Stopped Up, Try Clearing the Blockage
Before you take any further steps, stop trying to flush the debris away or you’ll risk causing an overflow, which can be a pricey problem to deal with. Instead, shut off the water valve and go straight to the source of the problem through one of two techniques.
The first method you can try is obvious: grab a plunger. Keep in mind that the toilet does need to have enough water in it to cover the plunger’s cup in order for the tool to do its job properly. You may have to add water from the sink if the level is low. Pump the plunger 10 times, then see if anything has changed.
The second method is using a drain snake. This plumber’s tool, also known as a plumber’s auger, can fit down into the pipe and dislodge whatever is clogging the toilet. You can buy one at your local hardware store, or you can make one yourself with a long wire from a coat hanger.
2. If the Toilet Keeps Running, Lift the Floating Arm
Hear that constant sound of running water coming from the toilet? It’s probably the result of a ball that floats on top of the water inside the toilet’s tank. Lift the lid and see if the floating arm looks misaligned. If it’s bent or looks wrong, use your hand to maneuver it back into its proper place so the ball floats freely. This should stop the toilet from running continuously.
3. If the Toilet Handle Isn’t Working, Replace It
Although this might sound like a complicated task to accomplish without professional aid, it’s not as difficult as it seems. Head to the store and buy a new handle, then remove your toilet’s tank lid. Unhook the lift chain inside that connects to the flush valve. Remove the old handle, which may be rusted or otherwise damaged. After, clean the area where the old handle was, then add the new handle and reattach the chain.
If none of these quick fixes seem to address your problem, then it’s probably smart to call in a professional plumbing company like Reichelt Plumbing. We service South Cook County in Illinois and Northwest Indiana. Whether you’re dealing with an overflowing toilet or broken water heater, we can provide quick and affordable service.
Learn more about our services or schedule a plumbing appointment today by calling [phone].