Common Causes for Toilet Problems
When it comes to plumbing problems in the home, nothing is more aggravating than a
faulty or malfunctioning toilet. Toilet issues don’t just drive up the utility costs - they can
also make using the bathroom a nightmare. It's important to understand some of the most
common causes of plumbing problems to save your toilet from having problems or breaking
down.
Clogs
Flushing foreign items down the drain will cause some clogging problems. These can lead to
significant issues with your sewage system, resulting in major backups. Just soft paper goods
like toilet paper and thin napkins can be flushed, apart from human waste. Other paper
items can seem to go down smoothly, but they may get trapped or build up in the pipes. If
you have pets, keep an eye out for them flushing toys, fabric, or food down the toilet.
Many small clogs may be cleared with a plunger. However, if the condition persists, it's time
to call in a plumber.
Worn Flapper Valve
A flapper is the part of your toilet that causes water to flow from the cistern into the toilet
bowl and fill it up after flushing. Your toilet can flush on its own or run continuously due to a
deteriorated flapper valve, causing your water bill to skyrocket.
A flapper valve will fail for one of two reasons:
● It was faulty from the start.
● Over time, it deteriorated.
Loose Connections
Loose links can also cause a leaking toilet. For example, rubber linings may wear away,
allowing water to seep through.
The mounting nuts and supply tubes may loosen as well. Your plumber can inspect these
areas to ensure that they are fully sealed.
Condensation
Another toilet issue that may result in water on the bathroom floor is condensation. During
cold weather, a badly insulated tank may be the source of the condensation. If this is the
case, have a specialist come by to install insulating liners in the affected areas of your
bathroom.
Cracked Tank
A defective or cracked toilet tank is one of the most serious plumbing problems. While
cracks might not always be noticeable, the water that results is. A broken tank, if left
unattended, will create issues for you, your toilet, your bathroom floor, and your utility bills.
The valve on your toilet will continue to allow water to fill the tank until it is full.
However, if your tank leaks, it's unlikely that it'll ever be fully finished, allowing your toilet to
run on its own. If this is the source of your toilet issues, it's time to replace the appliance.
Sewer Line Clog
While most toilet clogs indicate a problem with the toilet, others may indicate a larger
plumbing issue, such as a clogged sewer line. Flushed foreign items, broken drains, tree
roots, and moving soil can cause sewer line clogs. When more than one appliance, such as
your tub and toilet, backs up with water, it usually indicates a problem with your sewer line.
It's important to contact a cesspool service ASAP.
If you’re having any issues with your cesspool, we at Mid Suffolk Cesspool would be happy
to take a look! Just book an appointment, and one of our specialists will diagnose your
problem and provide expert services.