Failing to flush the toilet is annoying, but it’s likely that there’s a solution. The following guide has been created by our team of plumbers to help you understand the most common reasons why your toilet won’t flush. Depending on the issue, you might be able solve the problem without calling a local Long Beach Plumber.
THE LIFT CHAIN HAS WAY TO MUCH SLACK
If the handle is not responsive when you press down on it, the lift chain in the tank that connects to the flapper and releases water has likely shifted. This can cause too much tension on the chain.
Solution Take off the tank lid, and reduce the length of your lift chain so that there is no slack between handle and flapper.
THE TOILET IS CLOGGED
A clogged toilet can be almost certain if someone in the family uses too much toilet paper, drops a toy or flushes a sanitary product.
Solution: It is possible to find toys and other items on the surface. For absorbent materials like diapers or sanitary products, you can try to remove the clog with a plunger or a brush.
WATER LEVEL IS LOW
Your toilet won’t flush if there isn’t enough water. Your toilet might not flush properly because the float ball in your tank may have been incorrectly adjusted.
Solution Open the tank lid. The float ball should be floating about 1 to 2 inches below overflow tube or fill valve. A line might be etched into porcelain to indicate the level at which the float ball should remain. To maintain that level, adjust the float ball.
FLAPPER IS WARRED
The flapper could be bent if your toilet is not flushing as often as it should. The flapper connects to the lift chain. It opens when you press on the handle. Rubber flappers can become brittle or warp over time. This makes it less able to seal the flush tube hole, and allow water to flush the toilet.
Solution: Buy a new flapper from a hardware or home-improvement store. These flappers are easy to find and affordable. Turn off the water main, drain your toilet tank, then replace the damaged flapper with the new flapper. Re-turn the water on, and flush the toilet.
DRY LINE PROBLEM OR SEWER PROBLEM
If your toilet doesn’t flush after you have tried the above solutions, it is time to contact a professional to inspect your plumbing and sewer system. If your drains are clogged throughout your house, and not just your toilet, it is a sign you have a problem with your sewer system or drain line.
Contact a licensed Long Beach, CA Plumber to clear clogs. The problem can’t be fixed by DIY if it involves a drain or plumbing issue. To make repairs, your plumber will likely use video pipes inspection and long-reaching augers.