Your toilet is one of the most-used appliances in your home, so when it starts malfunctioning, you can’t afford to let the problem fester. Leaking toilets can cause you to lose hundreds of gallons of water, which gets quite expensive over time. They can also cause damage to the floors and walls if left unaddressed.
Not every toilet issue will require a plumber. Some toilet problems simply require a new part, while others need the help of a professional. Here’s a quick guide to fixing a broken toilet in Modesto, CA.
It runs constantly
Your toilet should only run to fill up the tank and bowl after flushing. If you keep hearing the water running even after it’s done filling, that means water is escaping the tank. Open the tank and look for the round rubber part that covers the drainage hole. If this is cracked, warped or otherwise broken, simply replace the flapper and your problem should be solved.
It flushes all by itself
Have you ever heard your toilet flush even when no one is using it? This is a sign that you could have a bad flush valve gasket, a leaking flapper, too much water in the tank or a leaky tank. Unless you’re a plumber yourself, you’ll probably want to call local plumbing services in Modesto, CA to get this fixed. These repairs are simple enough, but you could find yourself replacing multiple parts unnecessarily. A plumber will be able to fix the problem without wasting money on other types of repairs.
It makes a choking sound when flushing
Does your toilet sound like it’s gasping or choking when you flush? If it’s struggling to flush, that indicates a clog in the plumbing. Luckily, this can often be fixed with a simple plunger. You can purchase one (often for $5 or less) at any local home goods or hardware store. If the clog is deeper within the system, then you may need to call a plumber.
As always, you can prevent clogs by making sure you only flush human waste and toilet paper down the toilet. Paper towels, baby wipes and feminine hygiene products will cause clogs.
There’s water leaking
If you’ve noticed water around the base of your toilet, there’s a leak happening. It could be from the supply valve (the line that connects to the wall), or where the tank and bowl connect. This kind of repair is best left to the professionals.
It’s overflowing
If your toilet overflows more than once every few months, you probably have a deep clog in your sewer line. Look at your shower drain to see if it backs up when you try to flush the toilet. This is a repair that requires the help of a plumber, and it’s best to address it as soon as you notice a problem.
When you need fast, reliable plumbing services in Modesto, CA, call the crew at Alvarado Pumping Septic Service. We’ve been assisting area homeowners and business owners for over a decade—reach out to schedule an appointment!