How to Fix a Toilet
Keep it running like new.
Toilet problems can be stressful. Before calling a plumber, see if you can diagnose and fix the problem yourself. Read our guide to learn how to fix a toilet.
First, determine what is wrong and what the "symptoms" are. Is your toilet running constantly? Has a weak flush? Won't refill? Clogged? Each requires a different solution. Learn more below.
Before You Begin
How to Fix a Toilet With a Weak Flush
How to Fix a Toilet That Won't Refill
How to Fix a Toilet That Is Constantly Running
How to Fix a Clogged Toilet
Before You Begin
Understand the different parts of a toilet to ensure you are fixing, cleaning, or replacing the right part. Please note that in some states you must be a licensed plumber to install new plumbing.
If your toilet flush is weaker than normal, it may be because minerals are building up in the rim feed or jet holes of the toilet bowl. We recommend turning off the water supply, holding the flapper open to remove the water from the tank and then pouring 1-2 cups of cleaning solution down the flush valve opening. Let it sit overnight. Then turn the water back on and let the tank refill. Flush the toilet a few times to remove the cleaning solution. If cleaning solution gets into your tank while pouring, wipe it up.
Another option is to use a wire hanger to poke into the feed holes under the toilet bowl rim. This will scrape away and loosen any build up.
How to Fix a Toilet That Won't Refill
Your fill valve likely has some build up or needs to be replaced (as they typically only last seven years). To check for debris, hold onto the fill valve shaft with your hand and use your wrist to prop the float up, then with your other hand, twist the valve top off so you can see if there is any debris in the fill valve openings or the cover cap. You may need a pair of tweezers to remove any debris that is clogging the openings. Then take a cup and place it upside down over the fill valve opening. The cup is used to keep the water from splashing all over your bathroom. Keeping the cup in place, turn the water back on at the supply line and let it run for 30 seconds to flush out debris. Please note the water will spray straight up into the cup. Shut the water back off and clean out any new debris in the fill valve. Once it's clean, replace the cap and turn the water back on again.
How to Fix a Toilet That Is Constantly Running
If your toilet is running, your flapper may need to be replaced. This is an easy fix and you just need a flapper that is compatible with your toilet brand. The other thing that could be happening is the chain is getting stuck between the flapper and flush valve leaving a small gap where water is leaking out. If this is happening, you can trim the chain with wire cutters so there is less slack in the line. Just make sure the chain is long enough so it still allows the flapper to close.
If water is going into your overflow tube, you might need to adjust the float. If the float is too high, too much water will be coming into your tank. To lower the float cup or ball (depending on the design of your toilet), turn the adjustment screw with a screwdriver. Typically, you must turn it counterclockwise. The water in the tank should be one inch lower than the top of the overflow tube opening.
If both of these approaches don't work. You will need a new fill valve. Reach out to a local plumber to replace it for you.
How to Fix a Clogged Toilet
A clogged toilet may start to back up and fill the bowl with water. If this happens, turn off the water at the supply valve immediately. You can also take the tank lid off and close the flapper. Take a plunger and gently push down to get rid of the air (and to not push dirty water back at you!). Then pump the plunger forcefully up and down, but make sure to keep the seal intact. After a few pumps, pull the plunger up quickly and forcefully to break the air seal. If the water does not rush down the drain, try doing this a few more times.
If the plunger still won't work, put one cup of baking soda into the clogged toilet bowl. After a few minutes, add two cups of vinegar into the toilet bowl. Allow this mixture to sit for a few minutes (it may fizz and make bubbles – that's okay!), then flush the toilet.
If the two steps above still didn't unclog your toilet, try using a plumbing snake (also called an auger) to get rid of the clog. To do this, place the head of the toilet snake into the toilet bowl and turn the handle clockwise. Wind the snake back when you feel resistance. Repeat this until the clog has loosened and the toilet can flush easily.
Tip!
Sometimes the solution to the problem is a new toilet. We can help you find the right one. Read our "Toilet Buying Guide" and "Toilet Dimensions & Measurements to Know" guides to learn more.
