Your toilets are engineering marvels, yet many homeowners take them for granted – until they don’t work. Fortunately, while toilets may be misunderstood, their simple technology makes most problems easy to fix. Sure, you may need a plumber for some issues, but just as often, you can visit DIY land successfully.
How does a toilet work?
The two main parts of your toilet are the tank and the bowl. The bowl, where you sit, holds water and sends it and waste to drain. A toilet tank sits on top of the bowl and holds reserve water for flushing. It adds clean water to the bowl and refills when you flush.
The fill valve connects to the flush lever. It activates the flush, flows water into the tank, and stays activated until the tank fills up. Anytime you flush, and the fresh water enters the bowl, the fill valve stays on to maintain the water level in the tank.
A toilet flapper is a seal between the tank and the bowl. It is also connected to the flush lever and opens when you flush. A small chain attaches it, and many flushing problems are due to this chain disconnecting.
What are common problems?
The basic explanation above will help you fix most toilet issues. Our customers often call us for help when toilets:
- Fail to fill up
- Don’t flush
- Develop clogs
When toilets don’t fill or flush, it is often related to the fill valve or flapper. Many times, all you need to do is reattach the flapper chain to the flush arm. Sometimes, you may find the flapper is worn. It is also not unusual to find your flush lever is no longer functional. Fortunately, you can replace them with parts found at hardware stores.
For clogs, your basic household plunger can do the trick. But if not, call a plumber to get everything flowing again! Knight’s Mechanical is here to help. We offer the experience and expertise to keep your plumbing intact. Call us today if you need help with toilets or other plumbing fixtures in your home.
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