I waited until I was in my 30’s to get married and when I did I ended up marrying a pilot who is frequently out of town. Consequently, I have learned how to fix many appliances on my own. (Did I mention that I also loathe calling “professionals” because I know it will mean a major hit to our household budget?) In the past decade I have learned to fix everything from vacuum cleaners to washing machines and dryers. I am by no means an expert, but there have been some situations that I have faced repeatedly over the years, most of them involve toilets.
I’m not sure if it’s because I have lived in mediocre apartments and townhouses for most of my adult life or that toilets just like to torment me, regardless of the reason, over time I have learned a few tricks that may assist you, especially if you have a temperamental toilet and a husband who can’t drop everything at the office to rush home and play Mr. Fix-It.
LEAKY TOILETS
If you hear a dripping sound coming from the toilet but there’s no sign of water leaking anywhere here’s what you can do:
1. Lift off the tank lid and check the water level. If the water is near the top of the overflow tube the problem is likely a malfunctioning fill valve.
2. If the water level is at a normal level then the leak is likely at the bottom of the tank near the flapper or flush valve. Inspect the opening it sits on for cracks or other obstructions while you clean the valve seat and the flapper.
3. If you have followed steps 1 and 2 and the leak persists there is one more step you can take before calling a plumber—head to a hardware store for replacement parts or a quick-fix kit. While you are there you can enlist help from store employees. I have had great success when store managers talk me through toilet repairs.
FAULTY FLUSHING
Simple things can affect your toilet’s flushability. Most people think that the reason a toilet isn’t flushing correctly is because the water pressure is too low. I can’t tell you how many times I have done this (you’d think I would learn the first time). But, you may be surprised to learn that the pressure has nothing to do with it. When a toilet isn’t working correctly it’s likely because it’s not getting enough water from the tank.
Here’s what you can do before you call a plumber:
1. Check the tank. If the level seems low adjust it by raising the float.
2. If that doesn’t do the trick then carefully inspect the water ports under the rim. The holes may simply be clogged with mineral deposits or residual cleaning products. To unclog the holes clean each one with a wire coat hanger dipped in white vinegar or Clorox.
3. Once you set the proper water level and have cleaned the rim ports, chances are you’re faulty flushing will be a thing of the past.