Household plumbing issues are a burden no one wants to deal with, which is why you ought to be aware of poorly functioning appliances. Toilets, in particular, need to remain in tiptop shape to prevent serious problems down the line.
So, to help you stay on top of things and save yourself the trouble and costs, we have assembled a list of the most common causes of toilet problems you should be aware of.
Leaks
If you find any leaks around your toilet, the first thing you should check for is cracks in the tank. Finding water anywhere you shouldn’t is a sign that your toilet is malfunctioning. Broken or cracked tanks are the leading cause of leaks. If you neglect your toilet tank, you may need to opt for a new appliance entirely. Pay attention to whether the valve can fill up the tank and inspect your pipes for leakage as well. Moreover, worn washer bolts can cause puddles under your toilet tank if left undetected. Take a look at the bolts and feel the tank for leaks as it may just require a bolt tightening to stop a leak.
Clogs
Clogs are among the most common toilet problems homeowners experience. Knowing how to unblock your bathroom drain can save you from dealing with a clogged toilet, which in turn, will cause even bigger problems. Blocked drains can be the result of the excessive flushing of toilet paper or foreign objects such as toys, menstrual pads or diapers, cotton, food, and hair. While you can do your best to be mindful of what you flush down your drains, you can look into simple ways to unclog your toilets yourself.
Worn-out Parts
Like any other appliance, your toilet needs upgrades and repairs, too. Over time, the functions of a toilet begin to wear out. Some parts begin to malfunction and cause various issues. Therefore, leaks, clogs, and other unusual activities can be the result of an underlying problem.
For instance, your toilet’s flapper valve, which is responsible for filling up the toilet bowl after a flush, can begin to malfunction as it wears down over time. However, there may be some defects that were already there when you purchased the toilet. Invariably, this will cause your toilet to either overflow or stop running water. You can consider adjusting the valve or hiring a plumber. Other parts that begin to wear out over time are the rubber linings that slowly wear away.
Calcium Buildup
Calcium buildup, or mineral deposits, happens over time and, although it poses no serious threat, it can cause your toilet to clog, especially if the buildup is in the pipes. The rim of your toilet will have rust color stains from water that sits still for a long time period. The lower part of the toilet bowl will show the symptoms. You can remove the calcium deposits by scrubbing them away without scratching the porcelain. You can use several home remedies such as vinegar, baking soda, or cola. If the problem persists, you can consider hiring a plumber to take care of it.
A toilet is one of the most important fixtures in any bathroom, and it is crucial to keep it in good condition because its repairs can be extremely costly, not to mention that replacements are difficult and time-consuming. Keeping an eye out for the above issues will save you a lot of hassle and money in the long run and prevent any unnecessary disruptions to your daily life.
