How to Fix Flushing Problems

Water-saving toilets tend to experience flushing problems. The following simple service should improve performance. If it doesn't work, the vent pipe may be obstructed (see How to Clear a Clogged Plumbing Vent).

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Closet Auger
• Small Mirror And Copper Wire
• Screwdriver

1. Fully open the water supply's shutoff valve to assure that there is adequate water pressure and volume.

2. Clear any obstruction in the toilet trapway. Push a closet auger into the bowl opening until you feel an obstruction. Turn clockwise to screw the auger into the obstruction and draw it out.

3. Use a mirror to inspect the holes on the rim's underside during a flush. Clear any clogged holes with a piece of copper wire.

4. Adjust the water level until it's at the water line marked on the tank or overflow tube. Flush to test. To adjust water levels on plunger- or diaphragm-type fill valves with a float ball, either turn the adjustment screws on those models that have them or use both hands to bend the arm--down to lower the water level, up to raise it. For floatless models, turn the adjustment screw about a half turn at a time. For float-cup fill valves, pinch the spring clip to raise or lower the float.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear rubber gloves to protect your hands.
• At the proper height, the water level should be no more than 1/2 inch (12 mm) below the top of the overflow tube. If the tube's too long, cut it with a hacksaw. Some tubes unscrew. If yours doesn't, remove the flush valve to make the cut.