How to Fix a Slow Running Toilet
If your toilet is running slowly or lost its flushing power, it may have blocked flush passages. Flush passages are small holes located under the bowl rim that shoot water into the bowl when the toilet is flushed. Over time, they can become clogged with grime and mineral deposits. Here are some ways to clear the flush passages and fix the slow toilet. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Rubber gloves
- Hand-held or dental mirror
- Wire
- Duct tape
- Vinegar
- Stiff brush
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Instructions
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Clear Flush Passages With Wire
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1
Put on rubber gloves.
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2
Hold a small mirror or dental mirror under the underside of the toilet bowl rim to locate the flush passages. Look for holes that are clogged with hard water or mineral deposits.
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3
Cut a piece of wire, either from a coat hanger or roll of wire. Make it long enough that you can fit it into the hole without your hands getting in the water.
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4
Place the wire into the clogged hole. Move it around in a circular motion to clear out the hole. Repeat on each clogged hole.
Clear Flush Passages With Vinegar
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5
Turn off the water to the toilet. Empty the tank.
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6
Place strips of duct tape over the flush passages.
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7
Pour a quart of vinegar into the flush valve. Let it sit overnight.
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8
Remove the strips of tape. Clean any residue with a stiff brush. Turn the water on.
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Tips & Warnings
Throw the mirror away, or put it in a labeled plastic bag. Because of germs, the mirror should not be used for any other projects besides unclogging flush passages.
