How to Fix a Poorly Flushing Toilet

A toilet that won't flush properly can be caused by several things. Fortunately, the most common causes of a poorly flushing toilet are relatively easy to fix. The important thing is to determine what is the actual cause behind why the toilet is having trouble with its flush.

Things You'll Need

• Adjustable wrench
• Handle
• Chain cutters
• Vinegar
• Toothbrush

Instructions

1. Check to make sure that the flapper and tank ball are adjusted correctly if the problem is that flushes are not being completed. If they are, remove the chain from the handle lever. Remove the nut located on the rear of the handle using an adjustable wrench. On most toilets this nut unthreads clockwise rather than counter-clockwise. Once the nut has been removed, remove the old handle and replace with a new one.

2. Turn off the stop valve. Reposition the chain hook on the handle lever if the handle lever cannot be pulled straight up on the flapper. A little slack should exist on the chain when the flapper covers the opening. If there is too much slack, shorten the chain and trim away any excess with cutters. Turn the water on at the stop valve and test to see if the toilet flushes.

3. Test the handle to see if it sticks or is difficult to use when flushing. Remove the handle and clean it with vinegar, using a toothbrush to scrub thoroughly. Replace the handle and test it. If the handle still sticks or remains difficult to use, you will need to replace it.

4. Bend the float arm down slightly. This will cause it to depress the plunger at a lower tank water level. This approach very often helps to fix a toilet with an improper flush caused by the float ball or cup failing to cause the water to shut off when the toilet tank becomes full.