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For many homeowners, the number one reason for scheduling a service appointment with a plumber is because their toilet won’t flush. While a professional can help diagnose and fix the problem quickly, if you’re handy with home repairs, you may be able to handle some simple toilet repair tasks on your own. Here are a few of the most common reasons your toilet won’t flush and what you can do to fix the problem.

4 Reasons Your Toilet Won’t Flush (& the Simple Toilet Repair Tricks to Fix Them)

1. You Have a Clogged Basin

Toilet RepairEveryone has experienced a clogged toilet at some point in their lives. Too much toilet paper can easily block the pipe, keeping water from flowing into the sewer. Instead of making a panicked call to a plumber, use a plunger to work the clog free. It may take a few minutes, but most clogs can be fixed without a professional-grade plumbing snake.

2. The Lift Chain Won’t Catch

If you’ve ever tried to flush a toilet only to discover there’s no tension on the lever, you’re not alone. The lift chain allows the lever on the outside of the toilet to operate and control the flapper inside the tank. Over time, the chain can loosen, causing the toilet not to flush. Unlike most toilet repair tasks, you don’t need any tools to fix a loose chain. Simply open the tank from the top, shorten the length of the chain, and try flushing again. Once the chain is at an ideal length, your toilet will be working again.

3. Low Water Level in the Tank Prevents Flushing

If there’s not enough water in your toilet, the flapper won’t be able to work efficiently. This means your toilet may not flush at all. If the water looks low in the tank, check the water valve on the outside of the toilet. Sometimes, these valves can be accidentally shut off when cleaning. If the valve is off, open it back up and wait for the tank to fill. If the valve is open and you’re still experiencing issues, call a toilet repair expert, as you may need to replace a component in your toilet.

4. Your Flapper Won’t Create a Seal

The flapper seals the opening in your tank that controls the water flow into the basin. If you’ve heard a running sound coming from your toilet and noticed low water levels in the tank, you may need to replace your flapper. A local hardware store will have a suitable replacement, but if you’re unsure about handling the repair yourself, contact a plumbing service.

 

GNG Plumbing and The Hardware Store has helped residents across Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, and southern Alabama with all their residential plumbing needs for over 30 years. Let their dedicated staff handle your toilet repair needs and schedule an appointment today. Call (251) 974-5630 to speak with a member of their team, and visit them online for more information about their services.

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