Is your toilet having issues? Is it running poorly, or running constantly? Do you want to troubleshoot it yourself? If so, then we have a few tips that may help you out.
Step 1: Remove the tank lid
Remove the tank lid and put it in a safe place to keep it from being broken. Be careful handling your tank lid because they are very fragile, can be heavy and sometimes slippery.
Step 2: Turn off the water
Before replacing or repairing any parts inside a toilet tank, make sure the water supply line to your toilet is shut off. The shut-off valve, also known as a supply valve or stop valve, is typically located on the wall or floor behind the toilet and usually on the left side. Turn the handle clockwise to shut the water off.
Step 3: Examine the toilet tank flush lever
Check to make sure the flush lever, also known as a trip lever, is tightly secured to the wall of the tank. If not secured tightly, you can reach into the tank and tighten the lock nut.
Step 4: Add a few drops of food coloring into the tank and wait 15 or 20 minutes
Adding a few drops of food coloring into the tank will help you determine if the tank is leaking water into the bowl. After adding the food coloring wait about 15-20 minutes. If you see food coloring, then water is definitely leaking into the bowl. You may want to check the flush valve as these can erode over time. If your flush valves looks fine then it could be something as simple as replacing the flapper, tank ball or seat disc.
Step 5: Remove the water from your tank
In order to check your flapper, tank ball or seat disc you will first need to remove the water in your tank. If you are environmentally concerned or water conscious, then use a small cup and bucket and use the extracted water from the tank to water your plants…
