Have you noticed that your toilet is taking longer to refill after flushing? This is a common toilet problem with numerous possible culprits. Fortunately, none of them are major concerns or expensive to address. Follow this guide to get your slow toilet functioning properly again.
How to Repair a Slow-Filling Toilet
Understanding why your toilet is slow to refill is the first step toward fixing it. Keep in mind these possible reasons and the best way to handle each one.
Partially Closed Water Supply Valve
Check behind the toilet for the water supply line connected to the wall. You’ll see a valve connecting to it, which enables you to turn off the water during toilet repairs and replacements. Check this valve to make sure it’s completely open.
Problems with the Fill Valve or Tube
The fill valve, which is close to the top of a vertical tube device in the toilet tank, regulates the water level flowing into the tank. A toilet fill valve might break down, clog or slip out of alignment after years of use, hindering the tank from filling appropriately. Follow these tips to adjust, unclog or fix the fill valve:
- Locate the fill valve: Lift the toilet tank lid and find the fill valve inside. It’s usually installed on the left side with a tailpiece extending through the bottom of the tank and linking to the supply tube and shut-off valve.
- Adjust the fill valve: Be certain the fill valve is secure and evenly connected to the tube. Adjust the fill valve height if needed by twisting the adjustment knob (found in newer toilets) or use a flathead screwdriver to loosen and adjust (required for older toilets). Next, make sure the water level is about one inch below the top of the overflow tube.
- Clear debris from the fill valve: To remove mineral accumulation and other dirt from the valve, first shut off the water in the rear of the toilet and remove the fill cap. Then, slowly turn the water back on, cupping your hand over the valve to prevent from being sprayed by the water. Allow the water to flow for a few seconds to flush out dirt. Next, scrub away mineral buildup from the fill cap. If you notice cracks or excessive wear and tear, replace the valve.
- Clean the valve tube: Debris lodged in the valve tube could also be at fault. Turn off the water supply and remove the valve hardware. Then, run a thin wire or bottle brush into the tube. Open the water supply slightly to flush away the leftover residue. Reconnect the valve hardware and check if the toilet fills faster now.
Waterlogged Float Ball
The float ball in older toilet models rises with the water level, closing the fill valve whenever the tank has filled. If the float ball is damaged or punctured and fills with water, it keeps the tank from filling efficiently.
Take off the tank lid and peek inside. A partially sunken float ball may be waterlogged. Prior to replacing the ball, examine the float arm it’s secured to. If the arm is pointed too low in the tank, bend it up slightly to lift the ball’s height.
If this doesn’t work, then it might be time to just replace the component entirely. Just be aware that this is an older toilet design, so it may be better to upgrade the existing tank hardware or replace the toilet altogether.
Plugged Plumbing Vent
Your home plumbing system includes vents that permit air to enter the pipes. If they are clogged, stress may build inside of the pipes, preventing the water from flowing. This can, in turn, make your toilet fill at a snail's pace or even cause the bowl to flood.
You should grab a ladder and climb up on the roof to search for clogged plumbing vents. Start looking for long, vertical PVC pipes poking up from the shingles. Do away with any animal nests, deep snow or other obstructions you see to help your plumbing work as intended.
Leaky or Blocked Pipe
If you can’t find anything wrong with the water supply valve, fill valve and tube, float ball or plumbing vents, the slow toilet problem could stem from your supply pipes. A leak or blockage in the water line could stop your toilet tank from filling appropriately. It’s safest to hire a licensed plumber to handle these issues.
Schedule Toilet Repair with Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning
Is your toilet still not working right? Turn to Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning for dependable toilet repair in Memphis. We can figure out the reason why this is happening and perform the most appropriate repair. If the fixture has reached the end of its typical life span, our specialists can recommend high-efficiency toilet replacement in Memphis. We’ll help you decide on the replacement model and install it on your behalf. You can relax knowing that every job we complete is supported by a 100% satisfaction guarantee! To schedule a visit from us, please connect with Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning today.