Toilet Troubleshooting Guide

It is pretty easy to diagnose a toilet problem. The toilet operation is simple and although the same symptom can often result from multiple causes, it doesn't take much time to figure which is causing the toilet to malfunction. While toilets clogs are straightforward; noises, odors, improper flushing or filling require an extra step or two in order to make a diagnosis. In the table below, locate the symptom your toilet exhibits and then follow the instructions for the possible causes. We've ordered the list with the most likely causes and easiest to check items first.

Symptom	Check Click on underlined items for further information
It periodically refills (or flushes) by itself	Read our article on leaks Check the flapper valve for proper seating Check the tank bolts for leaks Check the water line connection for leaks Check the tank gasket cracks
I hear water running	Read our article on leaks Inspect the overflow tube Lower the fill level in the tank Check the tank float Replace the tank valve Check the flapper valve
I have to jiggle the handle to make it stop	Check the flapper valve Check the handle linkage Check the tank float
It won't stop filling (or flushing)	The flapper is stuck open The fill valve is stuck on Check the tank float Lower the fill level in the tank
The toilet stops flushing before it should	The toilet flapper is closing too quickly Shorten the linkage to the toilet flapper Add a flapper float to the linkage chain to keep the flapper up during a flush. Once the water drains from the tank, the flapper will stay closed by suction from the drain until the next flush.
There is water on the floor, but it did not overflow	Read our article on refilling Check the water valve & tank connection Check the tank bolts Replace the tank gasket Replace the wax seal
The toilet bowl did not refill with enough water	Check that the fill tube is properly connected to the overflow tube Increase the fill level in the tank
The toilet bowl overflowed	Clear the drain with a plunger or closet auger
The tank overflowed	Check the overflow tube Check the spillway Check the tank float Replace the tank valve
Nothing happens when I push the handle	Check the lift chain If there is no water in the tank, check the flapper valve Tighten or replace the handle Check that the water supply valve is on
The tank does not refill	Check that the water supply valve is on Check the tank valve Check the tank float
The bowl is not completely flushed out	Increase the fill level in the tank Adjust the handle linkage Clear the drain
I smell an unpleasant odor	You may smell sewer gas. It can come from any drain in the bathroom. But if it is the toilet, then the wax ring is probably not properly sealed.
The toilet rocks back and forth	The flange bolts may be loose. Do not over tighten. The pedestal may need to be shimmed or plumber's putty can be added under the perimeter of the pedestal. The wax ring may not be sealed properly

Search for Articles on Acme How To