Mississauga's Plumbing 101: Guide to Repairing Your Toilet in a Pinch
Mississauga's Plumbing 101: Guide to Repairing Your Toilet in a Pinch
Every homeowner in Mississauga knows that a well-functioning toilet is not a luxury, but a necessity. When your toilet has issues, it can be a significant source of stress, not to mention the potential damage and cost implications. To help you navigate such situations, this guide will take you through some basic steps you can take to repair your toilet when you're in a pinch.
Understanding Your Toilet System
First, it is crucial to understand how your toilet works. The toilet is a simple fixture engineered to channel fresh water in and wastewater out. It has two main parts: the toilet bowl and the tank. The water you see in the bowl is what keeps sewer gases from entering your home. The tank, on the other hand, is where water remains until you flush, when it is released into the bowl to wash away waste.
Common Toilet Problems and Their Fixes
1. Phantom Flushes
A phantom flush is when your toilet flushes on its own. This is usually due to a slow leak from the toilet tank to the bowl. The solution? Check your fill tube to ensure it's not too long or it might be submerged. Also, ensure your flapper, which seals water into the tank, is not worn out and replace if necessary.
2. Water Trickles into the Tank
If you hear a sustained hissing sound, that often indicates water trickling into your tank via the supply line. In this case, check the float, refill tube and ballcock or inlet-valve assembly. You might need to replace the entire ballcock assembly if it cannot be repaired.
3. Weak Flusher
An under-performing flusher is usually an early-model toilet issue. For a quick fix, replace your toilet with a modern model for more flushing power or try removing mineral deposits from the jet holes under the rim of the bowl.
4. Clogs and Partial Clogs
Nothing quite matches the dread of a clogged toilet. Thankfully, most clogs can be dealt with using a good plunger or a toilet auger for stubborn clogs. If these don’t work, it may be indicative of a larger issue with your sewer line, which requires professional attention.
5. Overflowing Toilet
An overflowing toilet is a plumbing emergency that requires immediate attention. First, stop the flow of water by shutting off the water supply valve, usually located behind the toilet. Next, use a plunger to unclog and drain the water. If the issue persists, call a professional plumber right away.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
There are circumstances when it's best to hire a professional plumber. If you encounter frequent toilet clogs, or if your toilet is leaking (water pooling around the base of the toilet), these may indicate a broader issue beyond your toilet unit. Additionally, if your toilet runs continually, making a whistling or hissing sound, it's time to call a professional. Toilet repairs can be tricky, and the cost of a botched DIY repair can be far more than you'd pay a professional.
Prevention Is Better Than Cure
Preventing toilet problems begins with mindful use. Avoid flushing anything other than human waste and toilet paper to avoid clogs. Regular cleaning aids in spotting potential leaks or issues early. Also, inspect your toilet's components like flappers and fill valves annually to ensure functionality.
Need help with your plumbing issues in your Mississauga home? TBA Plumbing Inc is here to assist. We offer expert toilet repair services to keep your plumbing system running smoothly. Our team of skilled plumbers can diagnose and resolve any toilet issue, ensuring you enjoy the comfort of a well-functioning bathroom. Don't let a malfunctioning toilet disrupt your day – give us a call today.
