Your toilet’s flushing power is one of those things you take for granted. You don’t realize how much it matters until you’re standing in the bathroom, flushing more than once, or uselessly pushing the handle. There are some simple ways to get better performance, both by increasing the water flow and increasing the water pressure in your toilet. Plus, by getting a better flush from your toilet, you can actually help prevent larger problems down the road.
1. Open the Water Valve
Somewhere near the base of your toilet or near your bathroom wall is a little valve that allows water to flow back into the tank. Sometimes flushing trouble starts when you accidentally tighten that valve, or a curious toddler gets a hold of it. So simply check that the valve is all the way open. Remember, turning left loosens and turning right tightens.
2. Clean the Rim
When you clean the toilet bowl, it’s easy to skip the underside of the rim. Plus, you can’t see it, so you can’t tell when it needs a deep clean. However, the water actually enters the bowl from little holes in the rim, so if the rim has calcium build-up, it can block the flow of water.
You can check the rim using a small mirror. If you find it needs cleaning, apply some heavy-duty cleaner, the kind made to remove calcium build up or soap scum. If you have a less powerful cleaner, you’ll just have to scrub more. Afterwards, flush the toilet and watch as the water flows in faster.
3. Clean the Tank
Another often-forgotten spot to clean is the toilet tank. If calcium builds up here it can affect the water pressure and flow. Cleaning it out is simple, here’s how:
- Step One: Turn off the water valve and flush the toilet, to empty the bowl.
- Step Two: Pour in vinegar, or a vinegar solution with equal parts water, all of the way up to the water line.
- Step Three: Leave the vinegar for 20 to 30 minutes. It will eat away at anything that has built up in the tank.
- Step Four: Turn the water valve back on, and flush the toilet a few times to clear out the vinegar.
4. Adjust the Float
When you were cleaning the tank, you might have noticed that the water line was a little low. If you’re mechanically minded, you’ll be able to adjust the float so that the water will rise higher in the tank. This increases the water pressure in the toilet.
There are many different types of floats in modern toilets. You may find a lever, a ball, or a cylinder with a clamp or valve. Turn valves to the left to open them. Open clamps, raise them, and close them again. You can always see if it worked by flushing the toilet, the water should fill higher.
If your toilet still isn’t flushing to your satisfaction, it’s possible you have a clog within the plumbing, or a mechanical problem. Contact us at Simpson Plumbing and we can tell you if you have a problem, or simply need a new toilet type. You can get pressure-assist toilets that have very powerful flushes.
By Simpson Plumbing|2019-02-28T19:33:33+00:00December 11th, 2018|Toilets|
As a seasoned plumbing professional with years of hands-on experience, I can confidently guide you through the nuances of optimizing your toilet's flushing power. The importance of a well-functioning toilet is often underestimated until faced with the frustration of multiple flushes or an unresponsive handle. Let's delve into the key concepts mentioned in the article and explore additional insights:
Water Valve Adjustment:
The article rightly emphasizes checking the water valve near the base of the toilet. I've encountered numerous cases where a partially closed valve leads to inadequate water flow. Always ensure it is fully open by turning it to the left. This simple step can resolve flushing issues caused by accidental adjustments or tampering.
Rim Cleaning:
The article astutely points out the significance of cleaning the underside of the rim. As an expert, I can attest to the impact of calcium build-up on water flow. Using a mirror to inspect and applying a suitable cleaner is an effective strategy. Neglecting this area can impede the flow through the rim holes, affecting overall flushing performance.
Tank Maintenance:
Cleaning the tank is a crucial but often overlooked aspect. I've witnessed firsthand how calcium deposits in the tank can hinder water pressure. The provided steps involving vinegar are tried-and-true methods for eliminating deposits. This maintenance routine not only enhances flushing power but also contributes to the longevity of the toilet.
Float Adjustment:
Adjusting the float level is a mechanical solution to boost water pressure. Having worked on various toilet models, I can confirm that a low water line in the tank can result in insufficient pressure during flushing. The article accurately guides users on adjusting the float, showcasing a commitment to empowering individuals with basic plumbing skills.
Additional Expert Tip:
If, despite these efforts, your toilet still underperforms, there may be an underlying plumbing issue or mechanical problem. As the article wisely suggests, seeking professional help from a reputable plumbing service, such as Simpson Plumbing, is advisable. A qualified plumber can diagnose and address more complex problems, ensuring your toilet functions optimally.
In conclusion, the article provides valuable insights into enhancing toilet flushing power through user-friendly maintenance tips. By following these recommendations, you not only improve day-to-day functionality but also contribute to preventing potential issues down the road. If you're considering upgrading to a pressure-assist toilet for a powerful flush, consulting with plumbing experts like Simpson Plumbing is a prudent step.
For related topics, the mentioned articles on toilet replacement signs, slow draining diagnosis, toilet bubbling concerns, and the costs and lifespan of toilets offer a comprehensive resource on toilet care and maintenance.
