Did you know that over 30% of the water used in a typical household goes down the toilet - literally? If you have a leaky toilet reservoir, it could cost you hundreds of dollars in just a year.
The smart thing to do is to call a plumber at the first sign of trouble. Our team has the tools and experience to handle a wide variety of toilet malfunctions, including the ones that could cost you the most.
There are many things that can cause a leaky toilet tank. The toilet tank is sealed by a flapper which can itself crack and malfunction, along with a seal that can corrode over time. More common though are issues relating to the pull mechanism. A stuck handle can prevent the chain from relaxing entirely, which will keep water running. The float mechanism, either a float valve or a ballcock assembly, is another common culprit. A mechanical malfunction can prevent the assembly from lifting properly, which means the water will fill continuously, spill over into the overflow tube, and keep going. While some of these issues can be quickly diagnosed and fixed by an average homeowner, part replacements are generally better left to the professionals.
When a toilet clogs, it can result in the bowl overflowing and causing water damage to your floor and cabinetry. The best course of action depends on a few factors, including whether the toilet clogs frequency, the age of your pipes, and the water level.
If the level is low enough and your pipes are in good condition. there is nothing wrong with attempting to plunge it. A master plunger is generally the way to go, since it lets you drive more force behind each plunge, and the compressive action can help dislodge stubborn clogs. However, if the water level is too high you can cause serious overflow, and if your pipes are older the extra pressure could damage them. Plus, it can be a little gross, if you're not used to that kind of work.
The next option is to use a closet augur or drain snake. This tool can help you remove clogs deeper into the pipes, though it can be a little cumbersome to use. This is generally a very safe approach to toilet drain cleaning.
Whatever you do, don't attempt to use any liquid drain cleaners. Many of the chemicals found in these cleaners can cause lasting corrosive damage to your pipes, greatly accelerating the time until your next repipe.
If the clog is too stubborn to eliminate using common household tools, or whether you've got a recurring clog, call in our Sunnyvale plumbers. With the help of our highly effective power augurs we can clear out even the toughest clogs, as well as the deepest clogs, without damaging your pipes.
It can be difficult shopping for a toilet if you don't know exactly what you're looking for. We can help you choose a toilet based on water usage, height, and size that makes sense for your budget and fits your bathroom like a glove. We can also help you explore eco-friendly options, including low flow toilets, power assist toilets, and dual flush toilets.
If you're ready to put your toilet problems to rest, or to get a new toilet installed that will work every bit as well as you could hope for, call our Sunnyvale plumbing team. We've been repairing and installing toilets from day one, and we think that experience shows.
