Why Isn’t My Toilet Flushing? 

Aug 5, 2022 | Dayton, Emergency Plumber, Five Star, Ohio, Plumbing, Plumbing Services, Tips & Tricks, Toilet

Toilets are one of the most frequently used fixtures in your home. So, If you have run into the issue of a toilet that isn’t flushing, trying to determine the problems can be frustrating, especially if you’re not sure what to look for. Luckily, our team of experts at Five Star Dayton Plumbing have provided some common reason why your toilet may not be flushing. 

Does Your Lift Chain Have Too Much Slack? 

Do you feel any resistance when you push the handle to flush your toilet? If not, the lift chain inside your toilet tank has shifted and now has too much slack. The lift chain is connected to the flapper and releases water when the handle is pressed down. The best solution is to take off the tank lid and shorten the chain until there is no more slack between the handle and the flapper.   

Is Your Toilet Clogged? 

In many homes across America, one of the most common reasons why a toilet isn’t flushing is because it is clogged. When a toilet is clogged, it is ultimately caused by large amounts of toilet paper or items that shouldn’t be flushed, such as paper towels, feminine hygiene products, “flushable wipes,” and much more. The best way to remove a clog is to plunge it out or use a toilet brush to clear it out.  

Are the Water Levels Low in Your Toilet Bowl? 

For a successful flush, nearly all toilets require a minimum of 80% of the tank’s total capacity to have a successful flush. Therefore, if you’re experiencing partial to no flushes at all, your toilet’s tank is not filling efficiently. The ideal solution in these circumstances is to check your overflow tube and fill valve. Start by lifting the tank lid and ensuring the water level is within an inch or two of the top of the overflow tube and ensure the tube is not cracked. If there are any damages to these pieces of equipment, it is best to give your local plumbing contractor a call to have them correctly repair or replace them. 

When is it Time to Call the Professionals? 

All in all, there could be several reasons your toilet is clogged or not flushing. If your toilet is still struggling even after reviewing these issues, it is time to give the professionals at Five Star Dayton Plumbing a call. We serve the entire Greater Dayton Area with high-quality plumbing services at rates the others can’t beat. Give us a call today at (937) 230-6506 or schedule an appointment by clicking here!