Your toilet operates on simple principles, but that doesn’t mean problems can’t occur. Sometimes, you won’t be able to flush it. Luckily, a flushing problem is usually an easy DIY project that won’t necessitate a call to the plumber. This guide explains three common causes of flush troubles and the plumbing supplies you’ll need to fix them.

Why Won’t My Toilet Flush?

1. Clogs

Too much waste and toilet paper may jam the drain. When you try to flush, the tank lets water into the bowl, but it can’t go down the drain if it’s clogged. Start by trying to free the clog with a plunger. If you can’t, the problem may originate further down the pipe. Use a drain snake from your local plumbing supplies source to remove stubborn clogs.

2. Aging or Broken Flapper

If the flapper that covers the drain hole at the bottom of the tank is loose or worn, it’ll permit water to leak slowly out of the tank into the bowl. Without enough water in the tank, your toilet won’t fully flush when you depress the lever.

Look inside the toilet bowl. If a steady stream of water is running down the sides, replace your worn flapper. Complete this easy-to-manage DIY project with plumbing supplies from your local home improvement store.

3. Snapped or Disconnected Chain

When you push the lever to flush the toilet, it pulls a chain that moves the flapper, allowing water in the tank to drain through a hole into the bowl. If this chain is disconnected, broken, or loose, the movement of the lever may be insufficient to lift the flapper. Remove the lid from the tank and adjust the chain until it’s taut enough to lift the flapper when the lever is depressed. If the chain is broken, replace it.

Whatever plumbing supplies you need, you can find them at A & R Home Center in Washington, IN. For nearly 50 years, this locally owned business has served the community by providing a full range of home improvement supplies at its welcoming retail outlet, including electrical, HVAC, automotive, and plumbing supplies. They also carry power tools and have a team of contractors for the projects you don’t want to tackle on your own. Learn more about their inventory online, and call (812) 254-7018 with any questions.