Have you noticed that your toilet is taking longer to refill after flushing? This is a known toilet issue with numerous possible causes. Luckily, none of them are major concerns or costly to deal with. Follow this guide to get your slow toilet functioning efficiently again.
How to Address a Slow-Filling Toilet
Learning why your toilet is slow to refill is your first step toward fixing it. Think about these possible reasons and the best way to handle each one.
Partially Closed Water Supply Valve
Look behind the toilet for the water supply line attached to the wall. You’ll find a valve connecting to it, which helps you to close off the water when your toilet is being repaired or replaced. Examine the value to ensure it is fully open.
Problems with the Fill Valve or Tube
The fill valve, which is attached to the top of a vertical tube device in the toilet tank, controls the water flow into the tank. A toilet fill valve might wear out, clog or move out of alignment after years of use, preventing the tank from filling appropriately. Follow these tips to adjust, clean or fix the fill valve:
- Locate the fill valve: Open the toilet tank lid and find the fill valve inside. It’s normally secured on the left side with a tailpiece extending through the bottom of the tank and linking to the supply tube and shut-off valve.
- Adjust the fill valve: Make sure the fill valve is secure and evenly attached to the tube. Alter the fill valve height if required by turning the adjustment knob (found in newer toilets) or loosening the adjustment screw with a flathead screwdriver (required for older toilets). Then, check that the water level is approximately one inch below the top of the overflow tube.
- Clear debris from the fill valve: To eliminate mineral accumulation and other dirt from the valve, first shut off the water in the rear of the toilet and remove the fill cap. Right after that, slowly turn the water back on, cupping your hand over the valve to avoid getting sprayed. Let some water flow for a few seconds to flush out debris. Next, scrub away mineral buildup from the fill cap. If you detect cracks or substantial wear and tear, replace the valve.
- Clean the valve tube: Dirt lodged in the valve tube could also be at fault. Turn off the water supply and remove the valve hardware. Next, run a thin wire or bottle brush down the tube. Open the water supply slightly to rinse away the excess residue. Reconnect the valve hardware and see if the toilet fills properly.
Waterlogged Float Ball
The float ball in older toilet models rises with the water level, sealing the fill valve when the tank is full. If the float ball takes on water, it blocks the tank from filling efficiently.
Remove the tank lid and look inside. A partially sunken float ball might be waterlogged. Before you replace the ball, examine the float arm it’s secured to. If the arm is fixed too low in the tank, bend it up somewhat to raise the ball’s height.
If that does not do the trick, you may be able to install a new float ball. Just be aware that this is an older toilet design, so it may well be better to upgrade the existing tank hardware or change out the toilet entirely.
Plugged Plumbing Vent
Your home plumbing system includes vents that permit air to enter the pipes. If they become clogged, stress may build throughout the pipes, stopping the water from flowing. This can, in turn, make your toilet fill at a snail's pace or even cause the bowl to flood.
You'll need to jump up on the roof to look for clogged plumbing vents. Look for long, vertical PVC pipes poking up from the tiles. Clear away any animal nests, deep snow or other obstructions you notice to ensure your plumbing works properly.
Leaky or Blocked Pipe
If there's nothing apparently wrong with the water supply valve, fill valve and tube, float ball or plumbing vents, the slow toilet dilemma could stem from your supply pipes. A leak or blockage in the water line could restrict your toilet tank from filling properly. It’s a good idea to hire a licensed plumber to handle these issues.
Schedule Toilet Repair with Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning
If these tips did not handle your issue, look to Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning for reliable toilet repair in North America. We can identify the reason why the water flow is so slow and perform a budget-friendly repair. If the fixture has come to the end of its typical life span, our specialists can suggest high-efficiency toilet replacement in North America. We’ll help you decide on the replacement model and install it for you. Relax knowing that every job we perform is backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee! To schedule a visit from us, please call Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning today.