Common Toilets Problems

• Running Toilet — Try This First:
  If your toilet keeps running, lift the tank lid and check the flapper — it’s the rubber seal at the bottom of the tank. Make sure it’s sealing properly. If it’s worn or cracked, you can buy a new flapper at any hardware store for a few dollars and swap it out in minutes. Also, check that the chain isn’t tangled or too short — adjust it so the flapper can close fully.

• Leaking at the Base — What You Can Do:
  If you notice water around the base of the toilet, first make sure it’s not just condensation or a loose water supply line. Gently tighten the bolts on the base if they’re loose, but don’t overtighten — that can crack the porcelain. If it still leaks, you’ll likely need a new wax ring — that’s best handled by a professional Woodland park plumber like Saback Plumbing and Heating.

• Weak Flush — A Quick Check:
  Open the tank and see if the water level is about an inch below the top of the overflow tube. If it’s too low, adjust the float to allow more water into the tank. You can also clean the small holes (rim jets) under the toilet bowl rim with a piece of wire or an old toothbrush to clear mineral buildup.

• Clogged Toilet — Best DIY Trick:
  Use a flange plunger, not a regular sink plunger. Make sure there’s enough water in the bowl to cover the plunger head, then push in and out firmly for 15–20 seconds. If that doesn’t clear it, try a toilet auger (a special plumbing snake) to gently break up the clog. Avoid using harsh chemical drain cleaners — they can damage pipes and toilets.

• Why Avoid Chemical Drain Cleaners:
  They can corrode your pipes, ruin your toilet’s inner parts, and create more plumbing problems. They also don’t always fully clear the clog — they just push it deeper. A safe plunger or auger is better, or call a Woodland Park plumbing pro for help.