How to Repair a Toilet
There are various problems that one may face with a toilet. There may be some simple adjustments, correction of the flush valve, adjustment of the refill valve or leakage. One of the most common problems is the leakage problem.
Usually all flush tanks in the toilet have the same functioning. Refill and flush valve are the two valves that are used in tanks. Ballcock is another type of refill valve.
If the flush valve does not seat properly, the leakage of the water starts into the bowl from the tank. This water that has been leaked is again filled by the refill valve that allows a constant flow of washed-out water. In case, there is any leakage in the refill valve, the tank gets overfilled, and the extra water is released from the overflow pipe into the bowl.
Sometimes, even though the refill valve is functioning without any hassles, water-logging leads to overflowing. In this case, you can simply check for the flush valve that is leaking. The water supply to the toilet is blocked by closing the valve below the tank on the left side. Mark the level of water and check after a few minutes if it is leaking. If it is not leaking, then you know that it is actually the refill valve which is leaking.
There are some simple adjustments that can help to keep your toilet working properly.
If the toilet has a refill or ballcock valve, the adjustment of water is done by using the float arm. The level of the water should be such that it is enough for a complete flush, but it should not exceed the level of the overflow pipe. Another important point is that the tank should have a molded or colored water level mark. The level should never be so low that it becomes difficult to refill the bowl with trap sealing water.
You can also consider adjusting the float arm sideways, in case the float rubs onto other parts. If the float is not functioning correctly, unscrew and shake it to see if the water is getting logged inside it. If there is a waterlogged float, its replacement can be a better option.
The replacement of the float arm is also possible, if required.
In tanks that use new plastic refill valves, the water level of the tank can be adjusted in different ways. If the tank has a hand nut, the nut can be turned clockwise to increase, or the other way round to lower the level of water. Or a sliding pinch clamp can also be present in a tank on the adjustment rod.
If there is any problem in the functioning of a flush valve, its flush ball can be replaced. However, it is better to try to fix it with minor adjustments first. The guide arm should be checked if it is centered correctly on the seat. The flush ball should be dropped by the guide arm into the seat directly.