Do-it-yourself Repairs

Tapping the plumber within

Despite its fairly simple technology, your toilet can have numerous things go wrong with it. Some of these problems are straightforward and you can fix them yourself. Others are more complex and you will need to hire a good plumber. No list of repair tips could be definitive, but here are a few basics to keep in mind.

Clogs

So you had that extra helping or three of pound cake with dessert tonight, and several hours later when you’re on the john expunging it from your system, you grab an overly generous handful of toilet paper for a good wipe, and next thing you know you’ve got a clogged toilet. Naturally, your first weapon of choice to deal with the problem is the plunger. But here’s a tip to keep in mind: contrary to what most people think, large, deep thrusts with this device are actually less effective and could potentially make the problem worse. Instead, try shorter, quicker thrusts. And be patient: it may take several plunges to nurse the blockage out completely.

For really bad clogs, you’ll have to use an auger. This is a large metal coil with a long Z-shaped handle that you insert into the drain and turn. Just be careful when you’re inserting it that you don’t scratch the porcelain.

Leaks

If your tank is leaking, it could be for a number of reasons. Sadly, if the reason is because there’s a crack in the tank, there’s not much you can do; you’ll need to buy a new tank. (Don’t even think of grabbing the duct tape.) However, if there isn’t a crack in your tank, the water is most likely leaking because of the nuts that fasten the tank to the bowl are loose. If tightening them doesn’t work, you may need to replace the washers.

If the bowl is leaking, you’re going to need to call a plumber to reset the wax gasket, which has probably failed.

Loose handle or chain

If your tank handle is loose, tighten it up with an adjustable wrench by turning the lock-nut on the inside of the tank counterclockwise.

A loose or too-short life chain is going to allow water to seep through the flapper valve, causing the tank to make that annoying sound of constantly filling. If you’ve got too much chain, use some pliers to open the links and reposition the chain. If your toilet tank assembly has a life wire, you can loosen the screw on the guide arm and move it up or down to adjust the length.