Last Updated on January 25, 2023 by acechapman
In 1994, federal law required all new toilets to have low flow. This was in response to an environmental initiative. The flushing water needed for the toilet was approximately 1 1/2 gallons, which is less than half of what was required for older toilets. However, low-flow toilets can sometimes have some problems. In this article, we will discuss a detailed guide on how to fix a low-flow toilet.
How to fix a low-flow toilet?
A toilet flush can develop a low flow over time for many reasons. It is quite embarrassing to find out that the toilet flush does not drain completely in one go. You have to wait until the cistern refills again. There are many reasons for this: clogged rim holes; too long handle linkage; as well as the flapper valve may have warped. Low flow could also be caused by external factors such as low pressure in the water supply.
A clogged vent is one common reason. This will then cause a partial vacuum in the cistern, which constricts the discharge. This test should be performed. You can flush the cistern, then open the cover and check for the year of manufacture. We recommend replacing the toilet flushing system if it was manufactured between 1994 and 1997. Low-flow flushing toilets used to require at least two flushes.
You will need the following tools
- Plunger
- Toilet auger
- Gloves for hands
- Garden hose
- Sewer auger
Steps To Fix A Low-Flow Toilet
- Too much tension on the chain is the most common reason the flapper valve does not function properly. This will be our first problem. Check the pull on your chain by opening the tank’s top cover. Too much slack can cause the flapper valve to not lift fully. Thus, resulting in a partial flush. Keep the chain in a tight fit. However, leaving just an inch of space.
- Check the water level at the fill valve cutoff. It should be at least an inch below the overflow pipe mouth. Then, you can shorten the armature to adjust the ball flotation if it is lower.
- Insert the plunger into the toilet bowl. You should ensure it has enough water. We want to clear a clog with water, not air.
- If the plunger isn’t working, you can use the toilet auger. It will move as far as it can into the bowl. Clean the head. You can do this several times.
- Examine the opening on the roof if there is no obstruction. Sometimes, they can become blocked by leaves or debris that blocks airflow to the waste disposal line. Make sure to clear the opening.
- The garden hose can now be directed through the vent in order to clear out any clogs along the line.
- If that fails, you can use the sewer auger to clear it.
Common Problems and Solutions for Low-Flow Toilets
1. Rim jets clogs
There are a few holes under the toilet bowl rim that allow water to escape from the bowl when the flush is turned on. Low-flow toilets use less water per flush, which can be more efficient and save water.
However, they can also be more prone to clogging because the smaller amount of water may not be sufficient to clear all the waste from the bowl. One possible solution for a clogged toilet with rim jets is to use a toilet auger to try to clear the blockage. To use a toilet auger, follow these steps:
- Locate the auger’s crank handle and insert the auger cable into the toilet bowl.
- Feed the auger cable through the overflow pipe at the back of the toilet.
- Crank the auger handle clockwise to work the auger through the blockage.
- Continue cranking the handle until you feel resistance, which indicates that the auger has reached the blockage.
- Reverse the auger by turning the handle counterclockwise to loosen and remove the blockage.
- Flush the toilet to ensure that it is functioning properly.
2. Clogged waste pipes
The toilet waste pipe is the one that transports the contents from the toilet bowl into your house’s drainage system and into the main sewerage lines.
If the waste pipes of your low-flow toilet are clogged, it can prevent the toilet from flushing properly. Here are some possible solutions for a clogged waste pipe:
- Try using a plunger to loosen and remove the blockage. Place the plunger over the opening at the bottom of the toilet bowl and push down firmly to create suction.
- If the plunger does not work, you can try using a toilet auger to clear the blockage. Follow the steps I provided in my previous response for using a toilet auger.
- You may need to use a chemical drain cleaner to try to break up the obstruction. Be sure to follow the instructions on the product label and use caution when handling the cleaner.
- If none of these methods work, you may need to call a plumber for further assistance. They have specialized tools and equipment that can help clear the blockage and restore proper functioning to your toilet.
3. Clogged flush hole in the jet
The jet flush hole, also known as a siphon jet or a space for holding water, is where the water flows at an angle to discharge waste to the trap. It can become clogged with calcium deposits and other substances over time. As a result, the flushing power decreases.
A clogged flush hole in the jet of a low-flow toilet can prevent the toilet from flushing properly. Here are some possible solutions for clearing a clogged flush hole:
- First, try using a toilet auger to try to clear the blockage. Follow the steps I provided in a previous response for using a toilet auger.
- When the auger does not clear the blockage, you can try using a small mirror to inspect the flush hole and see if you can identify the obstruction. If you see something that you can remove by hand, such as a small object or a piece of tissue, use a pair of tweezers or pliers to carefully remove it.
- If you are unable to remove the obstruction with the auger or by hand, you may need to use a chemical drain cleaner to try to break up the blockage. Be sure to follow the instructions on the product label and use caution when handling the cleaner.
4. Plumbing Vent System Problems
The plumbing vent system is an important part of a toilet’s drainage system. It allows air to enter the pipes and helps to prevent a vacuum from forming when water flows through the pipes. If there is a problem with the plumbing vent system, it can cause issues with the flushing and draining of a low-flow toilet. Here are some possible solutions for plumbing vent system problems:
- Check the vent pipe for blockages. The vent pipe is typically located on the roof of the building, and it can become blocked by debris or an animal nest. If you suspect that the vent pipe is blocked, you can try to clear the obstruction with a plumbing snake or by calling a plumber for assistance.
- Check the seal between the toilet and the floor. If the seal is damaged or loose, it can allow sewer gases to escape, which can cause problems with the flushing and draining of the toilet. To fix this issue, you can try resealing the toilet or replacing the seal.
- Inspect for leaks in the plumbing vent system. If there is a leak in the vent system, it can cause problems with the flushing and draining of the toilet. To fix this issue, you will need to call a plumber to locate and repair the leak.
- Check the water level in the toilet tank. If the water level is too low, it can cause problems with the flushing and draining of the toilet. To fix this issue, you can adjust the water level by adjusting the float in the toilet tank.
5. The flapper valve is too loose
The flapper valve is a rubber or silicone seal that covers the opening at the bottom of the toilet tank. It is responsible for releasing water into the toilet bowl when the toilet is flushed. If the flapper valve is too loose, it can cause the toilet to run continuously or not flush properly. Here are some possible solutions for a loose flapper valve:
- Adjust the flapper valve chain. The chain that connects the flapper valve to the flush handle should be tightened until there is a slight amount of tension. If the chain is too long, it can cause the flapper valve to be too loose and not seal properly.
- Replace the flapper valve. If the flapper valve is damaged or worn out, it may need to be replaced. To do this, you will need to turn off the water supply to the toilet, flush the toilet to empty the tank, and then remove the old flapper valve. You can then install the new flapper valve according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Check the water level in the toilet tank. When the water level is too low, it can cause the flapper valve to not seal properly. To fix this issue, you can adjust the water level by adjusting the float in the toilet tank.
6. Too low water level
A low water level in a low-flow toilet can cause problems with flushing and can lead to clogs. Here are some possible solutions for a low water level in the toilet:
- Check the float in the toilet tank. The float is a ball or cylinder that controls the water level in the toilet tank. If the float is set too low, it can cause the water level to be too low. You can try adjusting the float to a higher position to see if it helps to increase the water level.
- Inspect the fill valve. The fill valve is responsible for filling the toilet tank with water after it has been emptied during a flush. If the fill valve is not functioning properly, it can cause the water level to be too low. You can try cleaning the fill valve or replacing it if it is damaged.
- Check the water supply line. If the water supply line to the toilet is restricted or clogged, it can cause the water level to be too low. You can try cleaning the water supply line or replacing it if it is damaged.
- Inspect for leaks. A leak in the toilet tank or bowl can cause the water level to be too low. To check for a leak, you can add a few drops of food coloring to the toilet tank and wait a few minutes. If the water in the bowl changes color, it indicates a leak. You can try tightening any loose bolts or replacing the flapper valve to fix the leak.
Maintaining Low-Flow Toilets Tips
It is frustrating and tiresome to have a weak flushing system.
Here are some tips to help maintain low-flow toilets:
Don’t flush non-biodegradable items.
Low-flow toilets may not be able to handle flushing items such as paper towels, feminine hygiene products, and baby wipes. These items can cause clogs and may require a plumber to remove them.
Avoid using chemical cleaners.
Some chemical cleaners can corrode the parts of the toilet and cause problems with flushing. Instead, try using a natural cleaner or a mixture of vinegar and baking soda to clean the toilet.
Use a toilet brush to clean the bowl regularly.
This will help to remove any build-up of grime and prevent the toilet from clogging.
Check the water level in the toilet tank regularly.
The water level should be set to the manufacturer’s recommended level to ensure proper flushing.
Replace the flapper valve every few years.
The flapper valve is a rubber or silicone seal that covers the opening at the bottom of the toilet tank. It is responsible for releasing water into the toilet bowl when the toilet is flushed. If the flapper valve becomes damaged or worn out, it may need to be replaced to ensure proper flushing.
Have the toilet get inspected by a plumber regularly.
A plumber can check for any issues with the toilet and make any necessary repairs to ensure that it is functioning properly.
By following these tips, you can help to maintain the efficiency and performance of your low-flow toilet.
Frequently Asked Questions for Low-Flow Toilets
Do low-flow toilets clog faster?
Low-flow toilets can be more prone to clogging because they use less water per flush than standard toilets. The smaller amount of water may not be sufficient to clear all the waste from the bowl, which can lead to clogs. However, this does not mean that low-flow toilets will necessarily clog more frequently than standard toilets. There are a number of factors that can contribute to toilet clogs, including the type of toilet paper being used, the amount of waste being flushed, and the condition of the plumbing system. To help prevent clogs in a low-flow toilet, it is important to avoid flushing non-biodegradable items and to use a toilet brush to clean the bowl regularly.
Can you adjust low-flow toilets?
The fill valve’s top is fitted with an adjustment screw. Yes, it is possible to adjust low-flow toilets to improve their performance.
Here are a few ways you can adjust a low-flow toilet:
- Water level in the toilet tank should be set to the manufacturer’s recommended level to ensure proper flushing. You can adjust the water level by adjusting the float in the toilet tank.
- The chain that connects the flapper valve to the flush handle should be tightened until there is a slight amount of tension. If the chain is too long, it can cause the flapper valve to be too loose and not seal properly.
How do you know if your toilet is low flow?
There are a few ways to determine if your toilet is a low-flow toilet:
- Look for a label on the toilet. Many low-flow toilets will have a label indicating that they are low-flow or water-efficient.
- Check the flush volume. Low-flow toilets are designed to use less water per flush than standard toilets. If your toilet uses less than 1.6 gallons per flush (gpf), it is likely a low-flow toilet.
- Check the age of the toilet. Low-flow toilets have been required in new construction and renovations in the United States since 1994, so if your toilet was installed or replaced after that year, it is likely a low-flow toilet.
- Measure the toilet tank size. Low-flow toilets typically have smaller toilet tanks than standard toilets. A low-flow toilet is one that uses less than 1.6 gallons of water.
Can low-flush toilets lead to sewer problems?
Low-flush toilets can potentially contribute to sewer problems if they are not used and maintained properly. Here are a few ways low-flush toilets can contribute to sewer problems:
- Flushing non-biodegradable items. Most low-flush toilets may not be able to handle flushing items such as paper towels, feminine hygiene products, and baby wipes. These items can cause clogs and may require a plumber to remove them.
- Not using enough water per flush. Low-flush toilets are designed to use less water per flush than standard toilets. However, if the water level in the toilet tank is too low or if the flapper valve is not sealing properly, it can cause the toilet to not flush properly. This can lead to waste build-up in the pipes and potentially cause a blockage.
- No regular toilet maintenance. Failing to clean the toilet bowl or ignoring small issues such as a loose flapper valve can lead to more serious problems over time. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help prevent sewer problems caused by low-flush toilets.
By using low-flush toilets responsibly and maintaining them properly, you can help prevent sewer problems. If you are experiencing sewer problems that you believe may be caused by a low-flush toilet, it is a good idea to call a plumber for assistance.
Wrap it up
Low-flush toilets may be an excellent idea for conservation. Low-flow toilets can also cause problems. The new tanks are equipped with compressed air. Thus, increasing the pressure and allowing for better cleaning.
This article will cover all aspects of how to fix a low-flow toilet. It also gives an overview of the layout of a tank and bowl. We also included safety tips and we hope that you will follow them to avoid any nasty accidents.
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