Toilet Replacement in Lake Forest, CA

The average person uses the toilet multiple times a day but rarely thinks about its mechanics unless there's a problem. To better appreciate and maintain this essential fixture, it's useful to know when it’s time for a toilet repair or replacement service. At Rooter Hero, we offer a wide range of professional services for local property owners including new toilet installation, toilet repair, and toilet replacement in Lake Forest, California, and surrounding areas.

Introduction to Toilet Mechanics: How a Toilet Functions

At the most basic level, a toilet includes two main components: the bowl and the tank. When you push the flush lever, water from the tank rushes into the bowl, clearing away the waste and sending it down the drain. Inside the tank, you'll find a flapper, which covers the opening between the tank and the bowl. When you flush, the flapper rises, allowing water to enter the bowl. Once the tank is empty, the flapper seals off the opening again. Then, the fill valve refills the tank with water for the next use.

Common Issues & Solutions

While toilet issues may be frustrating to deal with, knowing the most common problems can help property owners stay prepared in an emergency.

• Clogs: An easy clogged toilet fix can often be accomplished with a good old-fashioned plunger. Make sure to get a tight seal and use an up-and-down motion to create suction. If this doesn’t work, then it may be time to call a friendly plumber.
• Running Water: If your toilet seems to be in a perpetual state of flush, it's probably a problem with the flapper or the fill valve. The flapper may not be sealing properly. Check for any debris or wear and replace if needed. If the water level in the tank is too high, the overflow tube will continually drain water. Adjust the water level by tweaking the float that's attached to the fill valve.
• Leaks: Found a pool of water around the base? Tighten the bolts attaching the toilet to the floor. If the problem persists, you might need to replace the wax ring seal between the toilet and the floor. Another source of leaks can be from the tank itself. If you find moisture on the outside of the tank, inspect it for cracks. If you find one, you’ll need to replace your toilet to avoid further water damage.

Essential Tools for Basic Toilet Repair

Every property owner should have a few essential tools in their plumbing toolkit:

• Plunger: A must-have for any home. They come in various designs, but a flanged plunger is specifically designed for toilets.
• Adjustable Wrench: Useful for tightening bolts and nuts.
• Toilet Auger: A long, coiled tool to reach deep into the drain and dislodge tough clogs.
• Gloves: To keep your hands clean. Opt for durable, waterproof ones.
• Replacement Parts: Flappers, fill valves, and wax rings are handy to have on standby. They're relatively cheap and can save a trip to the store mid-repair.