This animation shows the different components of, and the path of water through, a common household toilet. Use your mouse to interact and operate the toilet.
Toilet Repair skills are not necessarily exciting, but they sure come in handy when your toilet malfunctions. If your toilet acts up and you don’t know how to fix it you could be in real trouble. You should identify these standard parts before attempting a toilet repair.
- DiaphragmActuator – this is the toilet handle
- AutoLeveling Assembly – or the float ballcauses the water control diaphragm to seal when the water in the tank reaches aspecific level
- Watercontrol Device – also called a fill valve, monitors the amount of water feedinginto the tank
- Tankoverflowassembly – exists to siphon off excess water in the tank if the fill valvefails.
- Watercontrol diaphragm – closes over the outlet when a measured amount of water hasbeen released to the bowl to prevent the toilet from continuously filling.
- Washdown orifices – toilet jets that allow water to flow into the bowl from thetank. Jets help to create the swirlingaction necessary to clean the bowl with each flush.
- Emergencyshut-off with inlet supply connector – allows quick access to shut the wateroff from the wall to your toilet
Fixturegasket – toilet wax ring used to seal the toilet to the floor flange to preventleakage and instability.
- Floorflange – connects the toilet to the sewer pipe leading to the outside of thehome
Here is some handy information for any homeowner to know:
Your toilet has two assemblies that operate together to control the flow of water in the toilet. Over time sediment from the water can cause these assemblies to mal-function. Occasional cleaning around the outlet to remove debris can prevent premature failure of these parts. First, before attempting a toilet repair or maintenance you should know how to shut off the water. The shut off is usually located behind the toilet (emergency shut off valve) towards the floor. Next, flush the toilet to remove the water from the tank. Lift the rubber gasket (water control diaphragm) that covers the hole exiting the tank to the bowl. Using a sponge or cloth wipe around the outlet to remove debris. Once clean, reseat the rubber gasket to seal over the outlet. Turn water back on to the toilet to allow the tank to fill. Once water shuts off, place the lid back on the tank.
Following this process works for simple toilet repairs. Unfortunately, not all toilet repairs are simple. There are more advanced features to every toilet and improper installation of any of these parts could lead to flooding or water damage. Stoppages often are only a symptom to a larger problem and should be serviced by a professional.
In these instances, if you don’t feel confident about attempting the repair yourself, call your local Mr. Rooter franchise. Toilet repairs are not always an easy task but the professionals at Mr. Rooter Plumbing can make the necessary repairs giving you confidence that your water system is operating properly . Call us today to request an appointment!
