How to fix a toilet that doesn't empty, not stopped up.?

Question

The flapper and chain were replaced a few weeks ago, and have adjusted the chain several times. Sometimes it takes up to 30 seconds or more before the water from the water pipe starts up, it flushes partially but takes up to 4 flushes or more now it won't empty completely with this many flushes. It has a small white flat
item in the left side of the tank which connects to the water line at bottom, does this need replacing, how hard is it to replace. Help!

Answer 1

Lift the top of the holding tank. When you pull the chain make sure it raises really high. It sounds like it is closing to fast. Try to hold the flush leveler up for a few more seconds londer than normal

Answer 2

You could try replacing the flush valve. That's the thingy that the water line connects too inside the tank. If these get sediment or corrosion in them, they can fill slowly or not at all. You can purchase one of these at the home stores for about $10 - $15. They have a few different types. The easiest would be to have your landlord do it, as another suggested. But if you must DIY, remember the instructions inside the box! Make sure you shut the water off at the valve under the toilet tank. Make sure you have a small pail, bucket or bowl that will fit under that water line that goes into the tank. It will spill water on the floor when you disconnect it. A towel or paper towels probably wouldn't hurt either. Most of these valves are made of plastic anymore, so use a little caution when tightening. You can crack the plastic easily if you over tighten. But you have to make sure that they are tight. The new piece should come with everything you need to complete the installation. Take your time and hopefully you've got another bathroom to use in the meantime. Good Luck.

Answer 3

x66red is right you could have an obstruction somewhere in the line. If it's not that then it's a problem with the actual flush time. If it seems to flush fine when you push down the lever and hold it till it makes the full flush then it's a flush time issue ie: flush valve or flapper problem. If holding down the lever doesn't improve the performance I have to insist there is a partial blockage somewhere.

Answer 4

I agree, You need to lift the lid off the holding tank and make sure the flap is in good condition, make sure the chain isn't broke. Also check the lever attached to the handle you flush with. You can get all the parts you need at a local hardware store. Temporally you can reach in and lift the flap with you hand to flush (its OK the water is as clean as the water that flows from you tap)

Good luck

Answer 5

Although you said it is not stopped up,it does seem like there is an obstruction in the "P" trap or somewhere further down the line.

Answer 6

Hey!!! i had the same problem and ya know what i did .......called the landlord and told him to fix it ...i doubt very much that is going to help you but good luck a broken toilet is not the very fun at all