Common Toilet Problems and How to Fix Them with Spare Parts

Toilets are an essential part of any home, and like any other household fixture, they’re prone to issues over time. Fortunately, most common toilet problems are easy to fix with the right spare parts and a bit of know-how. In this guide, we'll walk you through some of the most common toilet issues and how you can resolve them using spare parts.

Understanding Toilet Parts: A Quick Overview

Before diving into specific issues, it’s helpful to understand the basic components of a toilet. Toilets consist of the cistern, flush mechanism, and pan, with several internal parts responsible for water flow and flushing. Knowing how these parts work can help you identify problems more quickly.

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1. Toilet Not Flushing Properly? Here's What You Need to Check

Common Causes:

• Clogged Drain

• Faulty Flush Valve

• Water Level Too Low

How to Fix It:

• Check for Blockages: If your toilet isn’t flushing properly, there may be a blockage in the drain. A plunger is usually the first tool to try. If the blockage persists, a toilet auger can help reach deeper clogs.

• Inspect the Flush Valve: If the flush valve isn’t sealing correctly, water may not be flowing into the pan. Replacing the flush valve with a new one should solve the issue.

• Adjust the Water Level: The water level in the cistern may be too low to generate a full flush. Adjust the float valve to set the water level properly.

Spare Parts Needed:

• Toilet Plunger or Toilet Auger

• Flush Valve Replacement Kit

• Float Valve

2. Running Toilet: Why It’s Happening and How to Fix It

A running toilet wastes water and can significantly increase your water bill. Here’s why it happens and how to fix it.

Common Causes:

• Worn-out Flapper

• Faulty Fill Valve

• Corroded Tank Parts

How to Fix It:

• Replace the Flapper: If the rubber flapper is old, cracked, or worn, it may not seal properly, causing the toilet to keep running. A new flapper is easy to install and can resolve the issue in minutes.

• Fix the Fill Valve: If the fill valve is malfunctioning, it may not stop the water from filling the cistern. Replacing the valve should stop the continuous flow of water.

• Inspect Tank Components: Over time, parts inside the cistern can corrode or wear out. A full tank replacement kit can help renew the entire flush mechanism.

Spare Parts Needed:

• Flapper Seal

• Fill Valve Replacement

• Tank Repair Kit

3. Weak Toilet Flush? Here’s What Could Be Wrong

A weak flush can be frustrating and may require some simple repairs to get your toilet back to full power.

Common Causes:

• Low Water Pressure

• Clogged Rim Jets

• Faulty Flush Valve

How to Fix It:

• Check the Water Pressure: If your water supply pressure is low, the flush won’t have enough force. Check for leaks or blockages in the water line leading to the toilet.

• Clean the Rim Jets: Over time, the rim jets in the toilet bowl can become clogged with mineral deposits, affecting the strength of the flush. Cleaning these jets with a wire or vinegar can help.

• Replace the Flush Valve: If the valve isn’t functioning properly, it won’t release enough water into the bowl during a flush. Installing a new flush valve will restore flushing power.

Spare Parts Needed:

• Rim Jet Cleaner (or Wire)

• Flush Valve

4. Toilet Leaks? Here’s How to Fix It

Leaking toilets can waste water and cause damage to your bathroom. Identifying and fixing the leak early will save you money on water bills and repairs.

Common Causes:

• Damaged Tank-to-Bowl Gasket

• Worn-out Wax Seal

• Cracked Toilet Bowl or Tank

How to Fix It:

• Replace the Tank-to-Bowl Gasket: If water is leaking from where the tank connects to the toilet bowl, the gasket may be damaged. Replacing this rubber seal will fix the issue.

• Fix the Wax Seal: If you notice water leaking from the base of the toilet, the wax seal between the toilet and the floor may need replacing. It’s a simple fix but may require removing the toilet from the floor.

• Check for Cracks: If your toilet has a visible crack, you’ll need to replace the entire toilet. Cracks can worsen over time and lead to more significant leaks.

Spare Parts Needed:

• Tank-to-Bowl Gasket

• Wax Seal Kit

• Toilet Replacement (if cracked)

For compliance with Australian standards and to ensure quality, check the Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB) .

5. Bad Odour from the Toilet? How to Get Rid of It

Unpleasant smells are another common toilet problem. It’s usually caused by stagnant water, bacteria, or a clogged vent.

Common Causes:

• Bacteria Buildup

• Clogged Toilet Vent

• Dry Trap

How to Fix It:

• Clean and Disinfect: Regularly clean the toilet bowl and cistern with disinfectants to prevent bacteria buildup, which can lead to odour.

• Check the Vent: The vent pipe allows air to flow into the toilet’s waste system. If this becomes clogged, it can cause unpleasant smells. Ensure the vent pipe is free of obstructions.

• Maintain the Trap: If the water trap at the base of the toilet is dry, it can allow sewer gases to rise. Regularly flush the toilet to ensure water stays in the trap.

Spare Parts Needed:

• Toilet Brush & Cleaner

• Vent Pipe Cleaner or Snake

• Disinfecting Tablets

Final Thoughts: Keep Your Toilet in Tip-top Shape

Toilets may seem simple, but they’re made up of several parts that all need to function properly to avoid issues. By keeping an eye on common problems and using the right spare parts, you can maintain a healthy, functional toilet without the need for costly repairs.

Whether it’s replacing a worn-out flush valve, fixing a leak, or unclogging a drain, tackling these issues early can save you time, money, and frustration in the long run. If you’re ever in doubt, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional plumber or bathroom expert for further assistance.

Need Spare Parts? Kalessi Bathroom and Tiles Has You Covered

At Kalessi Bathroom and Tiles, we stock a wide range of toilet spare parts, from flush valves to tank gaskets, to help you fix any toilet problem quickly and easily. Visit us online or at our store for high-quality parts at affordable prices.