Toilet problems are not the end of the world, but it can feel like the water starts rising instead of flushing out of nowhere. How about when it refuses to flush altogether? Have you ever had to deal with a clogged toilet?

It’s true that not every toilet problem warrants a call to your local plumber. However, toilet problems tend to get worse very quickly when left alone for too long. Before you know it, simple issues that you could have handled on your own become so much worse.

That is why it’s essential that you can recognize the most common problems your toilet might have and whether or not it’s something you can fix. Just by knowing this information, you can save yourself a whole lot of time and trouble. 

Likewise, you should know when to call a plumber. The sooner you can get the professional help you need, the sooner you can enjoy a stress-free time on the toilet. It can be hard to relieve yourself when you’re unsure if the toilet’s going to rebel or cooperate.

Here are the most common things that could be wrong with your toilet and how to fix them.

Bubbling Water

It can be pretty scary to see the water in your toilet bubbling as if it’s a witch’s brew. It’s not uncommon to experience this problem. Air bubbles can rise from the toilet after you flush because of two things: it’s clogged, or there’s a faulty vent. 

A loud gurgling sound usually accompanies this. This is a sign that there is negative air pressure building in the drain pipe. This can create an airlock and cause reverse suction. Eventually, it might bring waste up into your bowl. 

If it’s a blockage that’s causing this, all you have to do is get your trusty plunger and get to work. Make sure to use a large plunger to minimize splashing and making too much of a mess. If the vent is the problem, using a plumbing snake can help to unblock it. When you’ve done everything you can, and it still doesn’t work, call your plumber. 

Sluggish Flush

You’ve probably experienced a toilet failing to flush on your once or twice. The lesser but equally distressing version of that is a sluggish flush. You flush the toilet, waiting to hear the tell-tale sign that everything went down smoothly. But instead, you hear nothing, just a slow, agonizing, and stubborn sound of the toilet barely flushing.

A few things can cause this, but most commonly because of the following:

• low water levels in your tank, 
• a clog in the toilet or a pipe 
• a buildup of calcium and other hard minerals

To fix the problem, you will need to use the plunger once again. You can try your best to unclog it, but like always, when you’ve done all you can, and there’s no change, call a plumber.

Cracked Toilet Bowl

Most of the problems above have to do with the flush, but you might need a professional if you find the problem to be with the toilet itself. You can plunge away at clogs and fix a few issues on your own. 

However, call a plumber when you notice water leaking—seemingly out of nowhere—around your toilet. A cracked bowl isn’t something you’re equipped to fix. Consult with a plumber whether your toilet can be fixed or needs to be replaced entirely.

Summary

It’s essential to know the most common issues that your toilet might have. This will help you be more aware of when you should fix it on your own and when to give the local plumber a call. The last thing you want to do is misjudge the issue and end up with an even bigger problem on your hands. Most of the things that can go wrong with your toilet can be easily fixed if you can detect the problem immediately.

If you’re looking for a reliable plumber near you, we’re here to help. Candu Plumbing & Rooter is a professional service company available anywhere in California. We offer a full range of plumbing services. Our goal is to aid our clients in getting back to normal as soon as possible and prevent any more future plumbing issues. Whatever you need, we’re ready to work! Contact us today to book an appointment.