Ever wonder why your toilet bowl is slow to fill? You’re not alone.
A slow-filling toilet is a very common problem, and there are ways to solve it. There are a couple of reasons why this could be happening.
Typically, this issue isn’t serious (or expensive) to fix. However, identifying the problem can help you figure out the best solution to get your toilet running normally again as soon as possible.
Below, we highlight some of the reasons your toilet may be slow to fill, and how to resolve the issue.
1. Problem With Water Supply Valve
The water valve regulates the water’s flow and temperature in pipes and plumbing fixtures. If it’s partially closed or functioning incorrectly, it may inhibit its ability to deliver the correct amount of water at the proper speed.
Another possible issue that can happen with the valve is a buildup of debris. This can restrict water flow, which can slow down the valve’s filling speed.
Solution
Make sure the valve is completely open. If it’s fully opened but still not filling the tank with the right amount of water, contact a plumber to check the valve for debris buildup or to provide a reliable solution.
2. Waterlogged Float Ball
The float ball, or toilet float, is a device that sits on top of the water in the tank and lets the water fill while preventing it from overflowing.
If the float ball is full of water, it will not allow the tank to fill to the desired amount, or the water may fill at a much slower rate than normal.
Solution
Lift the toilet tank lid and check the water level. If it’s only partially full or the float ball is not floating near the top of the tank, your float ball may be waterlogged.
Fortunately, replacing the float ball doesn’t require a professional. All you have to do is pull the old one off the float arm and put a new one in its place!
It’s also important to understand that a float ball is a relatively old piece of toilet technology. If this mechanism isn’t working out, consider replacing toilet parts in your toilet with more modern parts. (P.S. You can always contact a professional for help!)
3. Blocked Pipe
Another reason why your toilet could be filling slowly is potential blockage in the pipe. It’s worthy of noting that there are ways to prevent blocked pipes before it becomes an issue. These include:
- Be cautious of the items you flush. Bathroom products such as cotton balls, Q-Tips, feminine products, and wet wipes (yes, even the ones that say flushable!) should never be flushed. (Remember: Toilets are only designed to handle human waste and toilet paper!)
- Keep the lid closed to prevent foreign objects from falling into the toilet.
- Use less toilet paper. If you find yourself needing a lot of paper, try flushing multiple times as you put the paper in the toilet.
Solution
Even with these tips, blockage can still happen. It’s common, and can usually be solved without the help of a professional. Start by using a plunger to clear it out.
If that doesn’t work, there are other remedies that could do the trick, such as pouring a bowl of boiling water down the drain to dissolve anything blocking the pipes.
If the toilet is still blocked, it’s time to call a plumber to make sure the issue is resolved and prevent it from getting worse.
Toilet Bowl Slow to Fill? We Can Help!
If you’re having problems with your toilet tank, contact us today. Our skilled plumbing team stands ready to help you get it functioning properly again!
