Frequently Asked Questions
Normally, when the toilet does not stop running, the issue is inside the fill tank and is more than likely the flapper valve. When this valve does not close properly, water continuously leaks into the toilet bowl. This may be hard to detect, but you will see an increase in water usage on your water meter and bills. Repairing a leaking flapper valve can be done by yourself, but it’s certainly something the team at Hey Dude can handle for you as well. If the issue resides with the valve assembly or there is debris inside the fill valve, do not DIY this. Call the plumbing team at Hey Dude Plumbing for help.
If possible, identify where the toilet is leaking from. The water supply line is the most common source of toilet leaks. You will want to also check the water supply valve and the point where the water supply line enters the toilet tank. Toilet leaks can occur where the toilet meets the tank and at any point where the integrity of the tank or bowl is weakened.
Leaks also occur around the base of the toilet, especially if the mounting bolts are no longer holding the toilet properly in place. Depending on the location and severity of your leak, Hey Dude Plumbing will let you know if it’s easily repairable or if it’s time to replace the toilet.
The fastest and easiest way to get your toilet working properly again is to try and unclog the toilet yourself. Here are some basic solutions we recommend trying before giving the Hey Dude team a call.
Plunging
This is the easiest and go-to method for most people. Try pumping the plunger repeatedly until the water drains.
Plumbing Snake or Plumbing Auger
Another useful tool to quickly unclog a toilet is a drain snake. Try lowering the head into the toilet and turning the handle clockwise to wind the snake down the drain. If you feel an obstruction, lightly shake the handle to break up the clog and pull the drain snake head back up.
Vinegar and Baking Soda
Pour one cup of baking soda and one cup of vinegar into your toilet bowl. Wait 20-30 minutes, and then flush to see if the clog has passed through.
Soap and Hot Water
Squirt about half a cup of dish soap or shampoo into your toilet bowl. Wait 20-30 minutes, and then pour in hot (not boiling) water and wait another few minutes. If the water begins to drain, you’ll know the clog has passed through. Alternatively, you can also just use hot water.
If you have tried one or more of these, it is time to call the pros at Hey Dude Plumbing. The clog is more than likely farther in the drain line or sewer line, which requires a professional inspection.
