Working toilets are essential for any home or business. If your pressure-flush toilet is sluggish after flushing, it is possible to troubleshoot the issue without calling a plumber.
Pressure-assisted toilets use pressure instead of gravity to flush. Instead of standing water in an outside tank, pressure flush toilets store water in an inner tank. Here are tips to troubleshoot water pressure issues in pressure-flush toilets.
Check the Water Pressure
Low or high water pressure is a common issue with pressure-flush toilets. High water pressure often leads to pipe damage and leaks, whereas low pressure causes slow flushing.
The drop or rise in pressure could be a municipal problem, but this should be temporary. Municipalities often set water pressure based on needs at the time, such a for fire hydrants or construction, which could set the PSI ( Per Square Inch) at 100 or more.
Water pressure reducing valves are commonly located near the water supply lines Homes may need one, if the municipal pressure is low, but a commercial building needs them because of the high volume of water used daily.
The water pressure regulator should read around 45 PSI for a residence. . Don't raise the water pressure to avoid pipe damage. If you don't have a water pressure regulator, consider installing one.
Inspect the Pressure Chamber
A rational toilet uses a flapper to draw water. A pressure-assisted toilet draws water with a pressurized plastic chamber.
Sometimes, they can get damaged, which causes weak flushing. Shut off the water supply to the toilet, which is commonly located behind or beside the unit.
Remove the lid, and inspect the pressure chamber for leaks and cracks. If you find a crack, try to patch it with PVC joint cement.
Flush the toilet to check the connection between the porcelain and bottom of the pressure chamber. Examine the area for debris and broken rubber rings, which will cause low water pressure.
Adjust the Actuator and Rod
While the lid is off, adjust the center screw of the actuator, the part attached to the rear of the toilet handle Note the height of the flush rod from the actuator.
The space between the rod and actuator should be the thickness of a penny. Rotate the screw left or right with a screwdriver or wrench until it is the correct height.
Clean the Actuator and Inlet Screen
If the rubber ring isn't damaged, and the actuator height is fine, turn off the water. Flush the toilet while pressing down on the actuator. As the unit flushes, gradually raise the actuator to clean debris.
Inlet screens often get dirty, causing reduced water pressure. With the water still off, lift the water supply attached to plastic tube. Insert a bent paper clip under the screen to push it out, and clean it with an old toothbrush. Companies like Walt's Plumbing can help.
Share17 May 2017
When you get a clogged drain or a toilet that just won't flush, do you reach for the phone and call for a plumber? When you have these seemingly simple plumbing problems around your house, you have to make a decision quickly. Do you pay for someone to come out and make the repairs, or do you attempt the repair on your own? This blog is all about DIY plumbing repairs. You will learn the basics and find tips for when to cut your losses and call in for professional assistance so you don't make a small fix one that needs serious repairs.
