Question 1

What are some of the common signs that my toilet tank is leaking?

Accepted Answer

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If you notice water coming out of the bottom of your tank or the flush handle, you obviously have a leaking tank. Water on the side of the tank can indicate cracks. Other signs include the toilet running and flushing without anyone touching the handle, needing to jiggle the handle to make the water stop after flushing, or needing to hold the handle down to empty the water tank.

Question 2

Can you replace a standard toilet with an elongated toilet?

Accepted Answer

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Replacing a standard toilet with an elongated one is straightforward. The two types can be installed using the same existing drainpipe and plumbing. If you have a small bathroom, make sure that an elongated toilet doesn’t violate local building codes for clearance, which is the space between fixtures and walls.

Question 3

How can you save money when hiring an emergency plumber?

Accepted Answer

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Hiring an emergency plumber is expensive because of the urgency and inconvenience, but there are a few things you can do to help keep costs down:

Minimize water damage by shutting off your water main
Clean up pooling water immediately to reduce damage and mold growth
Avoid using fixtures if you have a clog or septic system backup
Verify that your plumber is licensed before hiring
Call a few plumbers for estimates if you can afford a short delay in getting service

Question 4

What causes the toilet handle to get stuck?

Accepted Answer

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Toilet handles can get stuck for a couple of reasons, but it’s commonly an issue with the chain. Remove the lid and check the chain’s connection, running from the flapper to the handle arm. Sometimes the chain gets snagged on or against another part of the tank.

The chain might not have the right tension. For example, a chain that’s too short can make the handle feel stuck. Check that there’s some slack in the chain. Old, worn-out flappers can get stuck, too. In this case, you’ll need to see which size toilet flapper you need.

Question 5

Why do some old houses have a toilet in the basement?

Accepted Answer

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Some older homes have toilets in the basement to combat sewage backups. This type of toilet, also known as a Pittsburgh potty, acted as a safety valve over the incoming sewer line. If a line backed up, it would back up into the toilet because it was the lowest fixture in the home, keeping it out of sight and away from the finished areas of the house.

Basement toilets were also used by workers with messy jobs, like those who worked in coal mines or steel mills. This way, they could clean up and avoid tracking dirt through their home.