Q: Do all basement toilets need a pump?

• <div><p>Basement toilets don&rsquo;t always need a pump. However, it is the most common setup because plumbing systems use gravity to move waste away from the home. Basement toilets often sit below the home&rsquo;s main sewage system, and <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/sewage-ejector-pump-installation.htm">installing a sewage ejector pump</a> pushes the wastewater and sewage up to the main sewer line. Alternatively, you can use an upflush or macerator toilet that breaks down the waste and pushes it straight to the main sewer line rather than via a sewer line from the bathroom.</p></div>

Q: Do toilet tank bolts need sealant?

• <div><p>Sealant doesn&rsquo;t need to be applied to the bolts, but it can be a good way to stop an active leak in the moment. However, don&rsquo;t rely on it as a cure-all; instead, make sure to fix the problem at the source by changing or tightening the bolts. </p><p>If you do use sealant, make sure to spread it thickly and evenly across the bolts and the tank's porcelain. </p></div>

Question 1

Do all basement toilets need a pump?

Accepted Answer

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Basement toilets don’t always need a pump. However, it is the most common setup because plumbing systems use gravity to move waste away from the home. Basement toilets often sit below the home’s main sewage system, and installing a sewage ejector pump pushes the wastewater and sewage up to the main sewer line. Alternatively, you can use an upflush or macerator toilet that breaks down the waste and pushes it straight to the main sewer line rather than via a sewer line from the bathroom.

Question 2

Why is my toilet still leaking after replacing the toilet flapper?

Accepted Answer

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If your toilet is still leaking after replacing the toilet flapper, then you may not have installed the toilet flapper correctly. Double-check that you have placed the flapper over the overflow tube correctly, and check the flapper chain is at the right length. If your toilet is still leaking, then you may have another problem on hand. For example, you may need to replace the toilet wax ring or replace the toilet fill valve if your toilet is wobbly and leaking from around the base.

Question 3

Do toilet tank bolts need sealant?

Accepted Answer

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Sealant doesn’t need to be applied to the bolts, but it can be a good way to stop an active leak in the moment. However, don’t rely on it as a cure-all; instead, make sure to fix the problem at the source by changing or tightening the bolts.

If you do use sealant, make sure to spread it thickly and evenly across the bolts and the tank's porcelain.

Question 4

Why does it take multiple flushes to flush a toilet?

Accepted Answer

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There are a few reasons why this could be the case. More than likely, your flapper is worn out and needs to be replaced. When it’s worn out, it lowers the water pressure during each flush leading to inefficient flushing. Luckily, replacing a toilet flapper is a simple repair that should only take about 30 minutes.

Question 5

Can a toilet, sink, and shower share the same vent?

Accepted Answer

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Yes, a toilet, sink, and shower can share the same vent. This is a common plumbing practice that can simplify installation and save space. When sharing a vent, it's important that the toilet is located downstream from all other fixtures. You will also need to ensure the vent pipe is large enough to handle the demands of all connected fixtures without compromising its effectiveness. Because requirements can vary, you should always check your local building and plumbing codes. Consulting a qualified plumber is recommended to ensure the vent is properly sized, installed, and adheres to all local regulations.