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You definitely can over-tighten toilet tank bolts. Unlike some other materials, porcelain can’t bend or flex, so when you over-tighten a screw into it, it could break against the added pressure. Only tighten them as much as needed to keep them in place and firm; any more and you could risk breaking the porcelain.

While you don’t have to run out and immediately buy a new toilet at the first sign of a clog, if the toilet keeps clogging because it’s a low-flow or poorly designed model, a new toilet may be the way to go. If your toilet keeps clogging, you can try using less toilet paper, adjusting the fill valve, checking the toilet vent pipe on the roof, and using a toilet auger to make sure nothing is stuck in the pipe or trap.

You can tell if your toilet fill valve is full by removing the lid and taking a look. When you flush the toilet, the float is at the bottom of the tank, the water empties, and the fill valve opens. The float rises to the top as the tank fills again with water. When the float rises to the right level, the fill valve closes; if the valve is too high, your toilet may only partially flush, requiring you to adjust the float. 

Many homeowners stress about cleaning before an emergency plumber arrives, but you’re far better off doing the following while you wait for your plumber to get to your home:

• Shut the water off at your water main if you have a leak or a burst pipe 

• Avoid using any water fixtures in your home, including appliances

• Clear a path to the problem area so that it’s easily accessible 

• Consider shutting your breaker if you’re concerned that the leak may affect your electrical system