Did you just try to flush your toilet, and nothing happened? Glance inside the tank, and you may see no water inside. Before you panic, relax knowing that repairing this problem is usually straightforward. If you can’t figure it out yourself, you can always set up toilet repair with a knowledgeable plumber. Follow these tips to diagnose and repair the problem of no water in the toilet tank.
Check the Water Supply
The first action is to make sure the water is turned on. If you or someone in your household recently completed a toilet repair, you may have turned off the water first. Did you not realize you had to turn it back on? To see, spin the water shut-off valve on the wall in back of the toilet. If the valve was closed, water should now start refilling the tank. If this does not work, turn on the water at your sink or an alternative plumbing fixture. If nothing spills out from the tap, you could have a larger water supply issue. Call your water company to learn more.
Reposition or Replace the Float Mechanism
Older toilet brands use a float ball to measure the water level as it goes up in the tank. When the ball hits a certain height, the float arm it’s attached to stops the water flow. However, insufficient water could enter the tank if the ball is positioned wrong or the arm is faulty. To adjust the float ball, start by removing the toilet tank top. Bend the float arm up a little to adjust where it sits in the tank. If this does not fix the problem, you might need to replace the whole float mechanism. You should be able to perform this yourself by following the directions that come with the replacement parts, or you can employ a plumber for help. Just realize that float balls are old toilet design. You may prefer improved dependability and efficiency if you upgrade the existing tank components or replace the toilet altogether.
Adjust the Fill Valve
Newer toilets operate with a float cup instead of a float ball, coupled with a fill valve and water level rod. There may very well be no water in the toilet tank because the valve has slipped out of place or become clogged. Here are some techniques to consider:
- Modify the fill valve: Look inside the toilet and locate the fill valve on top of a vertical tube device on the left side of the tank. Make sure it’s secure and evenly connected to the tube. Then, change the water level. Newer toilets have an adjustment knob you can turn manually, while older models may require you to loosen an adjustment screw with a flathead screwdriver. Flush the toilet and make it possible for the tank refill to check the water level. Modify it until the water comes to about one inch below the top of the overflow tube.
- Clean the fill valve: Mineral buildup and other gunk might be blocking the valve and keeping your toilet from filling. Shut off the water behind the toilet and take off the fill cap. Then, slowly turn the water back on, cupping your hand over the valve to block water from spraying all over. After several seconds, turn the water back off. Finally, wash the fill cap to remove hard water buildup. If the cap is damaged, swap it out.
- Clean the valve tube: The tube below the fill valve might also be plugged. Shut off the water and take away the valve hardware. Then, stick a slim bottle brush or wire down the tube. Turn the water back on slightly to flush away the junk. Replace the valve hardware and flush the toilet to test your adjustments.
Repair or Replace the Trip Assembly
If you’ve tried the steps above without success, the one remaining possibility is a damaged trip assembly. This component attaches the flush handle to the tank. If it’s damaged or positioned inadequately, the flush cycle may not complete, leaving the tank void. Detach the toilet tank lid and examine the trip assembly connected to the handle. If it’s out of place, reposition it. If the assembly is twisted, worn or wrecked, change it out. Whether you complete the job yourself or leave it to a plumber, this easy repair should get your toilet tank filled with water once again.
Schedule Toilet Repair Today
You can’t go long without a working toilet, so call [Company name] to schedule a toilet repair. We can figure out why your toilet isn’t filling and propose the correct fix. If your plumbing fixture is older and worn out, our team can install a high-efficiency toilet in your home. Rest assured that every plumbing repair and replacement we complete is backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee. To schedule a visit from one of our licensed crews, please contact your community Broad Ripple Service Experts office today.