Clogged or Running Toilet
Most toilet problems are a clog or a part inside the tank that isn't sealing. Both can often be fixed in a few minutes. Only toilet paper should go down the toilet.
Water rising toward the rim? Don't flush again. Turn off the valve on the wall behind the toilet, near the floor, by turning it clockwise. If water is on the floor or leaking through a ceiling, call us at (760) 349-1101.
Clearing a clog
1. Use the right plunger
Use a flange plunger, the kind with an extra rubber sleeve on the bottom that fits into the drain. A flat sink plunger won't seal on a toilet.
2. Seal and plunge
Make sure there's enough water in the bowl to cover the plunger cup. Press down gently to push out the air, then push and pull firmly 15 to 20 times while keeping the seal. Lift away and see if the water drains.
3. Still clogged
Repeat a few times. Don't use chemical drain cleaners. They rarely clear a toilet clog and can damage pipes and burn the plumber. If plunging doesn't work, submit a maintenance request.
Fixing a running toilet
1. Jiggle the handle
A toilet that keeps running is often a flapper that didn't close. Jiggle the handle, or lift the tank lid and press the flapper down so it seals.
2. Check the chain
The chain from the handle to the flapper should have a little slack. Too short and the flapper can't close; too long and it can get caught under the flapper.
3. Still running
If the toilet still runs, hisses or refills on its own, a part inside the tank needs replacing. Turn off the valve behind the toilet if it won't stop and submit a maintenance request. A running toilet can waste hundreds of gallons a day.
Frequently asked questions
What should I do if my toilet is about to overflow?
Stop flushing and turn off the water valve on the wall behind the toilet by turning it clockwise. You can also lift the tank lid and push the flapper down to stop more water from entering the bowl.
What can I flush?
Only toilet paper. Wipes, including ones labeled flushable, paper towels, feminine products, cotton swabs and dental floss can all cause clogs. Your lease allows only toilet paper to be flushed.
Who pays to unclog a toilet?
Usually the resident. Under the lease, clogs caused by wipes, paper towels or other items are charged to the resident. If the plumber finds a defective part or tree roots in the sewer line, the owner pays. See who handles what.
Why does my toilet keep running?
Usually the flapper isn't sealing, or the chain is caught or too short. Jiggle the handle and check the chain. If it still runs, a part inside the tank needs to be replaced, so submit a request.
Water is leaking around the base of the toilet. What should I do?
Turn off the valve behind the toilet, wipe up the water and submit a request right away. A leak at the base usually means the seal under the toilet has failed, and it can damage the floor if it isn't fixed.
Several drains are backing up at once. Is that a toilet problem?
Probably not. When a toilet, tub and sinks back up together, the main sewer line is likely blocked. Stop using water in the home and call us at (760) 349-1101.
Still not working?
Submit a maintenance request in the tenant portal and include photos if you can. Questions? Call (760) 349-1101 or email info@gfhousing.com, Monday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. See who handles what for repair responsibilities.