Facts about toilets

If you’re a homeowner, chances are you rely on your toilet every single day without giving it much thought—until something goes wrong. But just like your car or HVAC system, your toilet needs occasional maintenance to stay in top shape.

Toilets may look simple on the outside, but they’re a clever combination of parts working together. Here’s a breakdown of the main components:

• Tank – The back part that holds water used for flushing.
• Bowl – Where the waste goes.
• Flush Valve – Releases water from the tank into the bowl.
• Flapper – A rubber seal that lifts when you flush and closes to refill the tank.
• Fill Valve – Refills the tank with water after every flush.
• Float – A buoyant device that tells the fill valve when to stop.
• Wax Ring – Located under the toilet base, it seals the connection between the toilet and the sewer pipe.

To avoid surprise leaks, clogs, or high water bills, you should:

• ✅ Inspect the tank components every 6–12 months. Look for wear on the flapper, rust, or corrosion.
• ✅ Replace the flapper and fill valve every 3–5 years. These parts can wear out and cause your toilet to run constantly.
• ✅ Check for leaks under the toilet once a year. A soft floor or smell near the base can mean a failing wax ring.
• ✅ Flush it regularly (even unused toilets). Toilets in guest bathrooms or seasonal homes should still be flushed once a month to prevent seal drying and odor buildup.

Phantom flushing (toilet refills randomly): Usually a bad flapper.

Weak flush: Might be clogged rim jets or a problem with the fill level.

Constant running water: Can waste hundreds of gallons—check the flapper or fill valve.

Rocking toilet: Loose bolts or a failing wax ring.

If you’re noticing leaks, your toilet is over 10–15 years old, or you’re dealing with frequent clogs, it may be time to call a plumber. Sometimes replacement is more cost-effective than repair.