Most toilet faults come down to a worn part, and we will tell you which.
A toilet that keeps running
A toilet that keeps refilling, or trickles water into the pan when nobody has used it, is wasting water and often makes a noise. The usual causes are a worn fill valve, a float set too high, or a seal in the flush mechanism that no longer closes. These are ordinary repairs. We replace the worn part, adjust the water level and check that it shuts off cleanly.
A weak flush, or no flush
If the handle feels loose, or you press it and nothing much happens, the cause is often a broken link or a worn flush valve inside the cistern. If the flush is weak or the water rises in the pan, there may be a blockage further along. If you have a blockage and the water is rising, do not keep flushing. Turn off the water to the cistern and call us.
Leaks
Water on the floor around a toilet has a few possible sources: the connection between cistern and pan, the supply pipe and its valve, or the joint where the toilet meets the waste pipe. A leak at the base can soak flooring over time, so please do not leave it. If you are not sure where the water is coming from, dry everything and see where it appears first, then tell us.
Parts, or a new toilet?
Repairing a toilet usually means replacing internal parts, and that is usually all it needs. If the pan or cistern is cracked, or the toilet is very old and parts are hard to find, replacing the toilet may be the better route. We will say which we think it is. If you are refitting the whole bathroom, see kitchen and bathroom plumbing.
If it is overflowing
Turn off the small valve near the cistern, or your stop tap, and see emergency plumber if water is reaching floors or ceilings. Do not use the toilet again until it has been looked at. If you cannot find the valve, stop tap replacement explains where your stop tap is likely to be.
Getting it fixed
We do not list prices because toilets and faults vary. Tell us what it is doing, roughly how old it is if you know, and your postcode, and send a photo if you can. Call 01709 456402 or ring the mobile 07401 429080, or use the contact page. For other everyday jobs, see plumbing repairs. If the heating has failed, see boiler repairs or new boilers. We are a local Rotherham team.
FAQ
Why does my toilet keep refilling?
Usually a worn fill valve or flush seal. It is normally a repair rather than a replacement.
Is a running toilet urgent?
Not normally, but it wastes water and can get worse. Book it in. If water is overflowing, turn it off and call.
Can you fix a toilet that is leaking at the base?
Often, yes. We will find where the water is coming from first, because the cause may be the seal, the connection or the waste pipe.
For the boiler side of what we do, see boiler servicing.