Toilet plumbing issues are some of the most common—and frustrating—problems homeowners encounter. In Arvada, these problems can be exacerbated by the region’s hard water, climate, and older homes. Let’s take a look at the top five toilet plumbing issues faced by Arvada homeowners and how you can fix them.
1. Clogged Toilets
What Causes It?
Clogs are typically caused by excessive toilet paper, non-flushable items (such as wipes or paper towels), or mineral buildup from hard water in Arvada.
How to Fix It?
Plunger: A good plunge can often dislodge a clog. For deeper blockages, use a toilet auger to reach farther into the pipes.


Baking Soda & Vinegar: If the clog is minor, mix 1 cup of baking soda and 2 cups of vinegar, let it sit for 15–20 minutes, and then flush.


When to Call a Plumber:
If plunging and augering don’t clear the clog, or if clogs happen frequently, you may have a deeper issue in your pipes that needs professional attention.
2. Running Toilet
What Causes It?
A running toilet wastes water and increases your utility bills. This can happen due to a faulty flapper, malfunctioning fill valve, or improperly adjusted float.
How to Fix It?
Replace the Flapper: Turn off the water, flush the toilet to drain the tank, and replace the worn-out flapper.


Adjust the Float: If the float is set too high, water will continuously run into the overflow tube. Adjust it to the correct level.


When to Call a Plumber:
If you can’t fix the issue by replacing the flapper or adjusting the float, the fill valve may need to be replaced or repaired by a professional.
3. Leaky Toilet Base
What Causes It?
Water around the base of your toilet is usually due to a worn or damaged wax seal. Over time, the wax seal can break down, allowing water to leak.
How to Fix It?
Replace the Wax Seal: Turn off the water supply, remove the toilet, clean off the old wax, and install a new wax seal before reattaching the toilet.


When to Call a Plumber:
If you're not comfortable removing and reinstalling the toilet, or if the issue persists after replacing the wax seal, call a plumber to check for other underlying problems.
4. Low Water Pressure
What Causes It?
Low water pressure in your toilet can occur due to clogged rim jets, a malfunctioning fill valve, or mineral buildup from Arvada’s hard water.
How to Fix It?
Clean the Rim Jets: Use a toothbrush or small brush to remove any mineral buildup blocking the jets.


Inspect the Fill Valve: If the valve is clogged or faulty, clean it or replace it to restore water flow.


When to Call a Plumber:
If cleaning and adjusting the fill valve don’t solve the problem, it may be time to call a plumber to check for deeper issues in your water supply or toilet components.
5. Toilet Overflowing
What Causes It?
Overflowing occurs when the toilet is severely clogged or the flush mechanism is malfunctioning. Blocked drain lines or venting issues may also contribute to overflows.
How to Fix It?
Shut Off the Water Supply: Quickly turn off the water to prevent further overflow.


Clear the Blockage: Use a plunger or toilet auger to clear the clog. If the water level doesn’t drop after this, contact a plumber.


When to Call a Plumber:
If the toilet continues to overflow or you notice recurring issues, the clog could be deep within the plumbing system, requiring professional help.
Conclusion
Toilet plumbing problems can be a headache, but with the right knowledge, many issues can be resolved with DIY fixes. If problems persist or seem beyond your ability, don't hesitate to call a professional plumber in Arvada. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can keep your toilet running smoothly and avoid costly water damage.