What if you go to the bathroom and see water shooting out of toilet and flooding all around?
Undoubtedly, it is the worst experience that one may have while going to the washroom. So, it is crucial to stop this water flow. This article will tell you how to stop water shooting out of the toilet.
But before knowing how to stop it, first, we discuss why this issue happens. In the next portion, you will know about those solutions.
Reasons Behind The Water Shooting Out Of Toilet
Every problem has several reasons, and water shooting out of the toilet is not exceptional. So if you know the reasons, then it will be easier for you to solve the problems and take precautionary steps to avoid this in the future. Let’s see what they are
1. Overfull Water Tank
When the water tank is overfilled, it causes uncertain water flow in flushing. Because when you flush, lots of water hits the toilet bowl and overflows upwards.
2. Damaged/Jammed Flapper
A damaged flapper may be one of the causes of an overflow tank or always a running toilet issue. If the flapper is not closed, the tank can’t hold water. As a result, it will constantly flow the water through the bowl. And if the flapper is not opened, the tank will be overfilled.
3. Broken/Cracked Fill Valve
Another common reason for the toilet flooding water is the fill valve is broken. In the tank filling stage, the broken fill valve can’t supply water to the tank. So it will cause a leakage in the line and water overflowing.
4. Cracked Water Tank
A cracked water tank is always dangerous. It starts with a simple hairline and so far turns fully broken or collapsed and flooded in the washroom.
5. Broken Seals
If the seal between the water tank and toilet bowl is broken or cracked, it may cause major water spray out of the toilet.
However, the water shooting problem also creates nasty water skid marks on the toilet. That isn’t pleasant to see. So first, you have to notice your toilet and try to identify the reason for your water shooting out the toilet. Because depending on the issue, you have to take action to solve it.
How To Stop Water Shooting Out Of The Toilet?
Once you identify the causes of water overflowing, it’s time to know the methods to stop it. Here we’ll demonstrate 5 simple methods with easy steps. So you can do this DIY job with minimum plumbing skills.
Method 1 – Adjust The Float
There are two common types of float. One is Ball & Arm Float, and another is Cylinder Float. We’ll describe both of the solutions for your convenience.
How To Adjust The Ball And Arm Float?
- First, remove the water tank lid and check the water level in the tank.
- If the water level is 1-2 inches below the float, then it’s ok.
- But if the water is overflowing, turn the water supply off and empty the tank.
- Check the fill valve and float. Ensure flushing mechanisms are not faulty.
- Check the tank’s float by examining the ball attached to the long arm at the top of the fill valve. Adjust the float if it seems too high and low, and ensure it is properly connected to the valve.
- You can use a screwdriver to lift and lower the float height. Don’t screw more than 1 full rotation that may take the flow too high or low.
How To Adjust The Cylinder Float?
- Open the tank lid and turn off the water supply.
- Now, locate and check the adjustment stem on the float’s side.
- Adjust the release clip by squeezing it on the float. Either locate the adjustment dial ½ inch lift or lower the height of the float.
Method 2 – Fix The Stuck Flapper
The stuck flapper may be totally damaged or moved from its position. If the flapper is not broken or cracked, you can fix the issue by following the steps.
- Empty the water tank and adjust the chain that holds the flapper by lengthening and shortening.
- Clean the dust and minerals from the flapper holes in the toilet bowl.
However, if the flapper is damaged, we recommend changing it. Here’s the process to change it.
- First, you have to buy a new flapper that fits your toilet.
- Next, open the toilet tank’s lid and lower the water level to reach the flapper.
- Disconnect the lift chain, remove the damaged flapper and throw it in a waste bin.
- Finally, place the new flapper and secure its position by connecting its chain.
Method 3 – Replace The Seal Between The Water Tank And Bowl
If the water tank and bowl seal are broken, you must follow this method. You can easily replace the seal between the tank and toilet bowl in a few steps.
- Drain the water from the tank, and detach the water tank.
- Turn the tank upside down.
- Replace the old broken seal with a new seal.
- Tighten the bolts with a screw (if any).
Method 4 – Replace The Water Tank
Yes, if your toilet is an older model, and you have already used it for many years, then it’s natural that your tank may cause water shooting problems. In that case, you have to replace it. Here’re the steps to replace the cracked water tank.
- Turn off the water supply and make the tank empty.
- Disconnect the supply hose from the toilet tank.
- Removing the bolts from the tank, detach them from the toilet bowl.
- Now, set the rubber washer on the bolts of the new water tank.
- Put the new tank on the toilet and screw all the nuts and tighten the bolts.
- Connect the water supply hose and turn it on. Finally, check if the tank is ok to not.
Method 5 – Install A New Fill Valve
Is your toilet fill valve broken? Fixing it by changing seals or screws or different coating is too expensive and not worth enough. Moreover, you may install a new fill valve for your toilet.
You may contact a professional plumber to replace the old valve. Either, follow the steps.
- Turn the water supply off and drain all the water from the tank.
- Remove the existing fill valve and put it in place.
- Set the washer properly and tighten all the bolts carefully.
- Turn on the water supply.
What Tools Do You Need To Fix Toilets?
It’s one of the most common questions for DIY enthusiasts who love to solve their toilet issues. Because without having tools, any expert can’t handle those problems. Here, as a DIY enthusiast, how can you manage them?
So it’s better to know the common tools and have them at your home. Some common plumbing tools are Plunger, Toilet Auger, Basin Wrench, Plumber’s Putty, Caulking Gun, Duct Tape, Screwdriver, Pipe Wrench, and Needle Nose Pliers. Not all of them are necessary for all types of toilet fixing, but if you have them your fixing will be easier and faster.
Moreover, some other dedicated tools you may need for a particular or cleaning purpose. Such as for fixing the sticky flapper, you will need additional tools like Wire, Sponge & Bucket, Funnel, and Toothpick. If your toilet releases a urine smell, you must need Muriatic Acid to prevent it.
In addition, for safety purposes, you should use rubber gloves, a mask, and eyeglasses.
Related Questions
Should I replace the whole toilet?
You should go for a replacement toilet if it is broken or cracked. But if it is the issue with the valve or water tank or others which is detachable, it is not mandatory to replace the whole toilet. But if you want to use the bathroom for a long time without any issue, you may change it.
Why call a plumber?
A professional plumber can identify the error quickly and efficiently fix the problems like water shooting out of the toilet and others.
We always recommend DIY if you have enough experience to handle the task. Because if you try to fix this without any expertise, it may turn the whole mechanism faulty. So, contacting professionals can be a relief.
Why is water shooting out of my toilet?
Water shooting out of your toilet may be caused by a clog in the drain or a problem with the tank’s components.
How do I fix water shooting out of my toilet?
Fixing water shooting out of your toilet depends on the cause, but it often involves cleaning the tank components or removing the clog.
How do I know if there’s a clog in my toilet?
Signs of a clog in your toilet include slow draining, gurgling sounds, and water backing up into the bowl.
Can I use a plunger to fix water shooting out of my toilet?
Yes, a plunger can often remove a clog causing water to shoot out of your toilet. Make sure to use a plunger specifically designed for toilets.
How do I clean the tank components of my toilet?
Turn off the water supply to the toilet, remove the lid of the tank, and clean the components with a scrub brush and a mixture of water and vinegar.
Should I call a professional plumber to fix water shooting out of my toilet?
If you’re unsure of how to fix the problem, it’s best to call a professional plumber to avoid causing further damage.
In Conclusion
Hopefully, now you know why water shooting out of toilet and how to stop it. Once you go through the full article if you have a little DIY skill you can do it yourself. But before starting your DIY job, we recommend collecting necessary tools and preparing yourself by wearing a mask, and hand gloves.
However, if you think you need someone assistant, you can seek help from your partner or kids. Basically, doing a DIY job is a fun experience that uplift your confidence. So it’s better to involve your partner and kids.