Do you have a problem with your toilet? Maybe there’s a clog or blockage. Many homeowners may simply continue to flush, expecting it to solve the issue. Not only is this counterintuitive, but it can worsen the problem.
A common problem that may occur is an overflowing toilet, as all the contents get washed up. That can lead to a messy, unhygienic situation in the bathroom. You will need to get the toilet repaired as soon as possible.
In most cases, you should call a plumber to help you reconfigure your broken toilet. This professional will diagnose the cause and figure out how to resolve problems. Your toilet will be back in working order.
However, homeowners also have the option of repairing the toilet themselves. The best way to do so is to examine the root of the problem. Find out why the toilet isn’t working.
If you choose the DIY route, the first step is shutting off the water. Doing so is vital because it allows you to approach the toilet safely.
Shutting off the water will make inspecting the situation much more manageable. Afterwards, you can proceed with the next steps of the process and look into why the toilet doesn’t work properly.
Let’s go over the steps on how you can turn off the water to your toilet.
Table of Contents
Toilet Valve
Of course, the main way to get rid of water entering the toilet is to focus on the shut-off valve. These valves can be found connected to many other respective appliances in the home.
For the toilet, you will also be able to use it to effectively shut the water out from entering. Just be sure to know what model of toilet you are working with.
That is because older toilet models may not necessarily have a shut-off valve. This is because they have rarely been used, as the toilet can be fixed in other ways.
However, recent models will almost always have this valve attached near the bottom, just in case.
Main Valve
In peculiar situations where the toilet’s shut-off valve does not work, turn your focus elsewhere. As mentioned, you will have a primary valve connecting all major appliances. It is here where you will have to shut it off, should you choose to cut the water off to your toilet.
Before you do this, you have to ensure that all other appliances connected to the valve are not in use. In many cases, this particular valve is located near your home’s water meter. Turn it clockwise to shut off the water and ensure it is fully off. You may need to use extra force to turn it, as it will rarely have been used.
Toilet Float
Sometimes, all that is needed to get rid of water in your toilet is to adjust the float. Take off the tank’s lid, and locate the float component. Usually, it will appear in a ball and cylinder format. This component will be connected to a toilet fill valve, connected to how much water enters.
Make sure that you maintain the float’s position remains at the top. Once flushed, the stationary position will not allow further water to enter until it is moved again. To allow for re-entry, simply move the float again. It is as easy as that!
Water Supply Line
You may have to disconnect the water’s entire supply line in emergencies. It is the steel braided line near the bottom of the toilet for easy access. Cover the line with a bag after removing it so no water spurts out.
Avoid Chemicals
Many homeowners may also be inclined to fix their plagued toilets with chemical-based products. Once you decide to go this route, one of several things may occur.
It could potentially solve the issue, provided you use it efficiently. Or, it could make the problem much worse.
You always want to be safer than sorry when using these substances. Generally speaking, chemical products should only be reserved for removing clogs in the toilet.
In all other situations, you should look to turn off the water instead. This will expedite the solution process, so you will be well on your way.