Try to clear toilet
2Try water force
3Use plunger
Locate problem
2Check float valve and float
3Call plumber
PLUMBING PROBLEMS
191
BLOCKED TOILET
1
Try to clear toilet
• If the contents of the toiletbowl do not flow away when the toilet is flushed, the toilet is blocked.
• Do not keep flushing in the hope that this will remove the blockage: water may build up in the bowl and overflow.
• Use a bent wire coat hanger or a snake to remove a blockage just beyond the bend.
2Try water force
• If this fails, bail some water out of the bowl to reduce the level.
• Pour a bucket of water into the toilet. If the blockage is minor, the force of the water rushing down into the bowl can be enough to dislodge it.
3Use plunger
• If the toilet is still blocked, get a toilet plunger or improvise by tying a plastic bag around the head of an old mop.
• Pump the plunger up and down in the bowl, but be careful not to use too much force: you risk cracking the bowl.
• If the toilet remains blocked, or you prefer not to try any of these techniques, call a plumber.
Plunge firmly but carefully so that you do not crack the bowl
DRIPPING OVERFLOW PIPE
1
Locate problem
• A dripping overflow pipe from a water tank or toilet cistern indicates that the correct water level is not being maintained.
• Do not ignore a dripping overflow: the drip could suddenly turn into a serious leak, which could cause a flood, or the water may freeze and result in a burst pipe.
• Look in the water tank or lift the cover of the cistern. Floating on the water is an object attached to the tank or cistern side. This float is joined to a float valve, which should close off the supply from the main when the tank or cistern is full.
2Check float valve and float
• Check the float valve first. If the washer is worn, water will continue to trickle into the tank or cistern even when the float has reached its uppermost position.
• Examine the float to see if it is leaking. Give it a shake to see whether there is water inside.
• If necessary, buy a new washer or float to replace the faulty one.
3Call plumber
• If the valve is broken, you will need to call a plumber to repair it.