Toilet Troubles: How Plumbers Fix Sticking Floats for Smooth Flushing
Indoor plumbing and flush toilets are undoubtedly modern conveniences you enjoy. Yet, even these dependable fixtures can present challenges when your toilet experiences a sticking float issue. Thankfully, professional plumbers possess the expertise and equipment needed to restore your toilet’s smooth flushing functionality. This article discusses the causes of toilet float sticking and the effective solution provided by plumbers through hydro jetting.
Why Does the Float Stick?
There are several reasons why a toilet float may become stuck:
Mineral Buildup: Over time, minerals from the water supply can accumulate on the float, making it heavy and less buoyant. This can cause the float to remain in a lowered position, preventing the tank from filling to the correct level.
Damaged Parts: The float, lever arm, or other components inside the toilet tank may become damaged or corroded. When this happens, it hinders their smooth operation.
Water Pressure Issues: Fluctuations in water pressure can affect the float’s ability to move freely. If the water pressure is too low, the float may not rise adequately to shut off the water supply, resulting in continuous running water.
Obstructions: Debris or foreign objects in the toilet tank can interfere with the float’s movement, causing it to stick.
The Importance of a Smooth-Running Toilet
A sticking float can lead to several problems, including:
Wasted Water: A stuck float can result in water continuously running into the toilet bowl, wasting a significant amount of water over time and causing your water bill to rise.
Inefficient Flushing: If the float doesn’t allow enough water into the tank, your toilet may not flush effectively, leading to clogs and backups.
Frustration: Dealing with a malfunctioning toilet can be an ongoing source of frustration and inconvenience.
The Solution: Hydro Jetting
Hydro jetting is a process that uses high-pressure water to clear obstructions and mineral deposits from plumbing pipes and fixtures. While it’s often associated with clearing clogs in sewer lines, it can also be used to address toilet float sticking issues. Here’s how plumbers use hydro jetting to resolve the problem:
Assessment: The plumber will start by assessing the extent of the sticking float issue. They will examine the float, lever arm, and other components in the toilet tank to identify the root cause of the problem.
Shutting Off Water: To work on the toilet, the plumber will shut off the water supply to the tank. This ensures no water is flowing while repairs are underway.
Disassembly: The plumber may need to disassemble the toilet tank to access the float and other components. This step allows them to clean, repair, or replace any parts that are causing the sticking issue.
Hydro Jetting: With the tank disassembled, the plumber will use a specialized hydro jetting tool to clean the interior of the tank. The high-pressure water stream effectively removes mineral buildup, debris, and other obstructions that may be causing the float to stick.
Reassembly and Testing: After cleaning and making any necessary repairs, the plumber will reassemble the toilet tank. They will then test the float and flushing mechanism to ensure everything is functioning correctly.
Adjustment: In some cases, the plumber may need to make adjustments to the float’s positioning or the water level in the tank to achieve optimal performance.
In conclusion, a sticking float in your toilet can be a frustrating problem, but it’s one that plumbers can easily resolve using hydro jetting. Understanding the reasons behind toilet float sticking and the importance of a well-functioning toilet can help you appreciate the value of professional plumbing services. So, the next time you find yourself facing toilet troubles, don’t hesitate to call in the experts to ensure a smooth and hassle-free flushing experience.
