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D.I.Y.: Tips to solve common toilet problems

7:00 am November 11, 2009, by Rana Cash

One of the most expensive calls you can make is to a plumber. Well, dialing the number is free, but the cost of a plumbers’ services is never, ever cheap.

That’s why it is good to know how to do simple D.I.Y. projects that could keep you from using a plumber. If your work doesn’t fix the problem, you may be out a few dollars or a bit more in sweat equity. Still, you’ll feel better knowing you at least tried to make the repair first.

A common call made to plumbers is about leaking toilets, a problem that adds to your water bill and your frustration level. Before you dial, check out these tips from the DIY Network on solving common problems.

They include addressing:

  • Water trickling into the bowl
  • Water trickling into the tank
  • The bowl emptying slowly
  • Fixing a clog
  • Repairing leaky seals

Have a story idea? Email rcash@ajc.com

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10 comments Add your comment

Rasheeed

November 11th, 2009
2:19 pm

This blog has gone into the crapper.

Rasheeed

November 11th, 2009
2:20 pm

I once laid a turd so big I took a picture of it and mailed it to John Smoltz.

Rana Cash

November 11th, 2009
2:35 pm

Rasheeed, let’s not go there. This blog entry is designed to help people save money by providing helpful DIY tips on everything from toilet leaks, to house painting, to pest control, to grooming your pet. Last week’s entry was on childproofing your home. These days, people are strapped for money and may not be able to afford to call for a plumber or someone else to come in and fix some of these issues. With these tips, provided every Tuesday, the hope is they’ll be able to help themselves.

GT Rules

November 11th, 2009
2:43 pm

I would like to get paid to write this blog. I could do it during my morning coffee.

Here is my first entry: Want to save money on oil changes? Go to DIY and look up how to do it.

Check please!

Morningside Plumbing, Heating & Air

November 11th, 2009
2:45 pm

It is a good idea to have the basic knowledge for these types of situations. If you DO find yourself needing to call a plumber, give us a call at 404.873.1881, or visit us online at morningsideplumbing.com.

Billy Knuckleball

November 11th, 2009
3:09 pm

I’ll add a few more to Rana’s reference list. I hope these help.

Prescriptions: Walgreens, CVS, Rite Aide, Kroger, Publix
Car trouble: Pep Boys
Groceries: Kroger or Publix
Home improvement: Home Depot or Lowes

How much do I get paid for this?

Erica

November 11th, 2009
3:11 pm

Rana,

Thank you for this topic. I actually have a toilet-related issue and am strapped for cash right now, but I don’t want to gross out anyone by going into to too much detail.

This past weekend, someone had an “accident” in my home bathroom. To make a long story quick, does anyone have any cheap, BUT GOOD, solutions for safely & effectively cleaning diarrhea off of painted drywall and baseboard next to the toilet?

I don’t have money or time to repaint the whole bathroom right now but don’t know how to clean that “stuff” off.

MANY THANKS to anyone who help with a cheap solution that truly WORKS without damaging anything further.

Jodi

November 11th, 2009
5:35 pm

Erica – just hit up the cleaning aisle and look for something safe for drywall/baseboard. If all else fail, try a bleach solution with 3 part water/ 1 part bleach

I believe Rana is doing a great job and as a woman (with 4 toilets in my house), this entry is helpful.

Jeff in Roswell

November 13th, 2009
10:24 am

Rana, don’t worry about the knuckleheads on here. Keep doing what you’re doing. I am in the contracting business, but I agree that there are homeowners out there that don’t mind rolling up their sleeves and getting a little dirty. There’s no reason that people can’t do some of these things themselves.

Robin

November 13th, 2009
4:25 pm

Rana – ignore the “crap” some folks post. Pun intended!

We love your blog, and you have been very helpful.

Erica – get some bleach spray cleaner, and spray your wall, floor, baseboard. Bleach is about the only thing that can really kill e-coli. Then, you should be able to just paint over the drywall if needed.