Disclaimer: This content is provided for educational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. We do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any information presented. We are not liable for any actions taken based on this content. For specific issues or decisions, we recommend seeking professional advice.
Author: David, Aus plumbers blog.
Toilets are one of the most essential fixtures in any home, yet they often develop problems that can be frustrating and inconvenient. Whether it’s a running toilet, a weak flush, or a leaking base, these issues can lead to wasted water and increased utility bills.
As someone who has helped customers with various plumbing challenges, I know how daunting these problems can seem. The good news? Most common toilet issues can be fixed without calling a plumber—as long as you know what to do. In this guide, I’ll walk you through some of the most frequent toilet problems in Australian homes and practical solutions to fix them.
Running Toilet
A running toilet is not just annoying—it can waste up to 750 litres of water per day if left unfixed, significantly increasing your water bill (source). This issue is usually caused by:
Causes:
- A faulty flapper valve (does not seal properly, allowing water to continuously flow into the bowl).
- An improperly adjusted float.
- A fill valve that doesn’t shut off correctly.
How to Fix It:
- Check the Flapper Valve – Lift the toilet tank lid and inspect the rubber flapper. If it’s worn out or cracked, replace it with a new one.
- Adjust the Float – If the water level is too high, lower the float to prevent excess water from entering the overflow tube.
- Replace the Fill Valve – If adjusting the float doesn’t work, replace the fill valve to stop continuous water flow.
Weak or Incomplete Flush
A toilet that doesn’t flush properly can be a major inconvenience. It’s usually caused by:
Causes:
- Clogged rim jets (small holes under the rim that release water during a flush).
- Low water level in the tank.
- Partial blockages in the drain pipe.
How to Fix It:
- Clean the Rim Jets – Use a wire brush or vinegar to remove mineral buildup from the jets.
- Check the Water Level – Adjust the fill valve to ensure the tank fills to the appropriate level (marked inside the tank).
- Use a Plunger or Drain Cleaner – If you suspect a partial blockage, plunge the toilet or use a safe toilet drain cleaner.
Leaking Toilet Base
If you notice water pooling around the toilet base, it’s a sign of a leaking wax seal or loose bolts. Ignoring this problem can lead to water damage and mould growth.
Causes:
- A worn-out wax ring.
- Loose or broken toilet flange bolts.
- Cracks in the toilet base (less common but possible).
How to Fix It:
- Tighten the Toilet Bolts – If the toilet wobbles, tighten the bolts at the base carefully (but don’t overtighten, as this can crack the porcelain).
- Replace the Wax Seal – Turn off the water supply, remove the toilet, scrape off the old wax ring, and replace it with a new one.
- Check for Cracks – If the toilet base has cracks, you may need to replace the toilet entirely.
Toilet Won’t Stop Overflowing
A toilet that overflows every time you flush can create a mess. This is usually caused by:
Causes:
- A clogged drain or sewer line.
- A malfunctioning fill valve.
- A stuck flapper valve.
How to Fix It:
- Turn Off the Water Supply – Locate the shut-off valve behind the toilet and turn it clockwise to stop water flow.
- Use a Plunger – If the toilet is clogged, use a strong plunger to clear the blockage.
- Use a Toilet Auger – For stubborn clogs, a toilet auger (plumbing snake) can reach deeper into the pipes to break up debris.
Gurgling Sounds from the Toilet
If your toilet gurgles or bubbles when flushing, it could be a sign of a blocked vent pipe or drain line.
Causes:
- A partially blocked sewer vent pipe (prevents air from escaping, leading to air bubbles in the toilet).
- A clogged drain line.
How to Fix It:
- Try a Plunger First – If the issue is minor, a few strong plunges may resolve it.
- Check Other Drains – If multiple drains are slow or making noises, the issue may be in the main sewer line.
- Call a Plumber if Needed – If gurgling persists, a professional inspection may be necessary to clear deep blockages in the vent pipe.
Toilet Smells Even After Cleaning
If your toilet still smells bad despite regular cleaning, there could be an underlying plumbing issue.
Causes:
- A dry or blocked P-trap (prevents sewer gases from escaping).
- A leaking wax ring, allowing odours to seep through.
- Bacteria buildup in hidden areas.
How to Fix It:
- Pour Water into the P-trap – If the toilet hasn’t been used for a while, pour water into the bowl to refill the trap.
- Replace the Wax Seal – If odours are coming from the toilet base, replacing the wax ring can help.
- Use an Enzyme Cleaner – For persistent smells, an enzyme-based toilet cleaner can help eliminate bacteria.
Most toilet problems in Australian homes are easy to fix with a little DIY effort. Whether it’s a running toilet, a weak flush, or a leak, resolving these issues promptly can save you from costly repairs and high water bills.
Need Professional Help?
If you’ve tried these solutions but still experience toilet troubles, it may be time to call a professional plumber for toilet installation. Addressing plumbing issues early prevents more significant damage and keeps your home’s plumbing system running smoothly.
Retailwire
Latest posts by Retailwire (see all)
- Australians gear up for Boxing Day shopping on the 26th - December 24, 2025
- Building a Successful Ecommerce Business in Australia: Practical Lessons, Shipping Realities, and Why Freight Forwarders Matter - December 20, 2025
- Apple September Event 2025: Everything You Need to Know - September 10, 2025