Why Is My Toilet Slow to Fill?

Have you noticed that your toilet is taking longer to refill after flushing? This is a common toilet problem with several possible causes. Fortunately, none of them are serious concerns or expensive to correct. Follow this guide to get your slow toilet working efficiently again. 

How to Repair a Slow-Filling Toilet 

Learning why your toilet is slow to fill is step #1 for fixing it. Keep in mind these potential reasons and how to deal with each one. 

Partially Closed Water Supply Valve 

Check behind the toilet for the water supply line attached to the wall. You’ll see a valve connected to it, which enables you to turn off the water when your toilet is being repaired or replaced. Check this valve to make sure it’s completely open. 

Issues with the Fill Valve or Tube 

The fill valve, which is close to the top of a vertical tube device in the toilet tank, controls the water flow into the tank. A toilet fill valve may break down, clog or move out of alignment after years of use, stopping the tank from filling appropriately. Follow these tips to adjust, clean or fix the fill valve: 

• Search for the fill valve: Remove the toilet tank lid and find the fill valve inside. It’s commonly installed on the left side with a tailpiece extending through the bottom of the tank and attaching to the supply tube and shut-off valve. 
• Adjust the fill valve: Check that the fill valve is secure and evenly fastened to the tube. Modify the fill valve height if necessary by twisting the adjustment knob (typical to newer toilets) or loosening the adjustment screw with a flathead screwdriver (required for older toilets). After that, check that the water level is about one inch below the top of the overflow tube. 
• Wash the fill valve: To get rid of mineral accumulation and other debris from the valve, first shut off the water behind the toilet and remove the fill cap. Then, slowly turn the water back on, cupping your hand over the valve to avoid getting sprayed. Allow the water to flow for several seconds to flush out debris. Next, scrub away mineral buildup on the fill cap. If you notice cracks or significant wear and tear, replace the valve. 
• Clean the valve tube: Dirt trapped in the valve tube could also be at fault. Turn off the water supply and take out the valve hardware. Then, run a thin wire or bottle brush down the tube. Turn back on the water supply slightly to clean away the leftover residue. Replace the valve hardware and see if the toilet fills properly. 

Waterlogged Float Ball 

The float ball in older toilet models rises with the water level, sealing the fill valve whenever the tank has filled. If the float ball is damaged or punctured and fills with water, it keeps the tank from filling properly. 

Take off the tank lid and look inside. A partially sunken float ball could be waterlogged. Prior to replacing the ball, examine the float arm it’s attached to. If the arm is directed too low in the tank, bend it up somewhat to lift the ball’s height. 

If this doesn’t work, you might want to simply buy a new float ball; the average cost of this product ranges between $7-$20 in most hardware or home improvement stores. Just remember that this is old toilet technology, so it might possibly be better to modernize the existing tank parts or replace the toilet entirely. 

Blocked Plumbing Vent 

Your home plumbing system features vents that enable air to enter the pipes. If they are clogged, stress may build within the pipes, blocking the water from flowing. This can, in turn, make your toilet slow to fill or even cause the bowl to overflow. 

You should grab a ladder and climb up on the roof to check for clogged plumbing vents. Start looking for long, vertical PVC pipes poking up from the shingles. Clear away any animal nests, deep snow or other obstructions you find to ensure your plumbing works properly. 

Leaky or Blocked Pipe 

If nothing is wrong with the water supply valve, fill valve and tube, float ball or plumbing vents, the slow toilet issue could stem from your supply pipes. A leak or blockage in the water line could restrict your toilet tank from filling appropriately. It’s a good idea to hire a licensed plumber to handle these issues. 

Schedule Toilet Repair with Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing 

When all else fails, turn to Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for reliable toilet repair in the U.S.. We can figure out the reason why the water flow is so slow and perform a cost-effective repair. If the fixture has hit the end of its useful life span, our specialists can propose high-efficiency toilet replacement in the U.S.. We’ll help you decide on the replacement model and install it for you. Relax knowing that every job we perform is backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee! To schedule a visit from us, please contact Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing today.