Why Is My Toilet Slow to Fill?

Have you noticed that your toilet is taking longer to refill after flushing? This is a frequent toilet problem with numerous possible culprits. Luckily, none of them are major concerns or expensive to deal with. Follow this guide to get your slow toilet functioning properly again.

How to Fix a Slow-Filling Toilet

Finding out why your toilet is slow to fill is your first step toward fixing it. Consider these potential reasons and the best way to handle each one.

Partially Closed Water Supply Valve

Look behind the toilet for the water supply line attached to the wall. You’ll find a valve attached to it, which helps you to shut off the water during toilet repairs and replacements. Make sure this value is open by turning it to the left.

Issues with the Fill Valve or Tube

The fill valve, which is attached to the top of a vertical tube device in the toilet tank, regulates the flow of water into the tank. A toilet fill valve might degrade, clog or slip out of alignment after years of use, stopping the tank from filling appropriately. Follow these tips to adjust, clean or fix the fill valve:

Locate the fill valve: Lift the toilet tank lid and find the fill valve inside. It’s normally secured 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: Be certain the fill valve is secure and evenly fastened to the tube. Modify the fill valve height if required by twisting the adjustment knob (typical to newer toilets) or use a flathead screwdriver to loosen and adjust (required for older toilets). Next, ensure that the water level is roughly one inch below the top of the overflow tube.
Wash the fill valve: To remove mineral buildup and other sludge from the valve, first shut off the water in the back of the toilet and remove the fill cap. After that, slowly turn the water back on, cupping your hand over the valve to keep from being sprayed. Let some water flow for 15-20 seconds to flush out debris. Next, scrub away mineral buildup on the fill cap. If you detect cracks or substantial wear and tear, replace the valve.
Clean the valve tube: Debris trapped in the valve tube could also be the culprit. Shut off the water supply and take off the valve hardware. Afterward, run a thin wire or bottle brush down the tube. Open the water supply slightly to rinse away the leftover residue. Reconnect the valve hardware and see if the toilet fills quicker.

Waterlogged Float Ball

The float ball in older toilet models rises with the water level, closing the fill valve when the tank is full. If the float ball takes on water, it prevents the tank from filling properly.

Remove the tank lid and view inside. A partially submerged float ball may be waterlogged. Prior to replacing the ball, look at the float arm it’s attached to. If the arm is directed too low in the tank, bend it up somewhat to elevate the ball’s height.

If that fails to solve the issue, you may be able to install a new float ball. Just be aware that this is old toilet technology, so it may well be better to upgrade the existing tank components or change out the toilet entirely.

Blocked Plumbing Vent

Your home plumbing system uses vents that enable air to enter the pipes. If they become clogged, pressure may build inside of the pipes, stopping the water from flowing. This can, in turn, make your toilet slow to fill or even cause the bowl to flood.

You should grab a ladder and climb up on the roof to search for clogged plumbing vents. Look for long, vertical PVC pipes poking up from the shingles. Get rid of 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 problem could stem from your supply pipes. A water line leak could restrict your toilet tank from filling appropriately. It’s safest to hire a licensed plumber to handle these issues.

Schedule Toilet Repair with Aramendia Plumbing, Heating and Air

If these tips did not handle your issue, look to Aramendia Plumbing, Heating and Air for reliable toilet repair in San Antonio. We can identify the reason why your toilet is slow to fill and perform a cost-effective repair. If the fixture has reached the end of its useful life span, our company can propose high-efficiency toilet replacement in San Antonio. We’ll help you find the replacement model and install it on your behalf. You can relax knowing that every job we complete is supported by a 100% satisfaction guarantee! To schedule a visit from us, please connect with Aramendia Plumbing, Heating and Air today.