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 issue with several possible reasons. Thankfully, none of them are major concerns or expensive to correct. 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 the first step toward fixing it. Consider these possible reasons and the best way to handle each one. 

Partially Closed Water Supply Valve 

Take a peek behind the toilet for the water supply hook-up connected to the wall. You’ll find a valve connected to it, which allows you to close off the water during toilet repairs and replacements. Make sure this value is open by turning it to the left. 

Trouble with the Fill Valve or Tube 

The fill valve, which can be found attached to the top of a vertical tube device in the toilet tank, manages the flow of water into the tank. A toilet fill valve might break down, clog or slip out of alignment after years of use, hindering the tank from filling right. Follow these instructions to adjust, unclog or fix the fill valve: 

• Locate the fill valve: Lift the toilet tank lid and find the fill valve inside. It’s usually mounted 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 connected to the tube. Modify the fill valve height if needed by turning the adjustment knob (typical to newer toilets) or find a flathead screwdriver and loosen the adjustment screw (required for older toilets). After that, make sure the water level is roughly one inch below the top of the overflow tube. 
• Wash the fill valve: To remove mineral accumulation and other dirt from the valve, first shut off the water in the back of 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 15-20 seconds to flush out debris. Next, scrub away mineral buildup off 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 out the valve hardware. Next, run a thin wire or bottle brush down the tube. Start the water supply slightly to flush away the leftover residue. Re-install 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, closing the fill valve once the tank has filled. If the float ball is filled with water, it blocks the tank from filling properly. 

Pull up the tank lid and look inside. A partially submerged float ball could be waterlogged. Prior to replacing the ball, examine the float arm it’s secured to. If the arm is directed too low in the tank, bend it up a little bit to lift the ball’s height. 

If this doesn’t work, then it might be time to just replace the component entirely. But it’s worth remembering that this is an older toilet design, so it may well be better to update the existing tank parts or change out the toilet completely. 

Plugged Plumbing Vent 

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

You’ll need to jump up on the roof to look for clogged plumbing vents. Start looking for long, vertical PVC pipes poking up from the roof tiles. Clear away any animal nests, deep snow or other obstructions you see to guarantee that your plumbing can function as intended. 

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 dilemma could stem from your supply pipes. A problem with the water line itself could stop your toilet tank from filling properly. It’s a good idea to hire a licensed plumber to fix these issues. 

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

Is your toilet still not working right? Turn to Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for reliable toilet repair in the U.S.. We can pinpoint the reason why your toilet is slow to fill and perform a cost-effective repair. If the fixture has reached the end of its typical life span, our company can recommend high-efficiency toilet replacement in the U.S.. We’ll help you pick out the replacement model and install it on your behalf. You can relax knowing that every job we complete is backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee! To schedule a visit from us, please contact Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing today.