Jan 21,2024

What to Do If Your Toilet Is Ghost Flushing

“Ghost flushing” is an unsettling and annoying phenomenon that occurs when your toilet flushes by itself every few minutes, even when no one has used it. This mysterious occurrence is often caused by a slow leak within the toilet’s tank or bowl, causing the water level to drop below a certain point. This often triggers the float to signal the need for a refill continuously. If you are dealing with ghost flushing, call Rooter Man Plumbing. Here are four essential steps to diagnose and resolve the problem.

Check the Flapper

The flapper is a vital component in your toilet’s flushing mechanism. This piece is usually made of rubber or plastic, and covers the flush valve opening at the bottom of the tank. Flushing the toilet lifts the flapper, allowing water to rush into the bowl and create the flush. Ghost flushing can be caused by a faulty flapper. To check the flapper, remove the toilet tank lid and check the flapper’s condition. If it appears worn, cracked, or not sealed properly, replace it. However, a recurrence may show an underlying problem, prompting the expertise of a professional plumbing service.

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Check the Refill Tube

The refill tube leads water from the fill valve into the bowl. Sometimes, if the refill tube is not positioned properly or is disconnected, it can cause ghost flushing. Check the refill tube is attached securely to the fill valve and the overflow tube. Ensure it is short enough, as excess length allows water to drain constantly into the overflow tube, causing the tank to refill unnecessarily. A reputable plumber can adjust the position of the refill tube and ensure it is functioning correctly to prevent ghost flushing.

Check the Entire Flush Valve

The flush valve is a central part of the toilet’s flushing mechanism. It comprises the flush valve seat, flush valve flapper, and flush valve overflow tube. Ghost flushing can occur if a defect or debris is interfering with the functioning of the flush valve. Please turn off the water supply to the toilet and flush it to empty the tank. This will allow you to examine it for any visible damage or debris that may compromise the seal. Clean the components if needed, and consider replacing any damaged parts. If you prefer a more hands-off approach, hire a plumbing service expert to handle the heavy lifting.

Contact a Plumber

If you’ve checked the flapper, refill tube, and flush valve and the ghost flushing issue persists, it’s advisable to contact a professional toilet repair service. Consistent ghost flushing may show a more complex problem, such as a hidden leak or a malfunctioning fill valve. A plumber can perform a thorough inspection, diagnose the root cause of the issue, and provide the right repairs or replacements.

Ghost flushing is a frustrating and inconvenient issue. However, if the issue persists or appears more complex, contact us at Rooter Man Plumbing. We leverage extensive expertise and innovative equipment to provide unmatched toilet repair and maintenance services. Schedule a consultation today and take a proactive approach to addressing ghost flushing.