Phantom flushing, also known as ghost flushing, can be a frightening sound! Imagine for a minute that you’re the only one in your house, and yet you hear your toilet flushing when you’re not in the bathroom. Your first thought may go to a ghost, but the good news is that there is a logical explanation for what you’re experiencing. However, phantom flushing does mean there is something wrong with your toilet, so be sure to contact Summit Heating, A/C, Plumbing & Electrical in the Denver area for assistance!
Why Does My Toilet Phantom Flush?
Ghost flushing is a problem on its own, yet it also represents a symptom of an even bigger issue. So, what causes it? First, when it flushes without help, it’s because your tank has been leaking into the bowl. Whenever this goes on for long enough, your toilet will phantom flush.
Aside from being noisy, phantom flushing wastes a considerable amount of water. You could be wasting up to 250 gallons of water every single day, especially if you have an older toilet. This can send your water bill soaring! Have an expert perform the necessary repairs immediately to regain efficiency and be more eco-friendly.
Reaching out to the experts at Summit Heating, A/C, Plumbing & Electrical will allow you to get the problem fixed right away! Typically, phantom or ghost flushing occurs when you have a leaky tank. You can find out if it leaks by putting several drops of food coloring in the tank. Then, wait at least a half hour. When you come back, if there is colored water in the bowl, you have a leak.
The most common cause of a leaky toilet is a worn flapper. As the flapper ages, it loses its ability to properly seal. The wear can be accelerated if you use a chemical toilet cleaner in the tank. Toilet flappers typically need to be replaced every three to five years. The flapper may wear out faster if you use a chemical cleaner in the tank. Also, the quality of your tap water can affect how quickly the flapper wears out.
Several other issues can also cause a leaky toilet. For example, have you recently replaced the chain that connects to your flapper? Or is the chain really old? In either instance, it could be causing your flapper to not form a proper seal or to open prematurely. If this is the case, Summit Heating, A/C, Plumbing & Electrical can either reattach or replace your chain.
The most serious cause of a leak is when the tank itself has a crack. Unfortunately, you’ll most likely need to replace the toilet if that’s the case. Our plumbers are available to repair and replace your toilet.
Other Signs That Your Toilet May Need to Be Repaired or Replaced
There are other reasons why your toilet may need to be repaired or replaced. Unfortunately, some of the following issues may be harder to fix than phantom flushing, but Summit Heating, A/C, Plumbing & Electrical is more than up to the job!
It Constantly Clogs
If you have to use your plunger almost every time you go to the bathroom, your toilet is asking for help. There are two potential answers to your problem. First, if you have an older toilet, it may simply not be able to flush efficiently. In this case, it’s best to get a new toilet installed. If it’s not an older toilet, it’s wise to have Summit Heating, A/C, Plumbing & Electrical come check it out. It may still be under warranty, so don’t wait!
You Constantly Call in a Plumber
Has your toilet reached the point where it seems like you’re constantly calling a plumber? In this instance, you’re going to be better off asking for a replacement toilet. After all, the cost of having a plumber repair it just doesn’t make any sense if you’re constantly having them fix something else. They may even discover an issue with your entire plumbing system, which is something you’ll need to fix right away. Basically, stop wasting so much time and money on a toilet that needs to be replaced.
Your Toilet No Longer Flushes
Your toilet has one main job: to flush. Once this stops working, it’s time to have Summit Heating, A/C, Plumbing & Electrical check it out. If you’re lucky, your handle simply needs to be reattached to the flapper. However, if this isn’t the problem, the odds are high that you need to replace your toilet.
It Takes Several Flushes to Work Properly
Everyone has to flush twice occasionally, but when it becomes a regular thing, Denver area residents should call Summit Heating, A/C, Plumbing & Electrical. Several issues can be the culprit, ranging from a clogged rim jet to an improperly installed float. Our experts can assess the issue, and then they’ll either recommend a specific repair or a replacement. Be aware that if you’ve got an older toilet, you’ll most likely need to get a new one.
Minerals Have Built Up
The type of water you have access to plays a big role in what issues it may develop. For example, if there is a high concentration of minerals in your water, these can build up inside your toilet. This buildup can cause your toilet to quit working.
You can look into water filtration or softeners to keep your toilet and other plumbing fixtures trouble-free. Our plumbers stand ready to install these devices. You might be surprised how much better your water tastes after installing a filtration system. If you have hard water, a water softener can extend the life of all your water-using appliances, from the washing machine to your coffee maker.
Your Toilet Has a Crack
Cracks in your toilet can easily lead to leaking, particularly if they’re on the bottom portion of the tank or near the base of the toilet. Anytime you notice one of these, be sure to reach out to a professional plumber. Don’t wait, either, or you could end up with a flooded bathroom. If it’s a slow leak, it could rot the structure under the toilet. If you often hear water running when no taps are on, it’s a good idea to have us check if the toilet has a leak in the base.
Your Toilet Smells Foul
When your toilet is emitting a foul odor, it’s an indicator that the drain is clogged. This is a separate issue from clogging all the time, although the smell should immediately tip you off to the problem. This foul stench is caused by gases that build up when there is a clog. Sadly, this odor will be expelled through vent pipes and fixtures, which means it could end up causing your entire house to stink.
Let Us Fix Your Phantom Flushes and Other Issues
Summit Heating, A/C, Plumbing & Electrical can assist you with your toilet and several other issues in your home. Our experts provide heating, cooling, plumbing, electrical, and indoor air quality services to homeowners throughout the Denver area. Therefore, whether your toilet stops working, your AC breaks, or you need an emergency heater repair, we’re here for you! Contact Summit Heating, A/C, Plumbing & Electrical right away to schedule your appointment.
