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 predicament with several possible culprits. Fortunately, none of them are major concerns or costly to deal with. Follow this guide to get your slow toilet functioning efficiently again. 

How to Repair a Slow-Filling Toilet 

Learning why your toilet is slow to refill is the first step toward fixing it. Keep in mind these possible reasons and how to handle each one. 

Partially Closed Water Supply Valve 

Take a peek behind the toilet for the water supply line attached to the wall. You’ll notice a valve connecting to it, which enables you to shut off the water during toilet repairs and replacements. Check this valve to make sure it’s completely open. 

Issues with the Fill Valve or Tube 

The fill valve, which is connected to the top of a vertical tube device in the toilet tank, controls the water level flowing into the tank. A toilet fill valve could degrade, clog or reposition out of alignment after years of use, stopping the tank from filling properly. Follow these instructions to adjust, unclog 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 linking 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. Change the fill valve height if necessary by turning the adjustment knob (found in newer toilets) or use a flathead screwdriver to loosen and adjust (required for older toilets). After that, check that the water level is about one inch below the top of the overflow tube. 
  • Clear debris from the fill valve: To remove mineral buildup and other dirt from the valve, first shut off the water behind the toilet and take off the fill cap. Then, slowly turn the water back on, cupping your hand over the valve to prevent from being sprayed by the water. Let the water flow for 15-20 seconds to flush out the buildup. Next, scrub away mineral buildup on the fill cap. If you observe cracks or significant wear and tear, replace the valve. 
  • Clean the valve tube: Debris trapped in the valve tube could also be to blame. Turn off the water supply and remove the valve hardware. Afterward, run a thin wire or bottle brush into the tube. Open the water supply slightly to flush away the remaining residue. Re-install the valve hardware and verify if the toilet fills faster now. 

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 damaged or punctured and fills with water, it keeps the tank from filling efficiently. 

Pull up the tank lid and peek inside. A partially sunken float ball could be waterlogged. Prior to replacing the ball, check the float arm it’s attached to. If the arm is directed too low in the tank, bend it up slightly to raise the ball’s height. 

If that fails to solve the issue, then it might be time to just replace the component entirely. Just be aware that this is an older toilet design, so it may be better to upgrade the existing tank parts or switch out the toilet completely. 

Blocked Plumbing Vent 

Your home plumbing system features vents that allow air to enter the pipes. If they end up being clogged, stress may build inside of the pipes, blocking the water from flowing. This can, in turn, make your toilet fill slowly or even cause the bowl to overrun. 

You’ll need to jump up on the roof to search for clogged plumbing vents. Look for long, vertical PVC pipes poking up from the roof tiles. Do away with any animal nests, deep snow or other obstructions you notice 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 water line leak could stop your toilet tank from filling correctly. It’s a good idea to hire a licensed plumber to tackle 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 dependable toilet repair in the U.S.. We can identify the reason why your toilet is slow to fill and perform the most appropriate repair. If the fixture has hit the end of its typical life span, our team can propose high-efficiency toilet replacement in the U.S.. We’ll help you pick out the replacement model and install it on your behalf. Relax knowing that every job we perform is supported by a 100% satisfaction guarantee! To schedule a visit from us, please contact Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing today. 

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