How To Stop a Toilet From Flushing

6/14/2022 (Permalink)

A toilet overflow can be a problem in any commercial building.

How to Prevent Toilet Flushing

A toilet overflow can be a problem in any commercial building. What do you do when a toilet will not stop flushing? There are several things you can do to address the issue.

1. Determine the Flushometer Type

Flushometers are the devices that cause commercial toilets to flush. Some are manual but many are now automatic. The correct solution to a toilet flood may depend on the type of flushometer that the toilet uses.

2. Shut Off the Water to Prevent Toilet Overflow

On one side of the flushometer, there should be a slot for a flathead screwdriver. Using a screwdriver at this spot allows you to turn the water off.

3. Remove the Flushometer's Lid (Manual)

For a toilet with a manual flushometer, use a wrench to loosen the lid at the top. Once the lid has been loosened, you will be able to screw it off. Remove the flange as well, and do not be alarmed if small amounts of water spray from it.

4. Clean the Gasket (Manual)

After you remove the flange, you will be able to see the gasket. Remove the gasket and clean it thoroughly. Use something small and precise to help you clean the weep hole. After you clean the gasket and weep hole, put everything back together following the previous steps. If there is still toilet overflow, you may need to replace the gasket entirely.

For commercial toilets with automatic flushometers, you can shut off the water using the same screwdriver technique that you would use on a manual flushometer. You may need a plumber to help you determine whether you need to replace the diaphragm kit or service the solenoid.

You can follow these steps to stop a toilet from flushing. If your building experiences water damage, it is a good idea to look for water restoration services in Ballard, WA, as soon as possible.