Repairing a Commercial Toilet That Won't Stop Flushing

9/1/2022 (Permalink)

A perpetually flushing toilet in your commercial building is a real nuisance. Nobody wants to deal with toilet overflow. If it's not addressed, this issue can cause water or mold damage, requiring you to consult a water damage restoration professional in Bolivar, Washington, or Sunflower County to assess any damage and keep your building sanitary and safe. 

If you can’t stop a toilet from flushing, it's time to check the gasket in the flushometer. Fortunately, this task is easy to do. When the gasket becomes dirty or damaged, it will leak, and your toilet won’t stop flushing, causing toilet overflow. Here are four simple steps to deal with a faulty gasket.

1. Gather Your Tools

Before you start working on the plumbing issue, make sure you have the following tools:

• Flathead screwdriver
• Wrench
• Soft, absorbent cloth
• Fine piece of wire

2. Turn Off the Water To Curb a Toilet Flood

Facing the toilet, you’ll see a slotted circle or a circular cover located on the short arm opposite the flush lever. If there is a cover, pry it off. Insert the screwdriver into the slot and turn to shut off the water.

3. Remove the Gasket

Use your wrench to loosen the gasket cover, which is the large, flat-sided circle at the very top of the unit. Avoid scratching the chrome by using your cloth between the wrench and the gasket cover. Loosen it just a bit, then turn it by hand. Use your cloth to soak up any water that leaked out.

4. Clean or Replace the Gasket

Clean any buildup or debris from the gasket and use your fine wire to clear the little weep hole. Be careful not to enlarge the hole. If the gasket is damaged, replace it with a new one. Put the gasket in place, replace the cover and tighten. Don't forget to turn the water back on when you're finished.
Don't tolerate a constantly flushing toilet. Clean or replace your flushometer gasket to avoid toilet overflow.