How to Fix a Flapper Flush Valve With a Weak Flush

A toilet with a weak flush does not adequately clear the contents of the bowl when the flush handle is pushed. Weak flushing can result from several causes, including inadequate water level in the tank or water inlet holes under the bowl rim that are plugged by water deposits. One common reason for a weak flush, however, is a flapper valve in the bottom of the tank that does not open wide enough or remain open long enough to discharge sufficient water to flush the bowl completely. This is usually the consequence of too much slack in the flapper chain connected to the trip lever in the tank. The chain should have approximately 1/2 inch of slack to open the valve fully while still allowing it to close and seal properly.

Wire cutters

Instructions

- 1
  Turn off the water supply to the toilet at the valve underneath the toilet.
- 2
  Remove the toilet tank lid and set it aside.
- 3
  Push the flush lever to drain the tank of water. Dip out any residual water at the bottom of the tank with a cup.
- 4
  Unhook the link in the flapper chain where it connects to the small end of the hook attaching it to the trip lever.
- 5
  Take up enough links in the flapper chain so only approximately 1/2 inch of slack remains in the chain with the flapper valve completely closed. Hold the link between your fingers to mark the correct link.
- 6
  Hook the link in the flapper chain onto the small end of the hook attaching it to the trip lever.
- 7
  Snip off the surplus chain created by taking out the slack with a pair of wire cutters so it does not tangle or interfere with the operation of the flapper chain.
- 8
  Turn the water supply valve on. After the tank fills, flush the toilet to verify that the flapper opens completely and does not close until the entire contents of the tank have emptied into the bowl.
- 9
  Replace the toilet tank lid.

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