Quick Answer:
If your toilet flush seems to leave solids behind, the most common causes are a weak siphon (often caused by partial jet blockage) or a low tank water level. Start by checking the tank level and the rim and siphon jets for mineral buildup. A simple brush and a vinegar soak can restore jet flow; if these checks don’t fix the problem, try a plunger or toilet auger, and call a plumber if evacuation still fails.
Why This Happens
- Toilet flushing depends on a quick, strong siphon created by water rushing from the bowl through the trapway. If that rush is reduced, solids can remain.
- Rim jets (small holes around the bowl rim) and the siphon jet (a larger hole near the trap) can collect mineral deposits and slow the water flow.
- A tank water level set too low gives less volume and less force during the flush, weakening siphon action.
- Partial clogs in the trapway or drain reduce flow even when the tank and jets are fine.
- External factors such as supply pressure or recent work on the toilet can also change flush behavior — see **Flush strength dropped after city outage** and **Weak flush after replacing parts** for related situations.
Step-by-Step What to Do
1. Observe one controlled flush
- Flush once and watch how water moves. Note whether the bowl fills quickly and water is drawn down with a clear siphon action or if it just rises and slowly drops.
- A single test avoids overflow risk and gives diagnostic clues.
2. Check the tank water level
- Open the tank lid and confirm the water sits at the manufacturer’s marked level or about 1 inch below the overflow tube top. If it’s low, adjust the fill valve so the tank fills higher.
- Also check the flapper and chain: ensure the flapper lifts fully and the chain isn’t snagged or too tight.
3. Inspect rim jets and siphon jet for mineral buildup
- Look under the bowl rim for small holes (rim jets) and near the trap for the siphon jet. White or crusty deposits reduce flow.
- Use a small toilet brush, an old toothbrush, or a wooden pick to dislodge loose mineral scale.
4. Try a vinegar soak and brushing
- Pour a cup or two of white vinegar into the bowl and let it sit for several hours or overnight. Vinegar helps dissolve mineral buildup safely.
- After soaking, scrub the rim jets and siphon jet with a brush to clear loosened deposits. Repeat if needed.
5. Clear partial clogs with a plunger or auger
- If cleaning jets and adjusting tank level don’t restore full evacuation, use a flange plunger and make several firm plunges to break a partial clog.
- If plunging doesn’t work, a toilet auger (closet auger) can reach further into the trapway. Follow the tool instructions and avoid forcing hard on fittings.
6. Test again and monitor
- After cleaning and any mechanical clearing, run a few controlled flushes to confirm a strong siphon and complete evacuation.
- If the problem returns intermittently, keep note of when it happens and any recent changes to plumbing or water supply.
What Not to Do
- Don’t keep flushing repeatedly to force solids through. Repeated flushes can cause an overflow and water damage.
- Don’t ignore the problem; if evacuation fails after reasonable DIY checks, a plumber is appropriate.
When to Call a Professional
- If plunging and a closet auger don’t clear the issue, possible deeper sewer line blockage or a serious trapway problem needs a plumber.
- If the tank fills and drains unusually, or parts in the tank are broken or hard to access, call a professional to avoid causing more damage.
- If you notice sewage odors, multiple fixtures backing up, or repeated clogs, this suggests a main line problem that a plumber should inspect.
Safety Notes
- Turn off the water supply at the shutoff valve before taking tank parts apart.
- Wear gloves and eye protection when cleaning or handling deposits and when using mechanical tools.
- Avoid mixing chemical drain cleaners with vinegar or other cleaners — chemical reactions can be dangerous. Prefer mechanical clearing and vinegar for mineral scale.
- If you suspect a sewer line issue or are uncomfortable with any step, stop and call a licensed plumber.
Common Homeowner Questions
- Why did this start suddenly? A sudden change can come from mineral buildup reaching a tipping point, a change in tank level, a partial clog, or recent plumbing work.
- Will vinegar damage my toilet? No. White vinegar is safe for porcelain and effective on mineral deposits when used in reasonable amounts and not mixed with other chemicals.
- How long should cleaning take before I call a plumber? After adjusting tank level, cleaning jets, and attempting a plunger/auger, if the toilet still won’t evacuate properly on two attempts, contact a plumber.
For more related articles, see the nan hub.