What To Do if a Commercial Toilet Will Not Stop Flushing

7/22/2022 (Permalink)

How to Stop a Commercial Toilet from Flushing

You enter a bathroom in your building and find a toilet that is flushing continuously. What do you do? There are several steps you can take to address toilet overflow. Potential solutions will depend on the type of flushometer your toilet uses: automatic or manual.
Follow these tips to diagnose the problem and find a solution.

1. For Automatic Flushometers, Perform a Simple Test
First, shut off the water by using a flathead screwdriver on the slot located somewhere on the flushometer. Depending on the model, you may need to take the cover off to find the slot.
Next, find the button that performs a manual flush and hold it down. If you hear two clicks, the diaphragm kit is malfunctioning and you need to replace it or clean it. You can find the diaphragm kit by removing the top of the flushometer.
If there is no issue with the diaphragm, you can check for a loose solenoid or contact a plumber.

2. For Manual Flushometers, Clean the Gasket
First, turn the water off with a screwdriver. Next, use a wrench to remove the top of the flushometer. Remove the gasket and clean it thoroughly, including the weep hole. If this does not fix the toilet, then you will need to replace the gasket.

3. Call a Professional if There is a Toilet Flood
A toilet overflow can cause serious damage to a commercial building if not dealt with properly. Walls and floors may deteriorate, and mold can start to grow within 48 hours. If your building in Oak Park, CA, suffers extensive water damage, be sure to contact a water restoration company that can help you remove all of the water and restore damaged property.
Following these tips will help you stop a toilet and address toilet overflow problems that stem from continuous flushing.