What to Do When Your Toilet Drains Slowly and Doesn’t Completely Empty

If your toilet is flushing slowly and failing to fully empty solids, it can be a frustrating issue. Although the problem may seem serious, it often has manageable solutions. Here’s a comprehensive guide to understanding and resolving a slow-flushing toilet that doesn’t completely empty.

Understanding the Problem

A toilet that flushes slowly and doesn’t empty completely usually indicates a blockage or partial clog. Unlike a fully clogged toilet that won’t flush at all, a slow-flushing toilet can still handle liquid waste but struggles with solids. This issue might be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Partial Blockages: Objects or debris partially blocking the drainpipe.
• Clogged Vent Pipes: Airflow issues in the plumbing venting system.
• Low Water Level: Insufficient water in the tank to fully flush the toilet.
• Worn Flapper: A malfunctioning flapper valve that doesn’t allow enough water to flow into the bowl.

Full instructions in the next page