Broken Toilet? Signs You Need Toilet Repair & Who to Call

Broken Toilet? Signs You Need Toilet Repair & Who to Call

A malfunctioning toilet can go from annoying to disastrous fast. Whether it’s constantly running, won’t flush, or has a mysterious leak, ignoring the issue can lead to wasted water, property damage, and even plumbing system failure.

At The Mink Plumbing, we’ve helped homeowners with toilet repairs for over 60 years. In this post, our Tyler, TX toilet repair and installation experts break down the signs your toilet needs repair, what to do when it breaks, and why DIY toilet fixes often cause more harm than good.

4 Signs Your Toilet Needs Professional Repair

Not all toilet problems are dramatic — some start small and get worse over time. Here are four signs it’s time to call The Mink Plumbing:

1. The Toilet Keeps Running

A toilet that won’t stop running isn’t just annoying — it’s also wasting water and driving up your utility bill. The cause could be a worn-out flapper, a faulty fill valve, or a misaligned float. Whatever the issue, our plumbers will quickly pinpoint the cause and stop the flow for good.

2. Cracks in the Bowl or Tank

Notice a crack in the toilet tank or bowl? Even a small hairline crack can lead to leaks, water damage, and potential mold growth. Cracks aren’t always visible but can still cause performance issues. If you see water pooling around the base, call us right away.

3. Flushing Problems

If your toilet won’t flush — or flushes weakly — there may be a problem with the flushing mechanism, the chain, the tank water level, or even a deeper plumbing issue. Don’t risk making it worse with DIY tinkering. Let our experts repair it quickly and correctly.

4. Loose or Stuck Handle

If your toilet handle feels too tight, too loose, or won’t return to position, it may not activate the flushing system properly. While this might seem minor, it can point to deeper wear in the flushing assembly — something we can replace or fix on the spot.

What To Do If Your Toilet Is Broken

If your toilet suddenly stops working, here are four smart steps to take before calling in the professionals:

1. Assess the Problem

Is the issue a basic clog or something more serious? Try to identify whether the problem lies with the toilet itself or your home’s plumbing system. This helps us respond with the right tools and solutions.

2. Check for Leaks

Water around the base of your toilet could mean a worn-out wax ring, a cracked tank, or a loose connection. Make note of where the leak appears — this info can help our plumbers act fast.

3. Turn Off the Water Supply

If your toilet is overflowing or constantly running, locate the shut-off valve (usually behind the toilet) and turn it clockwise to stop the water. This prevents further water damage until we arrive.

4. Call a Trusted Plumber in Tyler

When in doubt, call The Mink Plumbing. We’ll assess your toilet, explain the issue clearly, and make the necessary repairs or replacements — without upselling or cutting corners.

Why DIY Toilet Repairs Often Go Wrong

Toilet repairs seem easy — until they’re not. Here are four common mistakes homeowners make when trying to fix their own toilets:

Using Too Much Force

Trying to force a clog through with excessive plunging or pressure can crack porcelain or damage internal parts. That can turn a $100 fix into a full replacement.

Lacking the Right Tools

From flange bolts to flapper valves, toilet repairs require specific tools. Without them, you risk doing more harm than good — or ending up knee-deep in a mess.

Forgetting to Shut Off the Water

One of the biggest rookie mistakes is attempting a repair with the water still running. That can lead to overflow, water damage, and an even bigger mess than you started with.

Not Knowing the Plumbing System

What looks like a simple toilet issue might be a symptom of a larger problem in your drain or sewer line. Our licensed plumbers know how to spot red flags early and avoid expensive future repairs.

Call The Mink Plumbing — Tyler’s Toilet Repair Experts

Whether it’s a small fix or a total replacement, The Mink Plumbing has the tools, experience, and knowledge to get your toilet back in working order fast. We’re proud to be Tyler’s trusted plumbing company for everything from routine toilet issues to full bathroom remodels.

• Licensed & insured plumbers
• 60+ years of experience in East Texas
• Honest pricing and upfront advice
• Emergency service available

Schedule your toilet repair in Tyler, TX today and let us take care of the dirty work — so you don’t have to!