Ask anyone to describe a toilet problem and you will usually hear that it acts up sometimes. Sometimes after a shower, sometimes at night, sometimes only when guests are over. Those details are exactly what separates a worn flapper from a partial clog, or a toilet trap problem from a sewer lateral that is starting to close up.
Keep this log on your phone or print it and leave it in the bathroom. Write down each event as it happens rather than trying to remember later.
Daily log
| Date and time | Which toilet | What happened | Other drains affected? | What you did |
|---|---|---|---|---|
What to note each time
- Whether the tank refilled by itself, hissed or ran on.
- Whether the bowl rose higher than usual or drained slowly.
- Any water on the floor, and where you first saw it.
- Whether a tub, shower or sink gurgled or rose at the same moment.
- Whether the washing machine or dishwasher was running.
- Anything unusual flushed, including wipes or a child's toy.
- Any smell of sewage near the toilet or floor drains.
Reading the patterns
| Pattern in your log | Often points to |
|---|---|
| Refills every so often with nobody using it | Water leaking past the flapper |
| Only one toilet clogs; other drains are fine | The toilet trap or the toilet's flush |
| Clogs or gurgling when laundry drains | A partial blockage in the main drain |
| Water at the base only after flushing | A failed seal under the toilet |
| Damp floor on humid days only | Condensation on the tank |
| Problems getting more frequent | A worsening blockage or root growth in the lateral |
Bring these questions with the log
- Does this pattern point to the toilet or the drain line?
- What would you check first, based on these notes?
- Is there anything else I should record before you come?
Common questions
How long should I keep the log?
A week or two is usually enough to show a pattern. Stop sooner if the problem becomes urgent.
What if the problem becomes urgent while I am logging?
Stop logging and act: close the shutoff valve, keep people away from any sewage, and call a licensed plumber.
Should I log more than one toilet?
Yes. Whether one toilet or several are affected is one of the most useful clues.
General information for Fullerton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.