We are having to flush our toilet twice in order for it to flush. The first flush just puts more water into the bowl. The flush actually goes down. What could the problem be?


I meant to say that the second flush actually goes down.

We are having to flush our toilet twice in order for it to flush. The first flush just puts more water into the bowl. The flush actually goes down. What could the problem be?

Have you checked the tank adjustments?(see image)
Check the tank water level, it should be at the mark in the tank or 3/8 to 1/2" below the top of the over flow tube. The linkage between the flapper and the flush lever should have 1/4" play when the tank is filled. Also, check the small tube coming out of the top of the ballcock and make sure it's connect to and draining into the white overflow tube.
Good luck and let me know if that works for you. Tom

Speedball 1, there is not a ballcock. There is a white cylindrical thing. The chain and tubing all seem to be in order. This is actually the first time that I have opened the back of the tank. We bought the 146 yo house in February and I thought it was a bowl/clog/septic issue so I had never looked in the tank. It was quite disgusting! Anyway the flushing from the tank seems right.

Can you post a picture of what's in your tank? Regards, tom

Thanks, Tom. I am trying to send picture.
http://i171.photobucket.com/albums/u313/Gamegoofs2/001-1.jpg

Is there a brand name anywhere around? I try to keep up with the new stuff but sometimes I slip up. I Can't find your ballcock on the internet. Help me out here!
Regards, tom

Tom, I believe it says "Korky." Does that help? It also says something about anti-siphon.

Tom, I believe it says "Korky." Does that help? It also says something about anti-siphon. I have it now. Your ballcock's the same type as a Fluidmaster. You still haven't told me if the water level in t6he tank's 1/2" under the overflow tube or how it acts when you flush it the first time. Does it simply swirl around and then drain down without taking solids along.
Back to you and thanks for the information. Tom

Thanks so much, Tom. The water is 1/2" below the overflow. The water in the bowl comes up, but pretty much nothing goes anywhere. Last night I tried holding the handle down until everything moved and went down the drain. This seemed to work. So, now I have instructed my family to hold the handle down until everything is gone. It seems to use a lot of water this way, but at least it is ging down and we're not having to stand around waiting for the tank to fill back up to give it the second flush.

A repalvement korky isn't expensive but I'd try rodding the toilet first with a toilet auger. Korky Brand Toilet Tank Repair Products (http://korky.com/flushvalves.html)