My toilet does not flush properly, it needs to be flushed 2 or 3 times. I've changed all the parts in the tank but still get the same results, what do I do?

I have one that most repair plumbers miss.. Look down at the bottom of the bowl. If there is a small hole, then that is a jet that starts the syphon action. If it's clogged the water will just swirl around and slowly go down leaving solids behind. Take your finger,(UGH! ) and run it around the inside of the opening. Over the years minerals build up and cut down on the syphon (flush) action. If it is rough or you feel build up, take a table knife and put a bend in it to get around the curve in the bowl and chip and scrap it clear. Next take a coathanger and clear out the holes around the rim. They start the swirling action. And last, check the water level in the tank. It should be 1/2" below the top of the over flow tube. And speaking of the overflow tube, Make sure the small 1/8" tube from the ballcock to the white overflow tube is connected so it discharges in it and that it's flowing when the ballcock fills. This is what raises the water level in the bowl. For a good solid flush they all have to work together. Hope this helps . Tom

Hi Tom,

Sorry your suggestions didn't help. Nothing came out of the toilet holes. I also have 2 leaks, I tried loosening the screws or tightening them:

1. From the screw that attaches the tank to the toilet, and

2. only sometimes, from the overflow tube hole under the tank. (tube on the left side of the tank).

Obviously should have used a professional, it just seemed so simple and didn't want to spend too much money. At Home Depot, they told me that changing the parts would solve my bad flushing problem and that it was easy.

I guess they were taking advantage of a woman. I am so disappointed and don't know what to do. Janet

Don't fret Jamet, We'll get it yet!
You said,"Nothing came out of the toilet holes." But did you check the jet to make sure there wasn't mineral build up in it? I wasn't looking for anything to come out. I need to be sure the jet's clear.
Let's fix the leaks first.
1. From the screw that attaches the tank to the toilet,
Those are called "tank bolts" And must be tightened from inside the tank while holding the nut under it friom turning. Tighten them together so the tank's level. Do not overtighten. Leave a little play in the tank so it can rock back and forth about 1/4".
2. only sometimes, from the overflow tube hole under the tank. (tube on the left side of the tank).
This is not the overflow tube. It supplies water to the tank.
There are two nuts under the tank. The flat one next to the bottom of the tank and the one under it that you will snug up to stop your leak.
If anything happens you can always shut the water off to the toilet and the shut off located under the tank. When you get the leaks bfixed click on back and we'll tackle your flush probem. Hang in there, Tom