Did you notice the last time you used your toilet that the water flow from the tank to the bowl moved very slowly, resulting in a weak flushing toilet? This can be very annoying. It can even lead you to want to change your toilet. However, the problem might be as simple as a clogged siphon jet. Or even more likely, your toilet may have multiple siphon jets that are plugged.
The siphon jets for toilets are tiny holes under the bowl rim. They allow water to drain from the tank into the bowl. This allows the water to flush out waste and clean the inside. Siphon jets may become clogged over time, particularly if they are not cleaned regularly.
Because the siphon jets are dark, hidden and often dirty, it can provide a favorable environment for bacteria or fungi growth. These factors can result in a poor or deficient flush.
If you desire a powerful flush, which will wash away all the waste and leave your bowl clean, it is essential to regularly clean the siphon jets.
Below are 9 easy steps to follow to clean your siphon jets. Later on, we will provide you with tips on how to keep your toilet siphon jets from clogging in the future.
Vinegar to clean toilet siphon jets
White vinegar is a quick, inexpensive way to clean a clogged siphon jet. Vinegar can soak up and break down stains. This works well for mild stains like mold or bacteria.
Materials Required
- Mirror
- White vinegar
- Cleaning detergent or disinfectant
- Scrub Brush
- Spray bottle
- Funnel
9 Steps to clean clogged siphon jet
- Take a mirror and inspect the siphon jets to determine how dirty they are.
- Bring to a boil, one-and-a-half cups of vinegar. Allow it to cool.
- Remove the toilet tank and then use a funnel to pour 1 cup of vinegar into the overflow tube.
- For the remaining vinegar solution pour it into a spray bottle.
- Lift up the toilet seat and then apply vinegar to the underside of the rim. Pay particular attention to the siphon jets’ outside edges.
- Wait between 30 and 60 minutes.
- Use a brush to gently scrub under the rim.
- Flush the toilet
- Use the mirror to check the progress. If the small holes on the siphon jets are still clogged repeat the steps.
Note:
- You can substitute vinegar with a bleach solution, or any other acid solution such as lemon juice or citric.
- It may prove difficult to get rid of the dirt and sediments on the siphon jets holes if they have been there a long time. It may be necessary to scrub harder or use another cleaning product.
- Avoid using abrasive cleaners. These can cause damage to the porcelain in the toilet. Be gentle when scrubbing.
How to keep your toilet siphon jets clean
- Keep your toilet tank clean as most dirt and grime that can get into siphon jets is absorbed from the tank.
- Installing a water softener can reduce mineral content in hard water areas.
- Use your toilet regularly. Regular usage encourages you to flush, which then cleans your bowl.
- Every once in a while pour some white vinegar into your tank. Let it rest for a few minutes. This will help to remove and prevent any mineral buildup.
- To prevent the growth of bacteria or other microorganisms, add one teaspoon bleach to the overflow tube every so often.
