If you’ve noticed a hissing noise coming from your toilet lately, you probably already know you have a plumbing problem on your hands. Don’t pick up the phone to call a professional just yet, though – with luck, you may be able to fix this problem yourself. Follow our guide to figure out what’s causing your hissing problem, what you can do about it, and when it’s time to call in your local plumbing service.

What the Hissing Noise Means

When a toilet develops a hissing sound, it usually has something to do with the inlet water valve. This valve controls how much water gets into your toilet tank every time you flush. If it becomes clogged or damaged, it may be difficult for water to pass through it as it usually would. Pressure builds up in the valve, and eventually the air inside it produces that characteristic hissing noise.

How to Fix It Yourself

A hissing toilet can usually be fixed without professional help. There are two approaches you can try.

1. Clean the inlet valve.
Inlet valves often develop build-up that makes it difficult for water to flow freely into the toilet tank. To fix this:

• Turn off the toilet’s water supply by turning the valve near the intake hose to the indicated position.
• Flush the toilet to drain the water from it, then open the tank. You should see the inlet valve just above where the supply hose meets the bottom of the tank.
• Remove the cap by twisting it off or using a screwdriver. Remove the seal underneath the cap with your fingernail or a plastic screwdriver and rinse it.
• Place a plastic cup over the top of the exposed area, then turn the water back on. Let it run for a few seconds and flush out any dirt or debris that may be stuck inside it. Once this is done, reassemble the inlet valve and the tank.

2. Replace the inlet valve seal.
If the valve’s seal is the problem, you can easily replace it on your own. Take the broken seal out of the valve cap. If you’re able to contact your toilet’s manufacturer, you can order a new seal directly from them. If not, bring the broken seal with you to your local hardware store. You should be able to find a match there.

When to Call a Professional

If neither of these solutions work or the problem looks too daunting for you to solve on your own, you may need to replace the entire valve. This is a complicated task that should be done by a licensed plumber. Call your plumbing company and explain the situation. In most cases, they will be able to fix your problem within a few days.

Get Help from the Best Plumbing Professionals

Plumbing problems are a fact of life, but having experts in your corner can make them much less stressful. At Syles Mechanical, we’re always available to help with any plumbing problems that are troubling you. Contact us today at 519-979-2090 for expert advice and professional plumbing repair and installation services you can trust.