Q: I have three toilets in my ranch house. One of the three toilet bowls always has rust stains, but the other two never do. I know how to remove the stains, but how can I prevent them?
— Ed Jordanich
South Bend, Ind.
A: Wadsworth plumber Cathy Geary said a part in the toilet tank may have rusted, perhaps the chain that lifts the flapper. Or a bit of rust could be lodged in one or more of the tiny holes around the rim through which water enters the bowl. Poke around in those holes with a piece of wire to unclog them, she suggested.
It’s also possible that the shutoff valve is bad or a piece of rust is stuck in it, Geary said. Replacing it may require hiring a plumber.
Have a question about home maintenance, decorating or gardening? Akron Beacon Journal home writer Mary Beth Breckenridge will find answers for the queries that are chosen to appear in the paper. To submit a question, call her at 330-996-3756, or send email to mbrecken@thebeaconjournal.com. Be sure to include your full name, your town and your phone number or email address.
