🚽 Troubleshooting Toilet Problems (Clogging, Overflow, and Water Issues) – Saki Corporation

Toilet issues such as clogging, overflowing, or weak flushing are common and usually simple to resolve.
This guide explains the causes, safe troubleshooting methods, and when to contact Saki Corporation for assistance.

⚠️ 1. Before You Start

Please remember:

Do not use excessive force or insert foreign tools into the toilet.
Use only Japanese-type toilet paper, designed to dissolve in water.
Do not flush wipes, paper towels, sanitary products, or baby wipes — these cause clogging.

💡 Okinawa plumbing systems are more sensitive than U.S. systems — using foreign paper brands can easily block drains.

💩 2. Common Causes of Toilet Clogging

Cause	Description
Too much toilet paper	Using large amounts at once can block drainage
Foreign objects	Dropped items such as toothbrushes, toys, or wipes
Non-dissolving paper	Foreign/“quilted” U.S. brands don’t break down easily
Poor flushing	Weak water pressure or closed water valve

⚠️ If the water rises too high during flushing, stop immediately — do not flush again until unclogged.

🪠 3. First Step: Try to Unclog the Toilet

If water is slow to drain or rising, follow these steps:

🔹 Step 1: Wait a Few Minutes

Sometimes water slowly drains by itself.
Do not continue flushing — this may cause overflow.

🔹 Step 2: Use a Toilet Plunger (スッポン / suppon)

Place the plunger head fully into the toilet outlet hole.
Push down gently and pull up firmly, keeping water covering the rubber part.
Repeat several times until water drains normally.
Flush once to test if the clog is cleared.

How to Unclog a Toilet With a Plunger — *Correct plunger position and action (source: The Spruce)*

💡 If you don’t have a plunger, you can purchase one at local stores like Makeman, Nitori, or Don Quijote.

🔹 Step 3: Use a Toilet Drain Cleaner

If plunging doesn’t help, try a toilet-safe liquid cleaner (トイレのつまり用パイプクリーナー).

Pour the recommended amount directly into the bowl.
Wait 30–60 minutes.
Flush with plenty of water.

Do not mix cleaners or use hot water — it may damage the toilet or cause fumes.

🌊 4. If Water Overflows

Turn off the toilet water supply valve (usually a small silver knob behind or beside the toilet).
- Turn it clockwise to stop the water flow.
Use towels to absorb excess water around the toilet.
If water keeps coming even with valve off → contact Saki Corporation immediately.
☎️ 098-989-5574

🚰 5. If Water Is Not Flushing or Refilling

If the flush handle or bidet button doesn’t work:

Possible Cause	How to Check / Fix
Water supply valve closed	Open the valve (turn counterclockwise) behind the toilet
Flush lever or button broken	Check if the lever feels loose or disconnected
Toilet remote (panel) not working	Replace batteries (usually AA) or check power outlet
Water pressure low	Check other taps — if weak everywhere, see Troubleshooting Water Supply

💡 For electronic toilets (ウォシュレット), make sure the power plug is connected properly.

💧 6. If Water Keeps Leaking into the Bowl

If you hear continuous water running even when not flushing:

Cause	Description	Action
Worn rubber valve inside tank	The plastic seal or float doesn’t close properly	Open tank cover and check for loose or worn parts
Corroded float valve (ボールタップ)	Common in older models, prevents tank from refilling correctly	Needs replacement by technician
High water level	Float adjustment screw misaligned	Turn screw slightly to lower water level

⚠️ If you are unsure or the issue persists, contact Saki Corporation.
Continuous water flow increases water bills and should be fixed promptly.

Maintenance Request Form

🧽 7. Preventing Future Toilet Problems

Do	Don’t
Use Japanese toilet paper only	Flush wet wipes, sanitary products, or napkins
Flush twice if needed for large waste	Force flush during partial blockage
Keep plunger handy	Use hot water or random tools
Clean weekly using toilet cleaner	Use harsh chemicals or bleach mixtures
Check behind toilet for leaks	Ignore slow-filling tanks or hissing sounds

💡 Once a month, pour a cup of vinegar or mild cleaner into the bowl to prevent buildup.

🧾 8. Tenant Responsibility

Issue	Responsibility	Notes
Minor clog caused by toilet paper	Tenant	Use plunger or cleaner
Overflow due to excessive paper or object	Tenant	Clean and dry area safely
Damaged flush lever, water valve, or persistent leak	Management	Contact Saki Corp
Service request for bulb or plunger replacement	Tenant	Purchase at local store
Requesting maintenance team to clear clog	Tenant (fee applies)	Labor + dispatch fee charged

💡 Tenants are responsible for basic unclogging and safe maintenance of toilets.
If you prefer Saki Corporation to handle it, please note there will be a service fee for dispatch.

📞 9. When to Contact Saki Corporation

Please contact maintenance if:

The toilet remains clogged after using a plunger or cleaner
The water keeps leaking inside the tank or bowl
The flush lever or remote is broken
The water supply valve or tank parts are corroded
You notice leaks from behind or under the toilet

Submit your maintenance request here.