Kohler Toilet Flushes 3 Times [Why + How To Fix]  

When a Kohler toilet flushes 3 times, many factors are at play, such as:

• Kohler toilet flapper problem
• Poor toilet design
• Kohler toilet water level is too high
• Clogged Flow Holes

To fix the problem, adjust the water level, clean the clogged flow holes, or replace the flapper. In order to prevent repeated flushing, ensure regular toilet maintenance and inspection.

From low water pressure to faulty flappers, we’ll look at some of the underlying causes of this problem. Whether you’re a plumber or a homeowner, here’s how to diagnose and fix a troublesome toilet.

Quick Solutions To Kohler Toilet That Flushes 3 Times:

This is a quick chart and how to fix multiple flushing Kohler toilets problems :

Problem	Reasons	Solutions
Kohler toilet flapper problem or lightweight flapper	> No tight seal with the lightweight flapper > Not enough weight to close the flapper > Poor quality > Flapper may be worn out or aging	> Adjust the flapper. > Replace the flapper
2. Poor design	> Inadequate flashing power > Clogged trapway. > Improper installation	> Choose a reputable brand > Look for a high-quality flashing mechanism > Check the trapway > Consider a dual toilet
3. Kohler toilet water level too high	> Improperly set fill valve > Malfunctioning fill valve	> Adjust the fill valve > Replace the fill valve
4. Clogged flow holes in kohler toilet	> Mineral buildup > Hard water > Neglecting cleaning	> Use a toilet bowl cleaner > Use a wire hanger
5. Kohler toilet loose handle	> Damaged handle > Loose mounting nut > Rusted parts	> Tighten the mountain nuts > Clean or replace rusted parts > Replace the handle
6. Clogged swere line	> Flushing inappropriate items > Tree root instructionsAging pipe	> Clogged sewer line

Kohler Toilet Flushes 3 Times [Why + How To Fix]

If your Kohler toilet flushes three times, you might be wondering what the problem is and how to fix it. It may seem like a minor inconvenience. But multiple flushing of the toilet can waste water and increase your utility bills.

Fortunately, we are here with the best solutions that can save you both time and money. Here are some things we need to consider! 

1. Kohler Toilet Flapper Problem Or Lightweight Flapper

A flapper is a rubber valve that controls the water from the toilet tank to the bowl during a flush. If the flapper is lightweight or worn out, it may not be able to fully close.

Thus, it causes water to leak from the tank into the bowl, which can result in flushing 3 times.

Reasons:

A lightweight flapper is a common issue that can affect the performance of your toilet. let’s check out some reasons:

i) No Tight Seal With Lightweight Flapper:

The main purpose of a flapper is to create a tight seal that keeps water inside the tank until the toilet is flushed. However, if the flapper is too lightweight, it may not create a tight seal. A continuous flow of water from the tank into the bowl can result from this leak.

ii) Not Enough Weight To Close Flapper:

Toilet flappers should close quickly when pressed to prevent water from continuing to flow. However, if the flapper is not heavy enough, it may not close properly. 

Even after the waste material and water have drained away, water continues to flow into the bowl. If there isn’t enough water in the bowl, the toilet will flush again.

iii) Poor Quality:

If the flapper in your toilet is made of low-quality rubber or plastic, it may not be heavy enough to form a proper seal and prevent leaks.

iv) Flapper May Be Worn Out Or Aging:

Flappers can wear out or become damaged over time, losing their sealing ability. Water can leak into the bowl from the tank, causing the toilet to continuously drip.

Solutions:

If you’re experiencing issues with your Kohler toilet flapper, there are a few possible solutions that you can try.

i) Adjust The Flapper To Ensure A Tight Seal:

To adjust a Kohler toilet flapper seal, follow these steps:

Step-1: Locate the water shut-off valve behind the toilet and turn it clockwise to shut off the water supply.

Step-2: Lift the toilet tank lid and locate the flapper valve. Gently lift the flapper valve off the flush valve and remove it.

Step-3: Check the chain that connects the flapper valve to the toilet handle. If it’s too long, the flapper won’t seal properly, and if it’s too short, the toilet won’t flush properly. Adjust the chain length by sliding the chain clip up or down to achieve the right length.

Step- 4: Look for any debris or buildup on the flapper or the flush valve seat. Clean the flapper and flush valve seat with a soft cloth or sponge.

Step-5: Replace the flapper valve and turn the water supply back on. Flush the toilet and observe the flapper valve as it falls back into place. If it doesn’t create a tight seal, adjust the chain length again and test the seal again.

Step- 6: If the flapper is damaged or worn out, replace it with a new one. Make sure to choose a Kohler-approved flapper that matches your toilet model. Install the new flapper following the manufacturer’s instructions.

ii) Replace The Flapper With A Heavier Model:

Another solution is to replace the lightweight flapper with a heavier model. When selecting a replacement flapper, look for one that is compatible with your toilet model. It has the appropriate weight and size to ensure a tight seal.

iii) Make Sure Your Flapper Matches The Weight And Size Of Your Toilet:

When adjusting or replacing the flapper fails, replacing it may be necessary to ensure a tight seal. If you are uncertain about which flapper to use, consult the manufacturer.

2. Poor Toilet Design

Poor toilet design can also contribute to frequent flushing problems. In some toilet bowls, an angle or shape prevents waste and water from draining easily.

This can cause blockages and make Kohler toilet flush multiple times.

Reasons:

Poorly designed low-flow toilets might require multiple flushes to completely empty. It might not save water as intended. Here are a few possible reasons:

i) Inadequate Flushing Power:

Some low-flow toilets have weak flushing mechanisms that don’t force enough water to clear the bowl. This can result in waste getting stuck and requiring multiple flushes to fully remove.

ii) Clogged Trapway:

The tramway is the part of the toilet that connects the bowl to the drainpipe. If it becomes clogged with waste or other debris, the toilet will not flush properly. You may need to flush 3 times to clear the bowl.

iii) Improper Installation:

If the toilet was not installed correctly, it may not be able to create the proper suction to flush waste down the drain. This can also result in the need for multiple flushes.

Solutions:

If your low-flow toilet is requiring multiple flushes, the only real solution is to replace it. Here are some things to look for when choosing a new toilet:

i) Choose A Reputable Brand:

Stick with well-known brands that have a track record of producing high-quality, reliable toilets.

ii) Look For A High-quality Flushing Mechanism:

Make sure the toilet you choose has a powerful flushing mechanism that can clear the bowl in one flush.

iii) Check The Trapway:

To prevent clogs, choose a toilet with a large, fully glazed trapway.

iv) Consider A Dual-flush Toilet:

You can choose between a low-flow or high-flow flush with dual-flush toilets. This can save even more water than a standard low-flow toilet.

3. Kohler Toilet Water Level Too High

When the toilet tank has too much water, it can cause the toilet to flush thrice, which wastes water and increases your water bills.

Reasons:

Listed below are some reasons why Kohler toilet bowls have too much water:

i) Improperly Set Fill Valve:

A level fill valve controls how much water goes down the opening and into the toilet bowl. If the fill valve is not set at the correct level, too much water may enter the tank.

ii) Malfunctioning Fill Valve:

If the fill valve is not working correctly, it may allow too much water into the tank.

Solutions:

You can try a few possible solutions if you notice that the water level in your Kohler toilet is too high.

i) Adjust The Fill Valve:

Locate the float arm, which lifts the float that indicates the present water level to the top of the water. Once it reaches a specific level, water stops coming into the tank. 

Then, Use a screwdriver to adjust the screw located at the top of the fill valve, allowing the float arm to drop just a bit, and then water fills to a lower level.

In some cases, the toilet fill valve will have a float cup. You should be able to lower the water level within the tank by sliding down a small clip.

ii) Replace The Fill Valve:

If the fill valve is malfunctioning or cannot be adjusted, it may need to be replaced. Turn off the water supply to the toilet, unscrew the old fill valve, and replace the fill valve.

4. Clogged Flow Holes In Kohler Toilet

Clogged flow holes in a toilet can cause several problems, including multiple flushes, slow draining, and water leaks.

The flow holes are a series of small holes in the rim of the toilet bowl, just under the rim.

Reasons:

In order for flow holes to become clogged, there are a number of reasons for this.

i) Mineral Buildup:

Minerals such as calcium and lime can accumulate over time on the surface of toilet bowl holes. As a result, water cannot pass through them due to their restriction.

ii) Hard Water:

If your area has hard water, mineral deposits can build up quickly, leading to clogged flow holes.

iii) Neglecting Cleaning:

If you don’t clean your toilet regularly, mineral buildup can accumulate and cause clogs.

Solutions:

Fortunately, there are some possible solutions you must try, to solve these issues:

i) Use A Toilet Bowl Cleaner:

There are many toilet bowl cleaners available that are specifically designed to remove mineral buildup. Follow the instructions on the product label to clean the toilet bowl thoroughly.

ii) Vinegar And Baking Soda:

 You can also use natural ingredients like vinegar and baking soda to clean the flow holes. Pour some vinegar down the overflow tube and let it sit for a few minutes. 

Then, sprinkle baking soda around the rim of the bowl and scrub with a toilet brush.

iii) Use A wire Hanger:

Straighten a wire hanger. Then use it to poke through the flow holes to remove any mineral buildup.

5. Kohler Toilet Loose Handle

If a Kohler toilet handle becomes loose, it can lead to a number of problems with the functioning of the toilet. The handle is a crucial part of the flushing mechanism.

If it’s not working properly, it can cause the toilet to not flush properly or not flush at all.

Reasons:

There are several reasons for the problem of a loose Kohler toilet handle, including:

i) Worn Out Or Damaged Handle:

When the handle wears out or becomes damaged, it becomes loose and stops working. This can happen due to frequent use or due to the handle being pulled or pushed too hard.

ii) Loose Mounting Nut:

The mounting nut that holds the handle in place can become loose over time. It causes the handle to become wobbly and loose.

iii) Corroded Or Rusted Parts:

If the handle or other parts of the flushing mechanism become corroded or rusted. It can cause the handle to become loose and not work properly.

Solutions:

To fix the problem there are several solutions you can try. Let’s check out:

i) Tighten The Mounting Nut:

If the mounting nut is loose, it can be tightened using a wrench or pliers to hold the handle in place. Make sure not to overtighten the nut. Because this can cause damage to the handle or other parts of the flushing mechanism.

ii) Clean Or Replace Corroded Or Rusted Parts:

If the handle or other parts of the flushing mechanism are corroded or rusted, they may need to be cleaned or replaced with new parts. This will ensure that the handle works properly. Also, it doesn’t become loose again in the future.

iii) Replace The Handle:

If the handle is worn out or damaged, it may need to be replaced with a new one. Make sure to choose a handle that is compatible with your Kohler toilet model

How To Fix A Kohler Toilet Loose Handle

If you have a loose handle on your Kohler toilet, here are the steps you need to follow:

Step- 1: Locate the water supply valve, which is normally behind the toilet. Turn it clockwise to shut off the water supply to the toilet.

Step- 2: Lift the lid off the toilet tank and set it aside in a safe place.

Step- 3: Locate the mounting nut on the inside of the toilet tank that secures the handle to the tank. Use an adjustable wrench to tighten the nut by turning it clockwise until it is snug. Do not overtighten the nut as this can crack the tank.

Step- 4: Test the handle to make sure it is now securely attached to the tank and does not move or wobble.

Step- 5: Turn the water supply valve counterclockwise to turn the water supply back on to the toilet.

Step- 6: Flush the toilet to make sure the handle is now functioning properly and the toilet flushes as it should.

Note: If tightening the mounting nut does not fix the problem or the nut is already tight, the handle may need to be replaced.

In this case, you can purchase a replacement handle from a hardware store or Kohler dealer and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install it.

6. Clogged Sewer Line

A partially clogged sewer line can cause a Kohler toilet to flush incompletely, requiring multiple flushes.

The toilet cannot flush with enough force to completely empty the bowl due to a blockage in the sewer line.

Reasons:

It is important to realize that there is a wide range of reasons why sewer lines become clogged. Such as:

i) Flushing Inappropriate Items:

Flushing items such as wipes, sanitary products, and excessive toilet paper can cause clogs in the sewer line.

ii) Tree Root Intrusion:

Tree roots can grow into the sewer line, causing blockages and clogs.

iii) Aging Pipes:

Over time, pipes can become worn and break, leading to debris buildup and blockages.

Solutions:

If you notice that your toilet has any of the above issues, there are a number of solutions you can use 

i) Use A Plunger:

If the clog is minor, using a plunger may be enough to clear the blockage. Use a toilet plunger and push down and pull up on the plunger vigorously. This creates suction, which helps dislodge the clog.

ii) Plumbing Snake:

If the plunger is not working, try a plumbing snake. A plumbing snake is a tool that is used to break up and remove clogs from the sewer line.

 Insert the snake into the toilet bowl and turn the handle to feed the snake into the sewer line. Once the snake has reached the blockage, turn the handle to break up the clog and remove it.

iii) Professional Plumber:

If the clog is stubborn or you are unable to clear it yourself, it may be time to call a licensed plumber. Professional plumbers can remove stubborn clogs and repair damaged sewer lines. 

In severe cases, they may recommend replacing the sewer line or using tools like hydro-jets to clear the clog.

7. Kohler Toilet Replacement

Trying all methods and getting no results? Then, go for a replacement. It may seem inconvenient and expensive to replace a poorly designed low-flow toilet, but you can save water and money.

With a high-quality, well-designed toilet, there will be fewer clogs, less flushing, and less energy used. 

To replace a Kohler toilet, follow these steps:

Step- 1: The first step is to shut off the water supply to the toilet. You can do this by turning the valve located behind the toilet clockwise until it stops.

Step- 2: Next, you need to remove the old toilet. Connect the water supply line to the tank, then unscrew the bolts holding the toilet to the floor. Lift the toilet off the flange and set it aside.

Step- 3: Before installing the new toilet, make sure the flange is clean and in good condition. If it’s damaged, replace it. Then, assemble the new toilet according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Step- 4: Place the new toilet on the flange and align the bolt holes. Secure the toilet to the flange by tightening the bolts with a wrench. Don’t overtighten, or you could crack the toilet.

Step- 5: Reconnect the water supply line to the tank and turn the water supply valve back on. Finally, flush the toilet a few times to make sure it’s working properly.

FAQs:

Conclusion:

There is a problem with Kohler toilets flushing 3 times, which is annoying and wasteful. The problem, however, can be resolved easily by implementing several solutions. Moreover, cleaning and maintenance can prevent this problem.

In fact, our other guide will help to solve Kohler toilet flushes on its own problem. As a result, they will save time, money, and water in the long run. In case of any further questions, please leave a comment below. We will do our best to provide you with the best solution.