CSLB Class B General Contractor's License Practice Exam

If a customer reports a newly installed close coupled toilet is not flushing properly despite clear lines and functional tank mechanics, what is the likely issue?

1. Low water pressure

2. Crack in the tank

3. Defect in bowl

4. Improper installation

The correct answer is: Defect in bowl

The correct answer identifies a defect in the bowl as the likely issue when a newly installed close coupled toilet is not flushing properly. This situation can arise if there are cracks or other flaws in the toilet bowl that prevent it from maintaining the necessary water seal or flow dynamics for effective flushing. Such defects can disrupt the flow of water when the toilet is flushed, thus impairing its performance. In addition to structural flaws, other issues related to the bowl, such as design or manufacturing defects, can also lead to inefficient flushing. If the bowl doesn't provide adequate suction or has an obstruction, it may fail to remove waste effectively, regardless of the performance of other components. Low water pressure could hinder the flushing effectiveness, but if the water lines are clear and the tank's mechanics are functioning well, it is less likely to be the root cause in this case. A crack in the tank itself would typically lead to leaks rather than flushing issues. Lastly, improper installation might create problems, but since the system is stated to be newly installed, the focus on the bowl's condition is more pertinent. Understanding these aspects can help diagnose and rectify issues related to toilet performance effectively.