Have a problem with your toilet? Does it keep running after it’s been flushed? You’ve come to the right place!
Leaving your toilet running will result in two things: a decrease in flush power and an increase in your water bill. Not to mention all of that wasted water, and if you live on a well, that’s a big deal.
If you have a plumbing problem, we’re here to help with our expert plumbers to provide plumbing repairs of all kinds. But, if you’re handy and you have the right tools, fixing a running toilet can be quite easy! Keep reading to learn how to fix a running toilet!
How To Fix A Running Toilet
Most of the time, when a toilet is acting up, it can be solved by grabbing a plunger and getting to work. However, there may be more serious things at play. If you flush and the toilet keeps running, it’s safe to say that a plunger won’t help you.
Parts of a toilet that could be the cause of your toilet constantly running. Read on to learn how to fix it!
Finding The Source Of Your Running Toilet
The first thing you need to do is lift the lid of the toilet tank to see where the problem is. You may have to do a test flush to see what happens during and after you flush a toilet. Here are some common causes of a running or leaky toilet:
- Malfunctioning ball float that shuts the flapper valve.
- Improperly sized flush valve chain that attached to the handle’s lever.
- Problems with the toilet flapper valve, which closes off the opening between the toilet tank and the bowl.
Once you’ve found the source of the problem, you’ll need to shut off the water supply to your bathroom and empty the toilet tank by flushing and keeping your hand on the handle until it drains.
Adjusting A Valve Chain
Most of the time when a toilet is constantly running, it’s the valve or the chain that connects the valve to the handle. When you flush, the chain lifts the valve and opens the tube that flushes all the water down.
Sometimes, if a chain is too tight, the valve doesn’t shut all the way, leaving an opening for water to continue running through. If it’s too loose, it may become tilted and won’t fit over the opening in the right way.
Adjust the chain to fit the hole properly and keep testing it with the handle until you’ve found the “sweet spot” where the chain is tense, but not too tight. You can also take a piece of strong metal wire to attach the valve to the handle.
Fixing A Broken Toilet Flapper Valve
If the water has been shut off, and you’ve identified the problem as a broken toilet flapper valve. Now, if the flapper is cracked or damaged, it’s much easier, and often better just to replace it.
To replace the valve, start by taking out the old one. Unhook the chain and carefully pull the valve off the pegs that attach it to the overflow tube. You can find a replacement valve at your local hardware store, and they’re not overly expensive.
It may be handy to take the old valve with you, to make sure that you get the right size. You can also note the make and model of your toilet and match it to a compatible valve. When you have your replacement, install it using the manufacturer’s instructions. Then, turn the water back on and test to see if everything is working as it should.
Fixing A Float Ball
If your toilet tank isn’t filling all the way or it’s overflowing, then it could be the float ball that measures the amount of water inside the tank. In many cases, all it needs is an adjustment. With a screwdriver or simply adjusting the rod, you can adjust and fix this problem in seconds.
For a toilet tank that’s not filling enough, gently bend the rod upwards toward the top of the tank. If your toilet tank is filling up too much and the toilet keeps running, then you can adjust the rod downward.
To replace it, all you need is a screwdriver and a replacement float kit. You can also find these at your local hardware store, complete with instructions to install them. All you have to do is screw the new one back on and your toilet is fixed!
Replacing A Worn Toilet Tank Gasket
Another common problem with a running toilet is when the gasket that connects the toilet to the tank is worn. This rarely needs replacing but the rubber can become dry and cracked due to age.
Make sure to get the right-sized replacement gasket, as an improperly sized one will only cause more problems. You have to get the perfect fit to ensure a watertight seal.
To replace a worn gasket, you’ll have to disconnect the hose that supplies the water. Then, find the screws that connect the gasket to the tank while keeping tension on the nuts on the bottom of the tank. After you’ve unscrewed the old one, simply screw in the new one, and you’re done!
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For bigger repairs and replacements, it’s always a better idea to call a professional. Luckily for you, our team is here, not only with expertise but with the best customer service.
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