Toilet Running - Simple Fixes

A running toilet is one of the most common yet annoying plumbing problems homeowners face.

The constant sound of water running can be irritating, and the wasted water can lead to higher utility bills.

Fortunately, fixing a running toilet is often a simple task that can be done without the need for a plumber.

Here are some common causes of a running toilet and easy fixes you can try at home.

1. Flapper Valve Issues

The flapper valve is a rubber seal located at the bottom of the tank.

It controls the flow of water from the tank to the bowl when you flush the toilet. If the flapper is worn out or doesn’t create a proper seal, water will continuously leak into the bowl, causing the toilet to run.

Fix: To check the flapper, turn off the water supply to the toilet and drain the tank. Inspect the flapper for any signs of wear or damage.

If it looks worn out or doesn’t close tightly, it’s time to replace it.

You can find replacement flappers at most hardware stores. Simply remove the old flapper, install the new one, and adjust the chain for proper operation.

2. Float Height Adjustment

The float controls the water level in the tank. If the float is set too high, the tank will fill past the overflow tube, causing water to constantly flow into the bowl.

If it's set too low, the toilet might not fill properly after a flush.

Fix: Open the tank lid and locate the float.

Depending on the type of toilet, the float could be a ball or a cylindrical piece attached to a rod.

Adjust the height by either bending the rod or turning a screw on the float.

The water level should be about an inch below the top of the overflow tube.

If adjusting the float doesn’t solve the problem, the float mechanism may need replacing.

3. Faulty Fill Valve

The fill valve controls how much water is allowed into the tank.

Over time, the fill valve can wear out or become clogged, causing it to malfunction and leave the toilet running.

Fix: If you suspect the fill valve is the issue, start by turning off the water supply and draining the tank.

Inspect the valve for signs of damage or clogging.

If the valve is corroded or doesn’t shut off properly, it may need to be replaced.

Replacing a fill valve is fairly straightforward, and many kits come with step-by-step instructions.



4. Dirty or Clogged Overflow Tube

The overflow tube prevents the tank from overflowing by directing excess water into the toilet bowl.

If the tube becomes clogged with debris or mineral buildup, it could cause water to flow constantly.

Fix: Clean the overflow tube with a soft brush or cloth to remove any debris or buildup.

If there’s visible corrosion or damage to the tube, it might need to be replaced.



Reach Out To The House Doctors

A running toilet doesn’t always require a professional plumber to fix, but sometimes it's best for a professional to assess any leaks or issues that may be hiding.

With a few basic tools and some know-how, you can troubleshoot common issues like a faulty flapper, float height problems, or a clogged fill valve.

By making these simple repairs, you’ll save water, money, and the annoyance of a constantly running toilet.

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