Is your toilet driving you crazy with its constant running? Don't worry, you don't have to call a plumber just yet! Follow our easy steps and process, and you'll be able to quickly fix your running toilet problems and save yourself from costly repairs. Keep reading to find out how!
Common Causes of Running Toilets
Yes, I know you're tired of jiggling the handle all day and listening to your toilet run. So it's time for you to solve that annoying problem for good! But first, let me help you look at the most common reasons why toilets run. There are a few things that could make your toilet runs, such as a broken flapper valve or a worn-out fill valve.
What are the most common causes of running toilets?
- Flapper valve: This rubber seal covers the tank-to-bowl passage. Unsealed bowls can continue to leak
- Worn-out fill valve: The fill valve fills the toilet tank. If the tank isn't working properly, the toilet may run.
- Incorrectly adjusted flush handle: If the flush handle is not positioned appropriately, water may continuously run into the bowl.
- Clogged or blocked overflow pipe: If the overflow pipe is clogged or blocked, water cannot flow from the tank to the bowl, forcing the toilet to run continually.
- Leaky toilet tank bolts: Loose or damaged toilet tank bolts can leak water, causing the toilet to run.
Tools and Materials Needed
It's a good idea to have these tools and materials on hand before you begin the repair process. You may not end up using all of them, but it's better to be prepared just in case.
Tools and materials you may need to fix a running toilet:
- Screwdriver
- Pliers
- Adjustable wrench
- Toilet auger or snake
- Flapper valve
- Flapper valve seat
- Tank-to-bowl gasket
- Tank bolts
- Toilet bowl wax sea
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1. Check the Flapper
This rubber component can become worn, warped, or dirty over time, causing your toilet to run. To fix the problem, simply inspect the flapper for any signs of damage or grime. If it's beyond repair, replace it with a new one. If it's just dirty, a quick cleaning with warm water and vinegar will do the trick.
Step 2. How to Replace the Flapper
Replacing your toilet flapper is a simple fix that can save you money on your water bill and stop that annoying running sound. Plus, it's an easy DIY project that you can do in just a few steps. First, just turn off the water supply to your toilet and flush to empty the tank. Then, remove the tank lid and locate the flapper valve, which should be connected to the flush handle with a chain. Inspect it for any signs of wear or damage, and if it needs to be replaced, simply attach a new one to the flush handle, seat it in the opening at the bottom of the tank, and turn the water back on. Once done, test your toilet to make sure it's flushing properly, and if it is, you're all set! You'll realize that fixing a running toilet has never been easier.
Step 2. Check Floating Ball to Adjust Tank Water Level
Always make sure to set your toilet's water level 1 inch below the overflow tube. If the water level is higher, adjust the toilet's float ball, rod, or cup. Float rods, float balls, and float cups are attached to the fill valve and rise and fall with the water level.
Lowering the water level in your tank is a simple DIY plumbing project that only takes a few steps. First, turn off the water supply to your toilet and flush to empty the tank. Then, remove the tank lid and locate the water level marker. You can then adjust the water level by turning the adjustment screw or nut on the fill valve until the water is just below the marker. Replace the tank lid, turn the water back on, and flush it a few times to make sure everything is working properly. On top of that, you'll be saving water and money in no time!
Step 3. How to Replace the Fill Valve
If the overflow tube is at the appropriate height for the toilet and the water level is approximately an inch below it, the fill valve may be leaking. Flush valve repairs are harder than fill valve replacements.
Shut off the toilet's water supply using the input valve. Flush to empty the tank. Soak up any remaining water, then remove the water supply line with channel locks. Unscrew the bottom nut to loosen the fill valve assembly.
After removing the old fill valve assembly, replace it. The fill valve and float should be toilet-height. Lock the tank's fill valve. Turn on the new fill valve's water supply line. As the tank fills, check for bottom and water supply leaks. If the fix succeeds, water won't continue to get into the tank until it overflows when the float reaches the designated level.
Step 4. How to Replace the Flush Valve
After checking the overflow tube, water level setting, flush valve chain length, and flapper, the problem may be the flush valve assembly. Buy a flush valve assembly online or at a home improvement store to make sure the new overflow tube is tall enough.
Turn off the toilet's water using the inlet valve. Next, flush the toilet to drain the water and wipe out the tank. Channel locks disconnect the tank's water supply. The old flush valve component must be removed from the toilet tank. Lift the tank off the toilet to expose the tank-to-bowl gasket. Loosen the flush valve nut and remove the old assembly.
Before putting the tank back in, replace the flush valve, tighten the nut, and replace the gasket between the tank and the bowl. Reconnect the water supply and tank-to-bowl bolts. Restart the water and fill the tank. While it's filled, check for base leaks. If water keeps running after the tank is full, the tank-to-bowl gasket or flapper may be faulty.
Tips for Troubleshooting
Check to see if the toilet is clogged. This is a common problem and can usually be fixed by using a plunger. If the plunger does not work, you can try using a toilet auger.
- Make sure the water supply valve is turned on. If the valve is turned off, the toilet will not flush properly.
- Check the flapper valve. This valve controls the flow of water from the tank to the bowl. If the flapper valve is not sealing properly, it can cause the toilet to run constantly or not flush properly.
- Check the fill valve. If the fill valve is not functioning properly, it can cause the toilet to run or not flush properly.
- Check the flushing mechanism. If the flushing mechanism is not working properly, it can cause the toilet to not flush properly.
- Check for leaks. If the toilet is leaking, it can cause the toilet to run constantly and waste water.
- If these tips do not help fix the problem, it may be necessary to call a plumber for further assistance.
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