How to Fix a Running Toilet: Diagnose and Deal With the Problem in 6 Steps

Here are six reasons your toilet is running, from the most common to the least:

1. Check the flapper chain

The chain that connects to the baffle plate at the bottom of the tank can cause problems if it is too long or too short. If it’s too long, it can catch on the flap and prevent a tight seal. If this happens, use your fingers to adjust the length of the key chain attached to the clip. If there is a lot of excess links, use pliers to shorten the chain. If the chain is too short or gets caught on something in the tank, it can also cause water to flow constantly. Check to see if the chain is caught on anything (possibly even itself) that needs to be untied. An old toilet may have a rusty flap chain that should be replaced entirely.

2. Check the flapper

Locate the flap at the bottom of the tank and gently push it with your hand. You can also use a long screwdriver if you don’t want to get your hands dirty. If this causes your toilet to stop working, the flap is defective and needs to be replaced. Discoloration or visible signs of wear or warping are also indications that you should replace the old flapper. If this is your problem, continue with the next steps below.

3. Check the water level

Ideally, the water level in the toilet tank should be 1 to 1.5 inches below the top of the overflow pipe (also called the overflow pipe), an open-ended pipe located centrally in the tank. If the water level is too high, water will constantly run out of the filling tube into the overflow tube and cause running noise. To check this, you need to turn on the water supply to the toilet again by turning the previously closed knob in the opposite direction. When water continuously drains into this tube without stopping, you should lower the float to adjust the water level.

4. Check out the float ball (especially on older toilets)

The float ball adjusts the water level. Use your fingers to gently flex the float arm, which connects to the often black, balloon-like float near the top of the tank, to adjust its position and float height. Flush the toilet and see if the running stops once the tank is filled.

5. If you have a float cup

A float cup sits on top of the filling valve. To adjust, find a spring clip on the side and push in both sides with your hand. You should now be able to raise or lower the float bowl as needed. When you’re done, flush the toilet to see if that fixed your problem.

6. Check the inflation valve

If the above fixes don’t work, you may need to replace your toilet’s fill valve, which is usually located to the left of the overflow pipe. It can become dirty or brittle over time and may need to be replaced every few years. With the water supply shut off and the tank empty, unscrew the water supply pipe located outside the tank by loosening the lock nut with pliers. You should then be able to pull the old fill valve up and out of the tank for you to take to the hardware store to ensure you buy a new same size fill valve. Once you have your replacement in hand, reverse the above steps to install it, then adjust the float to the desired water level. When you’re done, flush the toilet to see if that fixed your problem.

How do I fix a toilet that runs constantly?

If you’ve determined that a broken flap is the cause of your leaking toilet, replacing it should be an easy do-it-yourself repair. First you want to remove the existing flap. To do this, unhook the sides from the pins at the bottom of the overflow pipe (that’s the pipe in the middle of the tank). Next, you should bring this flap with you to a hardware store so you can purchase one that is the same shape and dimensions as the one you are replacing. “It’s important not to mix and match toilet parts, as most toilets are configured to work optimally with parts from the same brand,” warns Reinhart. To fit a new flapper, simply insert it and reattach the hooks and pins that you loosened when removing the faulty flapper. Turn the water back on and see if that solves the problem.

How often do toilets need a new flap?

“As toilets age, seal leaks are relatively common,” admits Reinhart. It could be an issue that needs attention every three to five years. And remember, this can happen to any toilet in your house. Therefore, regularly check the toilet that you may not use as often – such as the toilet. B. a guest toilet.

How can I extend the life of toilet parts and minimize toilet repairs?

Several factors can contribute to wear and damage to your toilet tank’s components, Reinhart says. Cleaning products like tablets that go into the tank often contain harsh chemicals like chlorine that can cause plastic parts to deteriorate over time. The flapper is particularly susceptible to this type of damage. Likewise, those who rely on well water should keep up to date with maintenance to ensure the water is treated properly and not causing unnecessary harm.