How To Fix a Leaky or Running Toilet

Do you have a leaky toilet that is running all the time? A running toilet wastes a lot of water and may lead to a flood or leak in your bathroom. Fixing a running toilet is usually pretty easy if you know what to look for.

What Are the Common Causes of a Running Toilet?

There are the four most common causes of a running toilet.

1. Chain – The chain connects the flapper to the knob you use to flush the toilet. If the chain is too long or poorly adjusted, it may get stuck in the flapper and prevent a good seal from forming. If it’s too short, it can hold the flapper open.
2. Flapper – The flapper is a plastic or rubber stopper that makes a seal between the toilet tank and bowl. When you flush the toilet, the flapper opens and water flows from the tank into the bowl. Flappers can get dirty and form a bad seal or even will wear out over time.
3. Float – The float is the mechanism that controls when the toilet tank is filled with water. Older toilets may have a ball float, which floats a rubber ball on top of the water in the toilet tank. Newer toilets have a cup float, where a smaller float slides around a central tube. Your toilet may run if the float is not set correctly and you may need to adjust or replace it over time.
4. Fill Valve – The fill valve is the mechanism that fills the toilet tank. It will turn on when the float drops too low and runs until the tank is full. Over time the fill valve can wear out, causing the toilet to keep running.

How Do You Make Repairs to a Running Toilet?

You should inspect each of those items with the water running so you get a clear picture of what is happening. You should be able to make adjustments to the chain and the float with the water still on. However, it is easier to replace the flapper with the water off.

You will need to turn off the water and drain the tank before replacing the fill valve. Flushing the toilet does not empty the tank, so use a sponge or a towel to soak up the excess water.

Adjust the Chain

The length of the chain n the flapper can also cause your toilet to run. Adjust the length of the chain so the flapper forms a good seal with the tank. You can loop it back on itself near the flush lever or even cut off excess chain links.

Clean or Replace the Flapper

Minerals and dirt can build up on the flapper, preventing it from making a good seal and causing your toilet to run more than necessary. Soak the flapper in vinegar for half an hour, then scrub it with an old toothbrush.

If it still does not form a good seal or is damaged, replacing the flapper will fix a running toilet. Most flappers are universal, but take your old one to the hardware store.

Adjust the Float

If your float is set improperly, it can cause your toilet to run more than necessary. Loosen the screw and adjust the arm until the float is in the right position.

For cup floats, there is usually a screw at the top of the fill valve. Typically clockwise turns will raise the float, while counterclockwise turns will lower it. Regardless of the type of float you have, it may take a few flushes to dial in the right settings.

Replace the Fill Valve

In some cases, the only way to fix a running toilet is to replace the fill valve. You need to drain the toilet tank and shut off the water first. To remove the old fill valve, use a pair of pliers or a wrench to disconnect the water supply line and remove the old fill valve.

A universal fill valve works with most toilets, but some brands may require a specific valve. Ask the clerk at your local hardware store if you have questions about which valve will work with your toilet.

Take a photo of the outside and inside of your toilet before you disassemble it. Also, take the parts you need to replace with you to the hardware store. This can help with identifying the parts you need and prevent repeated trips to the store.

Follow the instructions included with the new fill valve to reassemble your toilet. In addition to installing the valve in the tank, you will also need to reattach the water supply line and adjust both the float and chain.

If you cannot locate the source of the problem or your toilet continues to run after fixing or replacing parts you should contact a professional plumber to ensure there isn’t a more serious problem.

If you have water damage after a toilet overflow, let the certified experts repair your home fast. Call 1-888-443-3110 now for a free quote and immediate water removal.

Image provided by Osseous / Flickr