A constantly running toilet might seem like a minor inconvenience, but it can waste up to 30 gallons of water each day—that’s like pouring 13 full flushes down the drain without even using them!
Often, a running toilet is one of the most neglected plumbing issues at home, a negligence you’re likely guilty of, like many homeowners. But with this amount of water wastage, there’s surely going to be a price to pay, often coming in the form of an inflated water bill or, worse, a toilet overflow.
Fortunately, this problem calls for a straightforward toilet repair you can do on your own. Here are some ways you can plug your toilet leak at home.
Check the Flapper Valve
The flapper valve is the rubber disc that opens and allows the water to flow into the bowl when the toilet is flushed. After flushing, it should close tightly to stop the flow of water. But when it’s worn or damaged, it can no longer create a seal, allowing the water to continue leaking.
Luckily, you can get your hands on a new flapper replacement from your local hardware and replace the valve yourself. Do it by first turning off the water supply and draining the tank. Then, disconnect the flapper chain and unclip the flapper from the pegs to remove it. Attach the replacement to the flush valve by reversing your disconnection procedure. And lastly, adjust the chain for proper slack, and reconnect the water supply. Test the flush and see if a proper seal is in place this time.
Adjust Fill Valve
When you lift your toilet tank’s cover, you’ll see this tall, vertical tube with a small float that’s either a ball or plastic cup– it’s the fill valve. This component is responsible for managing the correct water level in the tank– it’s like a water “faucet” that turns on to fill the tank and turns off once the water reaches the right level to avoid overflow.
If it isn’t shutting off properly, it may cause the toilet to keep running. Check the water level in the tank, which should be about one inch below the top of the overflow tube. If the water level is too high, the fill valve may need minor adjustments.
Work on the adjustment with the tank drained. Most fill valves have a screw or knob that you can turn to lower the water level. Fill the tank again and see the changes in the water level. You may have to adjust the knob or screw a few times to get to the right level.
Check the Overflow Tube
Even when the fill valve is set correctly, the overflow tube may still let water escape if it has some cracks in it. If you find any damage, you will likely need a replacement. This component is integrated into the flush valve assembly in many toilets, so replacing the entire flush valve may be your best option. You can always call your local plumber for help if this task becomes too big for you or if you just don’t have the time to do it.
Adjust the Flapper Chain
The flapper mechanism is activated by the chain that connects it to the flush handle. If the chain is too long, short, or tight, it may prevent the flapper from closing properly. Check the chain to make sure it has enough slack for the flapper to close completely after flushing. Adjust the chain by adding or removing links to ensure proper closure if needed. You should avoid lengthening it too much, as it can also entangle and prevent the flapper from fully closing.
Check for a Broken Seal
The rubber seal around the flush valve can degrade over time, causing leaks that may prevent the toilet from stopping its refill cycle. Inspect the seal for any cracks, wear, or damage. If the seal is broken or no longer effective, replacing it can help stop your running toilet. This task entails detaching the tank, though, which can be challenging on your own, especially if you don’t have the right tools. Don’t hesitate to call a professional toilet repair if you can’t tackle this task.
Clean the Parts
Mineral buildup or debris inside the tank can cause components to malfunction. Inspect the fill valve, flapper, and overflow tube for any buildup, which can impede proper functioning. Clean any debris or mineral deposits, and if necessary, soak the affected parts in vinegar to remove stubborn buildup. This simple maintenance can help restore proper function to the toilet.
No Time For DIY Toilet Repair? Let Ascent Plumbing Air Conditioning & Heating Handle Your Plumbing Problem
Like any plumbing leak, a running toilet requires your immediate action to avoid wasting freshwater, inflating your utility bills, and risking a toilet overflow. But while such a plumbing fix can be easy, we understand that you don’t always have the tools and time for this task.
So, just leave your toilet repair needs to us– Ascent Plumbing Air Conditioning & Heating! We’re your top-rated plumbing company to depend on when a plumbing problem becomes too big for a DIY method. With advanced tools and best industry practices at our disposal, there’s virtually no plumbing trouble that we can’t resolve.
Call us today and ascend to an optimal plumbing system!
In 2023, Ascent Plumbing Air Conditioning and Heating marked its fifth year in business - five years of treating customers like family, delivering quality work, and staying true to their founding values.
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