Is the sound of a constantly running toilet driving you up the wall? A toilet that won’t stop running isn’t just annoying; it can also waste a significant amount of water, leading to higher utility bills. Fortunately, this common issue can often be resolved with a little troubleshooting. Here are some of the most common causes of a running toilet and how you can fix them.
Faulty Flapper
Cause: The flapper is the rubber seal that controls the flow of water from the tank to the bowl. Over time, it can become warped, cracked, or otherwise damaged, preventing it from sealing properly.
Fix: Check the flapper for any signs of wear and tear. If it’s damaged, replace it. Flappers are inexpensive and can be found at any hardware store. Make sure to turn off the water supply and drain the tank before replacing the flapper.
Chain Issues
Cause: The chain connecting the flapper to the flush handle may be too short or too long. If it’s too short, it can prevent the flapper from closing fully. If it’s too long, it can get caught under the flapper, also preventing a proper seal.
Fix: Adjust the length of the chain so that it has a slight slack when the flapper is closed. This adjustment can usually be made by simply moving the clip up or down the chain links.
Float Problems
Cause: The float controls the water level in the tank. If it’s set too high, water will continuously overflow into the overflow tube, causing the toilet to run. Conversely, if the float is damaged, it might not rise enough to shut off the water flow.
Fix: Adjust the float height according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This often involves bending the float arm or adjusting a screw on the fill valve. If the float is damaged, you may need to replace it.
Fill Valve Issues
Cause: The fill valve controls the refill of the tank after a flush. If it’s faulty, it might not shut off properly, leading to continuous running.
Fix: Inspect the fill valve for any signs of damage or wear. Cleaning or replacing the fill valve can often solve the problem. Fill valve replacement kits are readily available at hardware stores and come with detailed instructions.
Incorrect Water Level
Cause: The water level in the tank should be about an inch below the top of the overflow tube. If it’s too high, water will constantly flow into the overflow tube and keep the toilet running.
Fix: Adjust the water level by adjusting the float. Lowering the float will reduce the water level in the tank. This adjustment can usually be done by turning a screw on the fill valve or adjusting the float arm.
Worn-Out Gaskets and Seals
Cause: Gaskets and seals around the fill valve and flush valve can wear out over time, leading to leaks that cause the toilet to run continuously.
Fix: Inspect these gaskets and seals for signs of wear or damage. If they are compromised, replace them with new ones. Most toilet repair kits include these gaskets and seals.
Mineral Deposits
Cause: Mineral deposits from hard water can build up and interfere with the functioning of the toilet’s components, especially the flapper and fill valve.
Fix: Clean the components with a vinegar solution to remove mineral deposits. If the buildup is severe, you may need to replace the affected parts.
Conclusion
A running toilet is usually an easy fix once you identify the cause. By addressing these common issues, you can stop the constant running and save on your water bill. If you’re not comfortable performing these repairs yourself, don’t hesitate to contact a professional plumber for assistance.