A toilet that keeps running can waste a lot of water and increase your water bill. You might be wondering how to stop it.
In this article, we will discuss the steps you can take to fix a running stool and prevent it from happening in the future.
Solving the Issue of a Running Toilet
Brandon Brown
Why Is My Toilet Running?
Before we dive into the steps to fix a running toilet, it's important to understand why it's happening in the first place. A faulty flapper or fill valve usually causes a running toilet. The flapper is the rubber component located at the tank's base that opens to let water pass into the bowl when you initiate a flush. The fill valve is responsible for refilling the tank with water after a flush.
How to Identify the Problem
To determine which part is causing the issue, remove the lid from the tank and flush the toilet. If the water continues to run, the problem is likely with the flapper. If the water stops running, but the tank does not refill, the issue is likely with the fill valve.
Steps to Fix a Running Toilet
Now that you have identified the problem, here are the steps you can take to fix a running stool.
Step 1: Turn off the Water Supply
Before you begin any repairs, it's important to turn off the water supply to the toilet. Look for the shut-off valve located behind the Throne and turn it clockwise to shut off the water.
Step 2: Drain the Tank
Flush the toilet to drain the water from the tank. If the flapper is causing the issue, the tank should not refill.
Step 3: Inspect the Flapper
If the flapper is the culprit, inspect it for any signs of damage or wear. If it looks worn or damaged, it's time to replace it. You can purchase a replacement flapper at your local hardware store.
Step 4: Replace the Flapper
A toilet that constantly runs is not just irritating; it can also lead to substantial water wastage and result in a higher water bill.To swap out the flapper, initially, shut off the water provision to the Toilet. Then, remove the old flapper by unhooking it from the flush valve. Install the new flapper by hooking it onto the flush valve and turning the water supply back on.
Step 5: Adjust the Chain
If the flapper is not the issue, the chain connecting it to the flush handle may be too long. This can prevent the flapper from closing properly, causing the throne to run. Adjust the chain so that there is only a small amount of slack when the flapper is closed.
Step 6: Check the Fill Valve
If the tank is not refilling after a flush, the fill valve may be the problem. Inspect the valve for any signs of damage or wear. If it looks worn or damaged, it's time to replace it.
Step 7: Replace the Fill Valve
To replace the fill valve, first, turn off the water supply to the throne. Then, remove the old fill valve by unscrewing it from the bottom of the tank. Install the new fill valve by screwing it onto the bottom of the tank and turning the water supply back on.
Step 8: Adjust the Water Level
After replacing the fill valve, you may need to adjust the water level in the tank. The water level ought to be approximately an inch beneath the peak of the overflow tube. To adjust the water level, turn the adjustment screw on the fill valve.
Step 9: Turn the Water Supply Back On
Once you have completed the repairs, turn the water supply back on and let the tank refill. Flush the toilet to ensure that it is no longer running.
Preventing a Running Toilet
To prevent a running commode in the future, it's important to perform regular toilet maintenance. Here are some tips to keep your commode running smoothly:
Check the flapper and fill valve for any signs of wear or damage and replace them as needed.
Clean the inside of the tank regularly to prevent buildup and clogs.
Inspect the tank's water level and make adjustments as needed.
Check the chain connecting the flapper to the flush handle and adjust it if necessary.
If you notice any leaks or unusual noises, address them promptly to prevent further damage.
When to Call a Professional Tulsa Plumber
If you have tried the steps above and your toilet is still running, it may be time to call a Tulsa plumber. They can diagnose the issue and make any necessary repairs to get your commode running properly again.
Takeaways
A running toilet can be an annoying and expensive issue. To stop a running toilet and prevent it from happening again, first understand the common causes. Then, follow the steps outlined in this article.
Regular throne maintenance is key to keeping your toilet running smoothly and avoiding costly repairs. If you are unable to fix the issue yourself, don't hesitate to call a top rated Tulsa Plumber for assistance. Call Spot On Plumbing of Tulsa Plumbers at 918-994-7527