A running toilet can be a frustrating and wasteful problem. Not only does it cause unnecessary noise, but it also wastes a significant amount of water. If you’ve ever found yourself listening to the constant sound of water running, you’re not alone. Fortunately, this is a problem that can often be fixed with a little know-how. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to troubleshoot and fix a running toilet.
Understanding the Problem
Before you start fixing the issue, it’s important to understand why a toilet may run continuously. The most common causes include:
- Flapper Valve Issues: The flapper is a rubber valve located at the bottom of the tank that controls the flow of water from the tank into the bowl. If the flapper doesn’t close properly, water continues to leak into the bowl, causing the toilet to run.
- Float Problems: The float is the part that rises with the water level. If the float is set too high, it may cause the tank to overfill and spill water into the overflow tube, which triggers the toilet to keep running.
- Fill Valve Malfunctions: The fill valve controls the flow of water into the tank. If the valve is faulty or clogged, it may fail to stop the water from flowing once the tank is full.
- Overflow Tube Issues: If the overflow tube, which prevents the tank from overflowing, is cracked or damaged, it could cause continuous water flow into the bowl.
Step-by-Step Guide to Fix a Running Toilet
1. Check the Flapper Valve
The first place to check is the flapper valve. If it’s not sealing properly, water will keep flowing from the tank to the bowl. Here’s how to inspect and fix it:
- Lift the toilet tank lid and flush the toilet.
- Observe the flapper valve; it should close tightly over the opening at the bottom of the tank.
- If the flapper is worn out, cracked, or doesn’t close properly, replace it. You can purchase a new flapper at your local hardware store.
- To replace the flapper, turn off the water supply to the toilet and drain the tank. Remove the old flapper, attach the new one, and make sure it fits snugly.
2. Adjust the Float
Next, check the float. The float should rise with the water level and stop the fill valve from allowing more water into the tank once it’s full. If the float is set too high, the tank will overflow into the overflow tube, causing the toilet to run.
- Locate the float arm (or ball) inside the tank. If it’s adjustable, you can bend the arm slightly to lower the float.
- If your toilet has a modern ballcock valve with a plastic float, you can adjust the float by turning the screw on the top of the valve.
- After adjusting, flush the toilet to see if the water level stops at the correct height. The water should be about an inch below the top of the overflow tube.
3. Inspect the Fill Valve
If the float adjustment doesn’t solve the issue, the fill valve could be the culprit. Over time, the fill valve can become clogged or damaged. Here’s what you can do:
- Turn off the water supply to the toilet and drain the tank.
- Remove the fill valve and inspect it for any visible damage or blockages.
- Clean the valve with vinegar or a mild cleaner to remove any mineral buildup. If the valve appears to be worn out, replacing it may be necessary.
To replace the fill valve, follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. This typically involves disconnecting the water supply, removing the old valve, and installing the new one.
4. Check the Overflow Tube
Finally, take a look at the overflow tube. If it’s cracked or damaged, water will continually flow into the bowl, and your toilet will keep running. Here’s how to check:
- If the overflow tube is damaged, you may need to replace it entirely. Fortunately, these tubes are affordable and easy to replace.
- Inspect the tube for cracks or any debris. If everything looks fine, ensure the water level in the tank is set correctly to prevent water from flowing into the tube.
Additional Tips to Prevent a Running Toilet
Once you’ve fixed your running toilet, here are some tips to prevent the issue from happening again:
- Regularly inspect your toilet: Check the flapper, float, and fill valve every few months to ensure they’re working properly.
- Don’t overload the tank: Only flush toilet paper and human waste. Avoid flushing anything else, like paper towels or sanitary products, which can cause clogs and damage the system.
- Consider a professional check-up: If you can’t figure out the problem, or if the issue persists, it may be a good idea to call a plumber. They can inspect your toilet and make any necessary repairs.
Conclusion
A running toilet is more than just an inconvenience—it wastes water and increases your water bill. By following these simple steps, you can often resolve the issue on your own. If you’ve replaced the flapper, adjusted the float, and inspected the fill valve, and your toilet is still running, it may be time to call a professional New Castle plumber. Our plumbers at Duty Calls Plumbing can diagnose more complex issues and ensure your toilet is running efficiently again.