Why Does My Toilet Keep Running?
Common Causes of a Running Toilet
Several issues can lead to a continuously running toilet. Here are the most common culprits:
Faulty Flapper
One of the primary causes of running toilet problems is a faulty flapper. The flapper is a rubber seal at the bottom of the tank that lifts when you flush, allowing water to flow into the bowl. Over time, flappers can warp, crack, or become worn out, which leads to a poor seal. When the flapper doesn’t close properly, water leaks into the bowl continuously, causing the tank to refill constantly.
Chain Issues
The flapper is connected to the flush lever by a chain, which can sometimes be too long or too short. If the chain is too short, it won’t allow the flapper to fully close. Conversely, if the chain is too long, it can become tangled and prevent the flapper from sealing the tank. Adjusting the chain to the right length often resolves this issue.
Float or Fill Valve Problems
The float and fill valve work together to control the water level in the toilet tank. If the float is set too high, it will allow too much water into the tank, causing it to overflow into the overflow tube, which keeps the toilet running. Also, a worn-out or malfunctioning fill valve may not shut off correctly. Adjusting or replacing the float or fill valve can often solve these issues.
Worn-Out Gaskets or Seals
Aside from the flapper, other gaskets or seals within the tank can wear down over time, especially if exposed to hard water or harsh cleaning agents. When these seals degrade, they allow small amounts of water to leak from the tank, causing the toilet to run. Inspecting and replacing any worn gaskets can help prevent water from escaping unnecessarily.
Cracked Overflow Tube
The overflow tube prevents the tank from overflowing by allowing excess water to drain into the bowl. However, if the overflow tube has a crack, water can continually leak out of the tank, keeping the toilet running. A cracked overflow tube often needs to be replaced to fully resolve the issue.
How To Fix a Running Toilet
While some toilet repairs require the help of a professional, there are a few fixes you can try yourself. Here are some DIY tips on how to fix a running toilet:
Toilet Flapper Replacement
If a faulty flapper is the cause of your running toilet, replacing it is usually a straightforward fix. First, shut off the water supply to the toilet. Drain the tank by holding down the flush lever, then disconnect the old flapper from the flush valve. Attach the new flapper, ensuring it fits snugly and creates a proper seal. Turn the water back on and check if the running has stopped.
Adjust the Chain
If the chain length is causing issues, adjust it so that there’s just a bit of slack. Make sure it’s not too tight, as this can prevent the flapper from closing fully, and not too loose, as this can cause tangling. Test the toilet to see if the adjustment resolves the issue.
Fix the Toilet Float Valve
If you suspect the float or fill valve is the culprit, adjust the float to the recommended level, which is typically marked on the inside of the tank. If the fill valve is damaged, you may need to replace it entirely. This is a more involved toilet repair DIY project, but many replacement kits are available, and the instructions provided are usually straightforward.
Replace Worn-Out Seals and Gaskets
If you notice other gaskets or seals are degraded, replace them with new ones. These are generally inexpensive and can prevent minor leaks that keep the toilet running.
Repair or Replace the Overflow Tube
If the overflow tube has a visible crack, you’ll need to replace it. This repair may be more complex, as it typically involves removing the flush mechanism. If you’re comfortable with DIY plumbing, follow the instructions included with the replacement part. If not, consider calling a professional.
When To Call a Professional
While many running toilet problems can be resolved with basic DIY fixes, some situations require the expertise of a professional plumber. For more complex repairs, it’s best to leave the work to a professional so as to avoid making the problem worse or performing the repairs incorrectly. For example, a cracked overflow tube, broken fill valve, or another issue you can’t easily identify will be best addressed by a trained plumber.
Additionally, if a running toilet is a recurring problem in your home, even after performing DIY repairs, there may be an underlying issue that requires professional attention. Also, if your toilet or plumbing system is older, you may encounter recurring issues that signal it’s time for a replacement or an in-depth inspection by a professional.
Call Iceberg Home Services for Professional Toilet Repairs
If a running toilet is wasting water and giving you a headache, turn to Iceberg Home Services for a fast and effective solution! Our highly trained and experienced plumbers provide a full range of plumbing services in Central Florida, including bathroom plumbing and toilet repairs and replacements. We also offer 24/7 emergency plumbing repairs if you are dealing with an issue that can’t wait until normal business hours. When you call us, we’ll work quickly to diagnose and fix the issue so that you don’t have to worry about faulty plumbing anymore.
Contact Iceberg Home Services today to schedule toilet repairs in Central Florida.
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