Running Toilet Driving You Crazy? Here’s How to Fix It

As a homeowner, few things are more frustrating than a constantly running toilet. Not only is the sound annoying, but it can also lead to higher water bills and wasted resources.

Introduction:

Fortunately, learning How to fix a running toilet is a simple process that can be completed with basic tools and some know-how.

In this article, I’ll provide a step-by-step guide to diagnosing and fixing a constantly running toilet and some tips for avoiding common mistakes and knowing when to call a professional plumber.

Why is your Toilet Running Constantly?

Before we get into the steps to fix a running toilet, it’s essential to understand why this might happen. There are a few common reasons why a toilet might keep running and How to stop a toilet from running:

1. The flapper valve is damaged or worn out
2. The water level in the tank is set too high
3. The fill valve is malfunctioning
4. The chain connecting the flapper to the flush handle is too long or too short

By understanding these common causes and knowing what each toilet part does (Diagram Below), you can easily diagnose and fix a toilet running.

Toilet Parts Diagram:

How to Diagnose a Running Toilet

Before you can fix a toilet that runs, you need to diagnose the problem. Here are the Three most common problems and the steps to figure out what’s causing your toilet to run:

1. Listen to the sound of running water. If you hear water running constantly, that’s a good indication that your toilet is running (and not leaking – which is worse)
2. Remove the lid from the toilet tank and check the water level. If the water level is too high, that can be a sign that the fill valve is malfunctioning due to overflow.
3. Check the flapper valve. The toilet flapper must be replaced if it looks damaged or worn out.

Steps to Fix a Running Toilet

Now that you know why your toilet might be running, let’s get into the steps for fixing it. Here’s what you’ll need:

• A Replacement Flapper Valve (if necessary)
• A pair of pliers
• A screwdriver
• A towel or rag
• A Bucket to Catch Water

Adjusting the water level

If the water level in the tank is set too high, it can cause the toilet to run constantly. Here’s How to adjust the Water Level in Toilet Tank:

1. Turn off the water supply to the toilet by turning the shut-off valve clockwise.
2. Remove the lid from the toilet tank and set it aside.
3. Locate the float, usually a ball or cylinder attached to the fill valve.
4. Adjust the float, so it sits at the correct level, usually marked on the side of the tank.
5. Turn the water supply back on and test the toilet to ensure it works properly.

How to Replace a Flapper valve

If the flapper valve is the culprit behind your running toilet, here’s how to replace it:

1. Turn off the water supply to the toilet by turning the shut-off valve clockwise.
2. Remove the lid from the toilet tank and set it aside.
3. Remove the old flapper valve by detaching the chain from the flush handle and unhooking it from the flush valve.
4. Install the new flapper valve by attaching it to the flush valve and hooking the chain back up to the flush handle.
5. Turn the water supply back on and test the toilet to ensure it works properly.

How to Replace Toilet Flapper Valve (Video)

Fixing the Fill valve

If the Fill valve is malfunctioning, it can cause the toilet to run constantly. Here’s how to fix it:

1. Turn off the water supply to the toilet by turning the shut-off valve clockwise.
2. Remove the lid from the toilet tank and set it aside.
3. Locate the fill valve, which is usually a tall, narrow tube in the center of the tank.
4. Use pliers to tighten any loose connections or replace any worn-out parts. You may have to replace the Fill Valve completely.
5. Turn the water supply back on, test the toilet, and check for leaks.

How To Replace Toilet Fill Valve (Video)

Other Possible causes of a Running Toilet

While the flapper valve is the most common culprit behind a running toilet, there are other possible causes. These include:

1. A malfunctioning fill valve
2. A damaged or clogged flush valve
3. A cracked or damaged toilet bowl (leak)

If you’ve tried replacing the flapper valve and your toilet is still running, it’s possible that one of these other issues is to blame.

Common mistakes to avoid while fixing a running toilet

While fixing a running toilet is usually a simple process, there are some common mistakes that homeowners make that can cause more problems. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

1. Using the wrong parts. Make sure you use the correct replacement parts for your toilet, or you could end up causing more damage.
2. Overtightening connections. Tightening nuts and bolts too much can cause them to crack or break, so be careful not to overtighten them.
3. Forgetting to turn off the water supply. Always turn off the water supply to the toilet before doing any repairs or replacements.
4. Not testing the toilet properly. After making any repairs or replacements, flush the toilet thoroughly to ensure it’s working correctly.

When to call a Professional Plumber

While fixing a running toilet is usually a simple process, there are some situations where it’s best to call a professional plumber. These include:

1. If you’re uncomfortable working with plumbing or don’t have the necessary tools.
2. If you’ve tried replacing the flapper valve and adjusting the water level, your toilet is still running.
3. If you suspect a larger problem with your plumbing system causing the toilet to run.

If you’re unsure whether you need professional help, it’s always better to err on caution and call in a plumber.

Watch This Video First:  How To Change Toilet Tank Parts (This Old House)

Conclusion

A running toilet can be a frustrating and annoying problem, but it’s usually a simple fix that can be done with some basic tools and some know-how.

By understanding the common causes of a running toilet and following the steps outlined in this article, you should be able to diagnose and fix the problem quickly.

In no time, you will be changing your mantra from “my toilet keeps running” to “I can fix my own toilet” 🙂

Remember to avoid common mistakes and know when to call a professional plumber.

Additional Reading & Resources:

• How to Remove Hard Water Stains From Your Toilet
• How To Remove a Dishwasher (Before New One Arrives!) – BestHomeGear.com
• How To Replace a Lavatory Faucet
• Can You Use Any Soap for the Dishwasher? – University of Wisconsin
• Toilet Repair Made Easy – Besthomegear.com
• Dishwasher vs. Handwashing Dishes & Water Usage – Penn State University