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How To Fix A Running Toilet

Running toilets is one of the most common home problems that has ever existed. Toilets are used every day worldwide and they will continue to be used for the next century quite possibly.  When a toilet is flushed, the droppings are flowed into a septic tank or to a sewage treatment plant. But, sometimes during this process, the flapper over time can become hard and crispy or sediment will start to form and this will make it hard for the flapper to seal. This allows for water to drip from the tank into the bowl. There are other reasons that causes a toilet to run like mineral deposits, broken fill valve, and improper water levels. This can be very annoying and can become costly if you’re hiring a plumber. If you’re determined to fix your own toilet, listen up because we’ll give you guys a few steps to fix these problems the EASIEST WAY!

Step 1- Locate the Damn Leak - The common felon in this situation are usually malfunctioning flappers, mineral deposits, cracked fill valves, and water level problems

Step 2- So if you got a messed up flapper there is a way you can fix this problem. The water in your tank is help by a rubber component called a flapper. This component can get cracks over time . and they will no longer form a tight seal. The flapper is connected to the flush handle with a chain. Sometimes, the chain gets tangled and catches on other mechanisms. If this is the case, you can replace the chain or use a piece of string with the same length. There is a hinge where the flapper connects to the bottom of your toilet’s holding tank. Sometimes, an edge of the flapper will get caught in the hinge. Move the flapper up and down to see if anything sticks. If your flapper sits on the tank drain crookedly, it will not seal correctly. Adjust the flapper so it sits right over the drain hole.

Step 3- Improper water levels- When you are troubleshooting to find how to fix a running toilet, always check the water level in your holding tank. It is regulated by an ingenious mechanism that depends on buoyancy. After a flush when the tank refills with water, a hollow rubber bulb floats with the rising water. When the tank is at the proper level, the float automatically turns off the water intake. If you have this problem, you may need to adjust the float: Be sure that your water level is about an inch below the toilet’s overflow tube. If you have an older model toilet with the rubber ball, loosen the screw at the end of the float arm and adjust the float where it should be. Newer toilets have floater cups instead of a rubber ball. Adjust the height by the screws toward the top of the fill valve.The lower you adjust your float, the lower the water level will be in your tank, and the less water you will have per flush. The low flush toilets can save you money, but this can be a problem with other models. Check your float to make sure it is not filled with water. This condition could cause it to sink lower and keep your water valve from closing properly. Unscrew the float and shake it to see if you hear water. If the float is water-logged, then you must replace it.

Step 4- Mineral Deposits- Usually the water inside of homes have minerals like calcium like lime and water.Over time, hard water can create mineral deposits on your toilet’s mechanisms. The result is faulty seals and possible jams. If you suspect mineral deposits, try this method: Take the cover off the holding tank and look for any crusty mineral buildup inside the tank or on the mechanisms.If this is a problem, the whole flushing unit may need cleaned—which is a difficult job. In this case, it is best to contact a plumber.

Step 5- Broken Fill Valve: The water that flows to your toilet tank is controlled by a fill valve. If this valve breaks, water will continue to flow. As a result, the refill cycle will be ceaseless. A tell-tale sign of a broken fill valve is when you notice that it is submerged in the tank. Try this solution: Shut off the toilet’s water supply hose and remove the lid from the tank. Put a small bucket below the water supply hose to catch any water and flush the toilet to empty the tank.At the bottom of the tank, you will find a lock nut that goes to the water supply shank. Unscrew it and take out the whole valve assembly. Any water drainage will go into the empty bucket.Install the new valve the height it should be in the tank. This is usually about an inch below the top edge. The threaded end of the valve goes into the hole in the tank base. You will have to tighten the lock nut by hand. Turn it gently with a pair of pliers to seal it tight. Do not over tighten it as the fixture can crack.

Conclusion:

When you follow the troubleshooting tips on how to fix a running toilet, you may identify an easy solution. If you have tried everything and still encounter a problem, then you should call a professional. If you’re in the San Fernando Valley area better yet, the Granada Hills are then you should contact the 91344 plumbers aka G Hills Plumbers... they’ll fix your running toilet for a reasonable price and they’re available 24/7!