7 Simple Steps to Stop Your Toilet from Running

A common plumbing problem that, if ignored, wastes water and increases utility bills is a running toilet. Thankfully, a lot of the issues are easily fixed with small changes. Get in touch with a local plumber in Winslow Township if you have ongoing problems or if you require professional assistance in order to ensure precise and effective repairs, avoiding more water waste and increased expenses.

1. Check the Flapper

One of the most common causes of a running toilet is a faulty flapper. The flapper is the rubber valve at the bottom of the tank that lifts to let water flow into the bowl when you flush and then seals the tank to allow it to refill. Over time, the flapper can wear out or become misaligned, leading to water continuously leaking from the tank into the bowl.

Here’s how to check the flapper:

• Remove the tank lid and observe the flapper as you flush the toilet.
• If the flapper doesn’t close all the way, or if it looks warped or deteriorated, it’s likely the culprit.

Replacing the flapper can often resolve the issue immediately. If this doesn't fix the problem, move on to the next steps.

2. Adjust the chain.

If the flapper appears to be in good condition, the next step is to inspect the chain that connects the flapper to the toilet handle. If the chain is too long, it can get caught under the flapper, preventing it from creating a proper seal. Conversely, if the chain is too short, it may hold the flapper open, allowing water to flow continuously into the bowl.

To adjust the chain:

• Turn off the water supply and flush the toilet to drain the tank.
• Check the length of the chain and ensure it has about 1/2 inch of slack.

A properly adjusted chain ensures the flapper seals correctly after each flush, preventing the toilet from running.

3. Examine the float

The float in your toilet controls the water level in the tank. If the float is set too high, the water will keep rising and eventually spill into the overflow tube, causing the toilet to run continuously. Adjusting the float to the correct level can help prevent this issue.

Here’s how to adjust the float:

• If you have a ball float, you can adjust the float arm by bending it downward to lower the water level.
• If your toilet uses a cylindrical float, there will be a screw on the fill valve that you can adjust to raise or lower the water level.

The water level should be set about an inch below the top of the overflow tube to prevent overfilling.

4. Inspect the fill valve.

The fill valve is responsible for refilling the tank after each flush. If the fill valve is malfunctioning, it may allow water to continuously flow into the tank, causing the toilet to run. Over time, the fill valve can wear out or become clogged with debris, leading to improper functioning.

To inspect and replace the fill valve:

• Turn off the water supply and flush the toilet to drain the tank.
• Remove the fill valve and inspect it for signs of damage or debris.

A faulty fill valve is a common cause of running toilets, and replacing it can often resolve the issue.

5. Clean the Inlet Holes

Over time, the inlet holes in your toilet can become clogged with mineral deposits or debris. These holes, located under the rim of the toilet bowl, allow water to flow into the bowl during a flush. If they become blocked, it can affect the flushing mechanism and cause the toilet to run.

To clean the inlet holes:

• Turn off the water supply and flush the toilet to drain the tank.
• Turn the water supply back on and flush the toilet to test the flow.

Regular cleaning of the inlet holes can prevent clogs and ensure proper water flow during each flush.

6. Check the Overflow Tube

The overflow tube is designed to prevent the tank from overfilling. However, if the water level is set too high or the tube is damaged, it can cause the toilet to run continuously. It’s important to check the overflow tube for any signs of cracks or misalignment.

To check the overflow tube:

• Turn off the water supply and flush the toilet to drain the tank.
• Inspect the tube for any cracks or signs of wear.

A damaged overflow tube will need to be replaced to prevent water from spilling into the bowl and causing the toilet to run.

7. Tighten or replace the flush handle.

Sometimes, a running toilet can be caused by a loose or malfunctioning flush handle. If the handle is sticking or not returning to its original position after flushing, it can cause the flapper to remain open, allowing water to continuously flow into the bowl.

To fix a loose or sticking flush handle:

• Tighten the nut that holds the handle in place inside the tank.
• If the handle is damaged or corroded, it may need to be replaced. Replacement handles are available at most hardware stores.

A properly functioning flush handle ensures that the toilet operates smoothly and helps prevent unnecessary water waste.

A running toilet can be a frustrating problem, but with these seven simple steps, you can often resolve the issue quickly and easily. From checking the flapper to adjusting the fill valve, there are many ways to stop a running toilet and prevent water waste. However, if the problem persists or if you’re unsure about any of the steps, calling a professional, Mr. Rooter Plumbing of South Jersey, ensures that the job is done right the first time, saving you time, water, and money in the long run.