A running toilet is an annoyance, of course. However, more so than that, it can cost money and wastes valuable water. Therefore, fixing this problem should be a priority. In many cases, fixing a running toilet is a small job and one you can tackle yourself. Below are a few different potential fixes to consider before replacing your entire toilet. Spend some time looking at your toilet and determine which will work best and return your toilet to working order.
Reattach the Fill Tube – The fill tube is a small tube that connects the fill valve and overflow tube. One of the most common causes of a constantly running toilet is an unattached fill tube. When this happens, the toilet never fills properly and as such it continually refills. Reattach it so that it sits around an inch above the top of the rim to the overflow tube.
Adjust the Float – The large ball or donut-shaped device in your tank is key to keeping the toilet from running. When the float sits too low or high, the toilet runs non-stop. Fix this problem by sliding the clip on the rod (or twisting the screw on the rod) so that you can adjust the height of the float up or down. It may take some trial and error to get this right, but it can make a big difference.
Adjust the Flapper Chain – The chain that runs from the “flapper” (that closes the tank) may be too short—keeping the flapper from closing all the way. If this is the case, your toilet will run. Add a little length to the chain so that there is a bit of slack when the flapper is closed.
Replace Fill Valve – A busted or cracked fill valve will also cause the toilet to run. If this is the case, purchase a replacement from your local hardware store, shut off the water supply and replace the valve. This should be a simple replacement and you will likely only need a wrench to do the job.
Replace the Flapper – Replacing the flapper is a little more difficult than the valve. As such, you want to make note of the type of toilet you have before attempting to purchase a replacement flapper. There are universal flappers available, but a custom-fit option is preferable. Replacing a cracked or broken flapper will stop a running toilet too.
These are just a few of the issues that could potentially cause your toilet to run nonstop. If none of these seem to be it, you may need to work with an expert. If you are in the Virginia, Hampton Roads area, call the A-1 American team. We work with the best independent contractors in the business and offer services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Give us a call or contact us online—we can’t wait to work with you!
