A running toilet may be caused by wear, deposits or a crooked part. The problem is usually simple, though, such as troubleshooting a faulty toilet flapper. If you’re tired of wasting precious resources and jiggling the handle, use these tips to stop the leak in your toilet.
Check the Chain and Flapper
A chain that’s attached to the flush handle lifts the toilet flapper when the toilet is flushed. A flapper that’s operating as normal should fall back into place on the valve seat. When the float switch reaches a specified mark, the water stops filling the tank.
Sometimes all you need to do to the flapper is adjust the chain. If it’s too long, it can get caught between the flapper and valve seat, allowing water seepage. Shorten the chain a few links, and you’re set. Often the chain is tangled or broken. You can pick up an inexpensive chain or flush valve kit at any home improvement store.
Mineral Deposits
If the flapper isn’t sitting flush on the valve seat, water seepage can occur. Minerals in the water can deposit on the valve seat and toilet flapper, which is a common cause of a running toilet. Here are a few simple maintenance tips:
- Turn off the water to the toilet. The valve is typically right behind the toilet.
- Flush the toilet to drain the tank.
- Clean the flapper and seat valve with soap and an old toothbrush.
- Be careful not to move the flapper side to side or it won’t sit flush.
- Turn the water on and refill the tank.
If that didn’t work, you may need a professional plumber to replace the parts or, if the flapper or valve seat show signs of wear, they should be replaced.
To learn more about toilet flapper problems and other plumbing issues, check out Plumbing By Jake’s plumbing services, or call us today to make an appointment at 928-377-5910 in Arizona or 928-377-5910 in Nevada.
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