How do I fix a running toilet?
A running toilet almost always has one of three causes: a worn flapper that won't seal, a float set too high so water keeps flowing into the overflow tube, or a failed fill valve. Lift the tank lid and watch the water. If the water stays below the top of the overflow tube but still trickles into the bowl, it's the flapper. Water spilling into the overflow tube means the float or fill valve. A flapper or fill valve is an inexpensive part from any hardware store.
Step by step: fixing a running toilet
- Listen and watch: Lift the tank lid and watch the water. If the water stays below the top of the overflow tube but still trickles into the bowl, the flapper isn't sealing. If the fill valve keeps running long after the tank is full, the float is set too high or the fill valve is bad.
- Check the flapper first: The flapper is the rubber piece at the bottom of the tank that seals the flush valve. Press down on it gently. If the running water stops, the flapper is the problem.
- Replace the flapper: Shut off the water supply at the wall. Flush to empty the tank. Unclip the chain from the flush lever and unhook the old flapper from the overflow tube. Bring it to the hardware store for an exact match. Install the new one. Adjust the chain so it has a little slack but not enough to slip under the flapper. Turn the water back on and test a flush.
- Adjust the float: The float should sit so water stops about 1 inch below the top of the overflow tube. On older ball floats, bend the brass rod down slightly. On modern cup floats, squeeze the clip and slide the float down on its rod.
- Replace the fill valve if needed: If the toilet still runs after the flapper and float are addressed, the fill valve itself has failed. A universal fill valve from any hardware store fits most toilets. Shut off water, flush, sponge out the water left in the tank, disconnect the supply line, unscrew the lock nut, lift out the old valve, install the new one per the package directions, and turn the water back on.
When to call Sweetwater: If the toilet still runs after a new flapper and fill valve, the shut-off valve behind the toilet won't turn or leaks, or water shows up at the base of the toilet, call (909) 312-4516 or text (909) 247-6791.
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