At Drain Express, we realize that a running toilet can turn into quite the nuisance, not to mention the waste of water. If you’re grappling with a running toilet, it’s key to nip the issue in the bud, halt the water waste, and avoid potential damage to your plumbing system. This blog post will walk you through the steps to fixing a running toilet in no time.
Got a stinky toilet situation? Here’s why – and how to tackle it.
Step 1: Sleuth out the Problem
Step one to addressing a running toilet is playing detective – identify what’s causing the problem. Most of the time, a running toilet is the result of a dodgy flapper valve or a fill valve that’s not doing its job properly. The flapper valve manages the water flow from the tank to the bowl, while the fill valve keeps the water level in the tank in check.
Step 2: Take a Gander at the Flapper Valve
Start off by lifting the lid of the toilet tank and taking a look at the flapper valve. If the flapper valve seems worn, misshapen, or damaged, it might not be sealing properly, resulting in water leakage. To sort this out, switch off the water supply to the toilet and empty the tank by giving it a flush. Yank out the old flapper valve and pop in a new one. Make sure the new flapper valve is aligned correctly and forms a tight seal when shut.
Step 3: Look Over the Fill Valve
If the flapper valve is all good, the problem might be with the fill valve. Keep an eye out for any signs of leakage or a malfunctioning float mechanism in the fill valve. Tweak the float to ensure it’s bobbing at the right water level, as laid out in the manufacturer’s instructions. If the fill valve is busted or not performing, it might need to be replaced. Give Drain Express a shout for professional help in picking and installing a new fill valve.
Step 4: Clean or Swap Out the Flush Valve Seat
In some cases, a running toilet is due to mineral deposits or gunk buildup on the flush valve seat. To handle this, cut off the water supply and flush the toilet to empty the tank. Give the flush valve seat a good scrub using a sponge or cloth. If the seat is beat or worn out, it might need a replacement to secure a proper seal.
Step 5: Test Drive and Tweak
Once you’ve done the needed repairs or replacements, switch the water supply back on and let the tank fill up. Keep an eye on the toilet for signs of continuous running or leakage. If the problem keeps popping up, you might need to dig a little deeper or call in the pros from Drain Express.
Need a Hand? Contact Drain Express
Fixing a running toilet can be a breeze and can keep you from wasting water and running into potential plumbing hassles. By following this guide, you can pinpoint and deal with the common culprits behind a running toilet. But if you hit a snag or if you’d rather have a pro handle it, don’t hesitate to ring up Drain Express at 203-516-4505. Our squad of experts is on standby to help you sort out the issue and ensure your toilet is running smoothly.