How do you fix a toilet that keeps running?
I'll answer
Earn 20 gold coins for an accepted answer.20
Earn 20 gold coins for an accepted answer.
40more
40more
Oliver Cooper
Works at IBM, Lives in Austin. Graduated from University of Texas at Austin with a degree in Computer Science.
Hello there, I'm a home improvement specialist with years of experience in fixing household issues, including those pesky toilets that just won't stop running. It's a common problem but fortunately, it's usually quite easy to fix. Let's dive into the steps you can take to resolve this issue.
Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply
Before you start working on the toilet, it's crucial to turn off the water supply to prevent any accidents. Locate the shut-off valve, which is typically found behind or near the toilet on the wall or floor. Turn it clockwise to close it.
Step 2: Empty the Tank
Once the water supply is off, flush the toilet to empty the tank. This will make it easier to work on the internal components without water spilling everywhere.
Step 3: Inspect the Fill Valve
The fill valve is a crucial component that controls the water level in the tank. If your toilet is running continuously, it's likely that the water level is too high. The fill valve might be sending water into the overflow tube, which is not supposed to happen.
Step 4: Adjust the Water Level
To adjust the water level, you'll need to modify the float attached to the fill valve. The float is what tells the fill valve when to stop filling the tank. Here's how to do it:
- Locate the Float: The float is usually connected to a rod that goes down into the tank. It can be a ball, a cup, or a plastic float.
- Adjust the Float: The fill valve often has a clip or screw at the top that holds the float in place. Loosen this clip or screw to adjust the height of the float. You want to set it so that the water level stops about 1 inch below the top of the overflow tube.
Step 5: Check the Flapper
While you're at it, inspect the flapper as well. The flapper creates a seal within the tank that prevents water from constantly flowing into the bowl. If it's worn out or not sealing properly, it can cause the toilet to run.
Step 6: Replace Parts if Necessary
If the flapper is damaged or the fill valve is not functioning correctly, you may need to replace these parts. It's a good idea to have replacements on hand, as they are relatively inexpensive and can save you a lot of water and money in the long run.
Step 7: Test the Toilet
After making adjustments or replacements, turn the water supply back on and let the tank fill. Flush the toilet a few times to see if the issue is resolved. The toilet should stop running after a few flushes, indicating that the water level is correct and the flapper is sealing properly.
Step 8: Monitor Water Usage
Keep an eye on your water bill after fixing the toilet. A significant drop in water usage can be an indicator that your adjustments were successful.
Remember, if you're not comfortable doing these repairs yourself, it's always best to call a professional plumber. But for many, fixing a running toilet is a simple DIY project that can save a lot of water and money.
Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply
Before you start working on the toilet, it's crucial to turn off the water supply to prevent any accidents. Locate the shut-off valve, which is typically found behind or near the toilet on the wall or floor. Turn it clockwise to close it.
Step 2: Empty the Tank
Once the water supply is off, flush the toilet to empty the tank. This will make it easier to work on the internal components without water spilling everywhere.
Step 3: Inspect the Fill Valve
The fill valve is a crucial component that controls the water level in the tank. If your toilet is running continuously, it's likely that the water level is too high. The fill valve might be sending water into the overflow tube, which is not supposed to happen.
Step 4: Adjust the Water Level
To adjust the water level, you'll need to modify the float attached to the fill valve. The float is what tells the fill valve when to stop filling the tank. Here's how to do it:
- Locate the Float: The float is usually connected to a rod that goes down into the tank. It can be a ball, a cup, or a plastic float.
- Adjust the Float: The fill valve often has a clip or screw at the top that holds the float in place. Loosen this clip or screw to adjust the height of the float. You want to set it so that the water level stops about 1 inch below the top of the overflow tube.
Step 5: Check the Flapper
While you're at it, inspect the flapper as well. The flapper creates a seal within the tank that prevents water from constantly flowing into the bowl. If it's worn out or not sealing properly, it can cause the toilet to run.
Step 6: Replace Parts if Necessary
If the flapper is damaged or the fill valve is not functioning correctly, you may need to replace these parts. It's a good idea to have replacements on hand, as they are relatively inexpensive and can save you a lot of water and money in the long run.
Step 7: Test the Toilet
After making adjustments or replacements, turn the water supply back on and let the tank fill. Flush the toilet a few times to see if the issue is resolved. The toilet should stop running after a few flushes, indicating that the water level is correct and the flapper is sealing properly.
Step 8: Monitor Water Usage
Keep an eye on your water bill after fixing the toilet. A significant drop in water usage can be an indicator that your adjustments were successful.
Remember, if you're not comfortable doing these repairs yourself, it's always best to call a professional plumber. But for many, fixing a running toilet is a simple DIY project that can save a lot of water and money.
2024-05-19 20:25:43
reply(1)
Helpful(1122)
Helpful
Helpful(2)
Works at the International Criminal Court, Lives in The Hague, Netherlands.
If water is constantly running into the overflow tube in the toilet tank, the fill valve in the tank needs to be adjusted. To adjust the water level in the tank: Turn the screw on top of the fill valve* to adjust the float in the tank so the toilet stops filling approximately 1-- below the top of the overflow tube.
2023-06-11 13:17:29
Zoe Martin
QuesHub.com delivers expert answers and knowledge to you.
If water is constantly running into the overflow tube in the toilet tank, the fill valve in the tank needs to be adjusted. To adjust the water level in the tank: Turn the screw on top of the fill valve* to adjust the float in the tank so the toilet stops filling approximately 1-- below the top of the overflow tube.
