We certainly want you to call Eco Plumbers, Electricians, and HVAC Technicians when you have a plumbing problem. We always come through for you when you need us to BUT, we also know that there’s a side of Tim the Toolman in many of you. You can DIY that running toilet with a little guidance from an Eco Plumber.
Is a running toilet really that big a deal? A running toilet leads to increased water bills and unnecessary waste. We’ll walk you through this DIY project:
Grab Your Toolbelt
Before you search for the culprit, make sure you have an adjustable wrench, a screwdriver, and a replacement flapper or fill valve (if needed). A towel or sponge is recommended, and a bucket is optional. I’d recommend it.
Where’s the culprit?
There are three common reasons that your toilet is running: Is it a faulty flapper, a malfunctioning fill valve, or a problem with the float?
Don’t Make This Mistake! Locate the water shut-off valve. It’s usually located either behind or beside the toilet. Turn it clockwise to shut off the water supply to the toilet.
Is it the Flapper?
- The flapper is a common culprit in running toilets.
- When the flapper doesn’t create a good seal, water will continuously leak into the bowl.
- Check if the flapper is damaged or warped.
Replace the Flapper
- Replace the flapper if it’s damaged or warped.
- Remove the old flapper and take it to the hardware store to find its match.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install the new flapper.
Maybe It’s the Float?
- The float controls the water level in the tank.
- Make sure that it’s not rubbing against the sides of the tank and is moving freely.
Adjust the Float
- If the float is set too high, the tank will overflow.
- Adjust the float level according to manufacturer’s guidelines.
- The adjustment is usually made by turning a screw or adjusting a clip.
Could it be the Fill Valve?
- Examine the Fill Valve for damage or wear.
- A bad Fill Valve allows water to continuously flow into the tank.
Replace the Fill Valve
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install a new Fill Valve.
You Did It! Now what?
Crank the shut-off valve counterclockwise to turn on the water supply.
Test all Systems!
- Once the water fills to the desired level, flush the toilet, and observe closely.
- Make sure that it fills and stops correctly.
- If everything checks out, congratulations on successfully fixing your running toilet!
Bonus Tips and Troubleshooting
1. If your DIY project didn’t work, don’t hesitate to consult an Eco Plumber to diagnose more complex issues.
2. Periodically check your toilet for leaks and replace any worn-out parts promptly to prevent your toilet from running away in the future.
3. Save on your water bill by using a dual flush converter kit to reduce the amount of water that’s used when flushing.
4. Put a reminder in your phone or a block on the refrigerator calendar to perform regular maintenance on your toilet. Remember, if the project gets too challenging for you, Call the Eco Plumbers, Electricians, and HVAC Technicians because we will come through for you when you need us to. Contact us today!
