A running toilet is not only annoying, but it can also waste a lot of water and increase your utility bill. Fortunately, fixing a running toilet is a simple DIY task that can save you time and money. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of fixing a running toilet with step-by-step instructions.
Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply
The first step in fixing a running toilet is to turn off the water supply to the toilet. Look for the shut-off valve, which is usually located behind the toilet. Turn the valve clockwise to shut off the water supply.
Step 2: Remove the Tank Lid
Next, remove the tank lid by lifting it off the tank. Be careful not to drop the lid or damage it.
Step 3: Check the Flapper
The flapper is a rubber valve at the bottom of the tank that controls the flow of water into the bowl. Check the flapper for any signs of wear or damage. If the flapper is worn or damaged, it may not be sealing properly, causing water to leak from the tank into the bowl.
To check if the flapper is the cause of the problem, add a few drops of food coloring to the tank water. Wait a few minutes and check the bowl for any traces of color. If there is color in the bowl, it means that the flapper is not sealing properly and needs to be replaced.
Step 4: Replace the Flapper
To replace the flapper, first, turn off the water supply to the toilet. Then, remove the old flapper by disconnecting it from the chain and pulling it off the pegs. Take the old flapper to a hardware store to find a replacement that matches the size and shape.
Install the new flapper by connecting it to the chain and sliding it onto the pegs. Adjust the chain so that there is a small amount of slack, but not enough to get caught under the flapper.
Step 5: Adjust the Float
The float is a small plastic or metal ball that regulates the water level in the tank. If the float is set too high, the tank will overfill and the excess water will flow into the overflow tube, causing the toilet to run. To adjust the float, follow these steps:
- Lift the float arm to raise the float.
- Look for a small screw or clip on the float arm.
- Adjust the screw or clip to lower the float to the desired level.
- Flush the toilet to test the water level.
Step 6: Check the Fill Valve
If the flapper and float are working properly and the toilet is still running, the fill valve may be the cause of the problem. The fill valve is responsible for refilling the tank after each flush. Check the fill valve for any signs of wear or damage.
To test the fill valve, flush the toilet and listen for the sound of water running. If you hear water running after the flush, the fill valve may be leaking and needs to be replaced.
Step 7: Replace the Fill Valve
To replace the fill valve, first, turn off the water supply to the toilet. Then, flush the toilet to drain the tank. Use a sponge or towel to remove any remaining water from the tank.
Disconnect the water supply line from the bottom of the tank and remove the old fill valve. Take the old fill valve to a hardware store to find a replacement that matches the size and shape.
Install the new fill valve by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Reconnect the water supply line and turn on the water supply to the toilet. Flush the toilet to test the new fill valve.