How do i fix my toilet that won’t stop running?

Although your toilet appears to be functioning normally, there are times when the components within the toilet tank will fail. A constant running toilet, low flush volume, and/or slow leak are some examples of when your toilet may require service or replacement.

Repairing your toilet’s tank internally is usually less expensive than replacing the entire unit. Identifying the components located within your toilet tank is crucial to identifying potential problems before they become major concerns and knowing when to contact a professional plumber for assistance.

What are toilet tank components?

Located in the toilet tank are various mechanical components which function to control water flow and flushing.

Typical components included in a toilet tank are:

Fill valve
Flush valve
Flapper
Flush handle and lever
Overflow tube
Gasket from tank to bowl
Refill tube
Float or float cup

Each of these components performs a unique task; therefore, when one fails or is damaged, the overall operation of your toilet can be affected.

Warning Signs indicating your toilet tank components require replacement

one of the most common warning Signs indicating your toilet tank components are failing is a continuously running toilet. If you continually hear water flowing through your toilet when no flushing action has occurred, this indicates that either your flapper, fill valve, or other components may require immediate service.

Additional warning Signs include:

1. The toilet continues running after flushing

A toilet that continues to run after each flush typically indicates a defective flapper or fill valve. Continuous running of the water through the toilet results in wasted water and increased costs due to higher utility bills.

2. The toilet produces a poor flush

Poor flushing may occur due to improper water levels in the tank, a defective or clogged flush valve, or due to mineral build-up within the plumbing system.

3. The tank takes longer than normal to fill

If the tank takes longer than normal to refill after each flush cycle, this typically indicates that the fill valve is restricted, is damaged/worn, or is malfunctioning.

4. You continuously hear intermitent refilling

Do you find yourself hearing the toilet randomly turning on and off for short periods of time even though no user has recently flushed the toilet? This indication typically means that there is continuous small-scale leakage occurring from the tank into the bowl.

5. Water leaks from around the tank

Visible water leaking from around the base of the tank typically indicates a damaged/leaking gasket, loose connections, damaged/leaking components or other types of plumbing issues. Any type of leak should be addressed quickly.

Why replace your internal components?

Replacing worn-out components can offer many advantages. Properly operating toilets consume significantly less water and generally operate much better than those that contain worn-out components.

Some of the advantages that new internal components may provide include:
Stops unnecessary water consumption
Improves flushing efficiency
Reduces constant running of water sounds
Eliminates future tank related problems
Restores ideal water levels in the tank.
Extends the operational lifespan of the toilet.

Many times repairing/replacing individual components is less expensive than purchasing and installing an entirely new toilet.

Should you replace individual components or an entire kit?

The answer depends on what is currently happening to your toilet tank components and how many components have reached their end-of-life.

For example, if only your flapper needs replaced then you would likely just replace the flapper. However, if multiple parts need repaired or replaced at once then replacing an entire toilet repair kit might be advisable.

A professional plumber can inspect your tank and recommend whether replacing individual parts or an entire kit would be best suited to meet your needs.

Why calling a professional will be helpful for your toilet repair

While it may seem like a simple fix to repair your toilet tank, incorrectly adjusting or installing your components may lead to further complications. Incorrectly set up fill valves can allow for excessive water levels in the tank while improperly set up flappers can continue to leak.

Professional plumbing service and repair can ensure all components are properly installed and adjusted. Additionally, a plumber will be able to identify hidden problems such as mineral deposits building up inside your pipes, worn out seals and gaskets, and damaged pipe connections and issues that affect your home’s water supply.

How home owners can avoid toilet problems

Home owners who regularly check their toilets will be able to detect potential problems sooner rather than later.

Keep an ear open for unusual water sounds coming from your toilet. Check for moisture both above and below your tank. If your toilet suddenly starts running after being flushed each time don’t simply ignore it.