A toilet that won’t stop running can be more than just a nuisance – it wastes water and drives up your utility bills. The good news? You can often fix the problem yourself. Here’s how to fix a running toilet with a few simple steps:
Check the Flapper
The most common cause of a toilet running is a faulty flapper. This rubber seal controls the release of water from the tank into the bowl – if it’s damaged or not sealing properly, water leaks into the bowl, causing the toilet to run continuously.
How to fix it:
- Turn off the water supply to the toilet.
- Lift the tank lid and inspect the flapper. If it looks worn, replace it with a new one from your local hardware store.
- If the flapper is intact, adjust the chain to ensure it’s not too tight or too loose.
Adjust the Float
Another cause of a toilet running is an improperly adjusted float, which controls the water level in the tank. If the float is set too high, water will continuously flow into the overflow tube.
How to stop toilet running:
- Locate the float inside the tank, which may be either a ball float or a cup float.
- Adjust the float by bending the rod (if you have a ball float) or turning the adjustment screw (for a cup float). Lower it so the water level stays about an inch below the top of the overflow tube.
Inspect the Fill Valve
If the flapper and float are working properly, the issue may lie with the fill valve, which controls the water entering the tank.
How to fix a running toilet by adjusting the fill valve:
- Turn off the water supply.
- Remove the toilet’s tank lid and inspect the fill valve.
- Clean any debris that may be obstructing the valve. If this doesn’t solve the problem, it may be necessary to replace the fill valve.
When to Call a Professional
While many toilet repairs are DIY-friendly, some problems are more complex, especially if the issue persists after following these steps. That’s where Plumbform can help.
Our experienced team of Brisbane-based plumbers is known for providing fast, reliable solutions for all your plumbing needs (including blocked drains, leak detection, gas fitting, roofing and guttering). From a running toilet to a full bathroom renovation, we offer affordable services that save you time and money. When it comes to efficient, expert plumbing, trust Plumbform to get the job done right the first time.
If your toilet is still running despite your best efforts, or you simply don’t have the time for a DIY fix, reach out to Plumbform – we’re here to help.
