How Homeowners Can Prevent a Running Toilet
Most people remember the gingerbread man story from their childhoods. “Run, run as fast as you can. You can’t catch me I'm the gingerbread man!” But in a race, it would be hard to tell who would win: the gingerbread man or a running toilet.
Though it’s entertaining to make this bet in theory, a running toilet is no joke. It can be a serious plumbing problem for many homeowners and can cost a lot of money to have repaired. It’s important for homeowners to understand what causes a running toilet, proper ways to fix it, and how it can be prevented in the future.
4 Causes of Running Toilets
There are many components of the toilet, and each has a role in making sure the toilet is functioning properly. However, if one component starts to malfunction, get misaligned, or becomes worn out over time, then the toilet can start to run.
A malfunctioning flapper is one of the biggest causes of a running toilet. The role of the flapper is to seal off the tank after the toilet is flushed, which prevents the water from leaking into the bowl. When the flapper ages, is misaligned or develops mineral deposits, it will experience a difficult time making a complete, proper seal, so the toilet will start to run continuously.
Issues with the float ball can also be the cause of running toilets. The ball rises with the water as the tank starts to fill and stops the water from filling after a certain point. When this component is malfunctioning, it stops the flapper from closing completely so the toilet will continue to run.
Another common cause of running toilets is the refill tube. This tube is responsible for replenishing the water in the tank and should always remain above the water level. When it doesn’t, then the toilet will start to run. A fourth cause is a worn out gasket. The gasket acts as a seal between the tank and the toilet bowl. When it experiences too much wear and tear, additional water can leak into the bowl, causing it to run.
Properly Fixing a Running Toilet
The fix for a running toilet all depends on what’s causing it. In some cases, a running toilet can be fixed by a homeowner with a little bit of troubleshooting.However, this type of DIY fix often ends up being just a temporary solution. The best way to implement a long-term solution is by hiring a professional plumber to fix the problem.
An experienced professional can easily identify the problem and determine the best solution. This may involve something as simple as a minor adjustment for a component that’s loose or misaligned. However, if the problem is more severe, it will likely involve replacing the malfunctioning parts.
How to Prevent Running Toilets
Running toilets are hard to catch, so it’s best to prevent them from getting away! Preventative maintenance is the best thing a homeowner can do to prevent a running toilet. Take off the cover to the tank and examine the components.
Is everything working correctly when the toilet is flushed? Make sure the flapper seals properly and the fill valve stops at the right level. Checking these things about every six months can help prevent a running toilet.
About All Clear Plumbing
All Clear Plumbing is a local, family-owned and operated business proudly providing heating and plumbing services in Belleville, NJ. Homeowners know them for their attention to detail and friendly customer service.
