Fix A Running Toilet
Please fix that running toilet! Does this sound familiar?
Toilet leaks can waste up to 2 gallons of water per minute? That’s close to 7000 gallons of water in a month.
To fix a running toilet, you will need to take the top of the tank off in the water tank and check to see if the chain is connected to the flapper and if it is the chain is the right length. If the chain is too short it will prevent the flap from sealing properly, and a chain that is too long will often get in the way of the flapper sealing. Also check the handle attached to the chain. If the handle is loose or rusted out, you should tighten or replace it.
If the handle and chain are okay, most likely you need to replace the flap assembly in your toilet tank.
Before you begin to work on your toilet, turn off the water by turning the valve on the wall behind your toilet clockwise. After you have turned off the water, flush your toilet once to empty the tank.
Next remove the flap assembly from inside the toilet tank and take it to your local hardware store. They should be able to help you find a replacement.
Bring the flap assembly home and install it in your toilet tank. Turn the water valve back on and you check if the leak still persists.
If you still have a leak it is time to call in a plumber!
