How do you fix a toilet that runs every so often?

If the toilet keeps running or runs intermittently, you're not getting a good seal. Try a different flapper if the toilet won't stop running. If you just can't find a flapper that seals, consider replacing the entire toilet overflow tube/flapper. On most toilets (two-piece), this means removing the tank.

Why does my toilet run every so often?

Among the most common causes for a running toilet is overflow water leaking down into the bowl from the tank via the overflow tube. This happens when there's too much water in the tank. You can adjust the water level by adjusting the height of the float.

Why does my new toilet randomly run for a few seconds?

Most commonly, something is preventing the flapper from closing completely. Therefore, it is always letting a small amount of water out of the bowl. Then, once the toilet tank is empty, the fill valve is triggered, and it refills the tank. That's what you hear when your toilet runs for a few seconds—the tank refilling.

What is the most common problem that occurs when the toilet won't stop running?

Lowering the Float Valve

Among the most common problems for a running toilet is caused by a fill valve issue. This is when the water level is too high and water spills out of the top tank and into the overflow tube then down into the toilet bowl. This happens when there is excess water in the top tank.

What is the most common cause of a running toilet?

The most common cause behind a running toilet is by far a broken toilet flapper. Also known as the flush valve, this plug holds water inside the tank until you use the toilet's handle to flush the toilet bowl. Unfortunately, flappers wear down over time, causing water to seep slowly into the bowl.

How to Fix A Running Toilet GUARANTEED | DIY Plumbing Repair

Why does my new toilet randomly run?

If a toilet randomly runs for a few seconds and empties without flushing, it's likely the result of a cracked toilet flapper, the chain being caught, the float needing to be lowered, or the refilling tube needing to be repositioned.

Why does my toilet make a running noise every few minutes?

Running noises occur when water leaks out of the tank and into the bowl, and then the tank re-fills with water. These noises should cease as soon as the tank is finished filling.

How much does it cost to fix a toilet flapper?

When you flush the toilet, the flapper opens to allow water to flow from the tank into the bowl. The flapper, over time, can become loose or damaged, and it will need to be replaced. The total average cost of this repair is also between $70 and $200.

How much does it cost to fix a toilet that keeps running?

A toilet that won't stop running is another common problem. You can expect to pay between $50 and $400 to repair a running water issue. If there is too much water in your tank, it will be a quick, easy fix and may be possible to do at home.

How do you know if the flapper needs to be replaced?

Replacing a Worn-Out Toilet Flapper

To test your flapper's performance, put a few drops of food coloring into the tank water. Don't flush the toilet. If after 30 minutes you find colored water in the toilet bowl, replace the flapper yourself or call a plumber to do the job for you.

What happens if you don't replace toilet flapper?

However, over time a flapper will eventually corrode, crack, and start to leak. A leaking flapper allows water to leak into the bowl of your toilet, which is wasteful, and can waste hundreds of gallons of water per year if not fixed.

Can you replace a toilet flapper yourself?

However, the tradeoff is they corrode over time and will generally need to be replaced about every two years or so. There's more good news: you can replace a toilet flapper yourself! They cost just a few dollars at your local hardware store, and require no specialized tools or training to replace it.

Why won't my toilet stop making noise after I flush?

Hearing a running water noise usually means the tank is constantly filling. This sound might indicate a leak within the tank, resulting from a few different causes. A running water noise when flushing the toilet might mean there is water leaking from the tank into the bowl.

Why does it sound like water is constantly running?

The water running could come from a toilet issue, water heater leak, or even a worn gasket. Let's take a look below at the best way to determine what that water running noise is from. A slow leak from your faucet.

Why does my Kohler toilet run periodically?

When your Kohler toilet randomly runs or phantom flushes, the cause is a leak in the toilet's tank that is allowing water to flow into the bowl in between flushes.

Should I be worried about a running toilet?

Leaking toilets are more than just an annoyance—they waste water which leads to higher water bills. The next time you hear the unmistakable sound of a running toilet, it's a sign of a leak in need of immediate repair.

How do I know if my toilet flapper is broken?

How often do you need to change a toilet flapper?

While toilet flappers are normally pretty durable, they can wear out over time. The average toilet flapper lasts about 4 to 5 years. It is important that you replace your toilet flapper when needed to prevent damaging leaks.

How do I know what flapper to buy for my toilet?

To identify what size is needed measure the width of the flapper from end to end. If the flapper measures 3 inches across select a 2 inch flapper (like the 502 Fluidmaster model) if the flapper measures 4 inches across select a 3 inch flapper (like the 5403 Fluidmaster model).

How do I know if my toilet needs a 2 or 3 flapper?

How much does it cost to replace a flapper and fill valve?

According to Fixr, the average toilet valve repair cost is between $75 and $200 to replace a flush valve or up to $400 to fix a constantly running toilet. This includes the cost of the plumber's time for the toilet repair and the cost of the toilet parts.

How do you rejuvenate a toilet flapper?

Gently lift the flapper and scrub it with an old toothbrush or scouring pad. Scrub the seat assembly as well. Turn the water back on and test your work. If cleaning doesn't fix the leak or the flapper is physically damaged, you need to replace it.

Should I call a plumber for a running toilet?

A broken float will cause water to continue to flow. The problem might be inside the ballcock itself, and this is a case where it's best to leave the job to a plumber. If you cannot diagnose the problem yourself from looking over the tank, don't try to tamper with the mechanisms, as you could cause new problems.