Fix a Running Toilet

The most common cause of a running toilet is a faulty flapper or fill valve. Follow these steps for the quickest solution, then consider long-term fixes.

Quick Fix: Adjusting the Float

1. Shut off water supply to the toilet.
2. Lift the tank lid and locate the float arm. It's a rod attached to the fill valve that rises when the tank is full.
3. Adjust the float so it sits just below the overflow tube, but not touching it. This prevents excess water from flowing into the bowl.

Systematic Fix: Replacing the Flapper

1. Turn off the water supply and flush the toilet to drain the tank.
2. Remove the old flapper by lifting the chain and pulling it out of the valve seat. Clean the seat with a soft brush if necessary.
3. Install a new flapper, making sure it fits snugly in the valve seat. Reattach the chain securely to the flapper.

Advanced Fix: Replacing the Fill Valve

1. If the flapper is not the issue, replace the fill valve. Turn off water supply and drain tank as before.
2. Disconnect the old fill valve from the water line and remove it. Install a new one in its place, ensuring proper alignment with the overflow tube.

Pro tip: Use a level to ensure the new flapper or fill valve is properly aligned for optimal performance.