An unpredictable-running toilet can waste water and drive up your bill, typically due to worn-out flappers or fill valves.
Fixing this problem is easy. Simply follow these three simple steps and reduce your water usage quickly:
Water Pressure Issues
Consistent water pressure across your home can have serious repercussions for toilet functionality and may result in random running of the toilet, as well as cause other serious problems requiring immediate attention, like supply line issues, clogs or leakage problems.
A constantly running toilet can often be traced back to a defective flapper that doesn't seal correctly, such as when its chain becomes jammed, warped, or worn out - easily remedied by turning off all water sources, taking appropriate action (i.e. shutting off), removing and installing a new flapper.
One common cause is a fill valve that has become clogged with sediment over time, restricting water flow and producing an audible hissing noise that indicates your toilet is constantly running. You can repair this by replacing the fill valve - though in more extreme cases it might be best to replace your tank itself - though a professional plumber should probably handle these steps on your behalf. This process should be fairly simple for most homeowners, although if any questions arise or the issue still persists after following these steps alone then professional assistance might be necessary.
Tank Damage
Locating and treating the cause of random toilet running is critical for eliminating water wastage and restoring proper functionality. Common causes for such behavior may include defective fill valves, float or flapper issues, improper water levels and cracked/damaged tanks.
An Ocala plumbing expert would likely agree that having a toilet that constantly runs or emits "phantom flush" wastes water and utilities bills while being extremely frustrating. Luckily, most causes for an ever-running toilet aren't as serious as they appear and often can be addressed through some simple troubleshooting and DIY fixes at home that often prove more effective than calling in professional help. We will explore three of the most likely culprits behind its constant running in this guide; these might provide solutions before needing professional services in Ocala.
Incorrect Water Level
An intermittently running toilet can be both annoying and wasteful of water resources - leading to higher bills for you and wasting gallons. But most often the solution can be quick and simple; don't panic by flushing repeatedly or calling out professional plumbers; try fixing it yourself instead!
One of the primary causes for a toilet that keeps running randomly is due to a worn-out flapper seal. This rubber seal contains water until you press down on its handle to flush, but over time can wear down, allowing water through if it becomes warped or covered in grime.
Misplaced or malfunctioning fill valves could also be to blame, as their purpose is to refill the tank after each flush; however, if set too high your toilet may continue running continuously. To solve this, check whether your overflow tube has an adjustment screw and turn it down to decrease the height of its float.
Faulty Fill Valve
Your toilet may be running randomly due to an issue in one of its components - usually related to its flapper or fill valve not operating as designed.
Once the water in a tank runs low, its floater or other mechanism should trigger the fill valve to replenish it from the supply line. Once full, however, it should close automatically; but if its defective then this won't occur and your tank will continue refilling and leading to random toilet running and an increased water usage bill.
First, ensure there is no water left in the tank by flushing several times and placing towels or plastic containers underneath the shutoff valve to collect any spilled-over liquid. Next, unthread the supply line by using pliers or other tools to unscrew its nut; finally unscrew and uncap the fill valve cap before proceeding further with this task.
