Catching A Running Toilet

The sight of a homeowner running down the street with an extra-large butterfly net in hot pursuit of a running toilet is not a common sight-hopefully. That kind of situation is only imaginable in post-apocalyptic universes where a running toilet is not just a...running joke.

In reality, a running toilet is not actually “running”, but consuming water constantly. It is a scary thought for many homeowners because it is a real problem that requires a real solution. If the problem is not taken care of right away, the damage can be significant,

That damage mentioned is to the homeowner’s wallet. A constantly running toilet can cost the homeowner a considerable amount of money. It can add up quickly, even if the problem has only recently materialized. Not to worry, however, the article below will share the information needed to keep this “running joke” from becoming a nightmare.

Why A Toilet Continues To Run

After the toilet is flushed, the water from the tank will be forced into the bowl to remove the wastewater. At the same time, freshwater is filling up in the tank for the next flush. When a toilet is running, the freshwater being fed into the tank does not know when to stop. Therefore, it keeps running.

There are five different reasons why a toilet runs:

• The Flapper Chain: This is a common culprit of a running toilet. If the chain is too long or too short, then the seal will not be able to close properly.
• The Toilet Handle: If the handle of the toilet does not push back up right away, it is allowing the seal to also stay up longer. This is typically due to an older or corroded handle.
• The Overflow Valve: The overflow prevents the toilet tank from overflowing. If there is a malfunction in the valve, it will continue to feed water to the bowl. The bowl will automatically flush when it gets too full.
• The Fill Valve: Less likely than some of the other options, but the fill valve can develop a leak. This will prevent the tank from knowing when it’s full.
• The Flapper Seal: This is the most common reason for a running toilet. If the seal is corroded or not fitting properly, it will not be able to stop the flow of water from entering the tank.

Regardless of the reason, it is important to have the problem taken care of right away, otherwise, money is being consumed as quickly as the water.

How To Stop A Running Toilet

Determining why a toilet is leaking is a matter of eliminating the possibilities, this will help you stop the running toilet. For example, a plumber will start by checking the most common problems like checking the flapper seal and chain. They will also give the handle a flush to make sure it is not the issue.

If these three concerns are not causing the problem, the other two will be checked. Regardless, fixing the issue is typically easy and painless. A new chain, seal, overflow, and refill valve can be replaced quickly. A handle is also a simple repair as long as it’s not a custom handle.

There are also rare circumstances when the five possible causes are not at fault, and the issue lies within the toilet itself. If that is the case, a new toilet may be required. Luckily, this can also be accomplished by a professional quickly with little inconvenience to the homeowner.

Preventing Your Toilet For Running

As mentioned, a running toilet can cost the homeowner a lot of money. In one year, a toilet that consistently runs can cost up to $1,000 in increased water bills and up to 6,000 gallons of water. This is why fixing the problem is better done sooner rather than later.

Preventing the issue from happening in the first place is a matter of vigilance. The inner workings of a toilet (things like the chain, seal, etc) should last a minimum of three years. The toilet itself, including the handle, should last considerably longer.

Remembering to have these parts replaced when they are reaching the end of their lifespan is key. Also, if there is an issue, a quick fix is to turn the water to the toilet off after each use to stem the flow. Typically, the shut-off valve is located right behind the toilet.

Vern Kummers Plumbing, Inc.

Vern Kummers Plumbing, Inc. offers trusted bathroom plumbing services in Green Bay, WI. They have been assisting customers with water heater repairs, drain cleaning, and toilet replacement since 1976. With quality service and top-notch workmanship, Vern Kummers are the plumbers to trust.

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