So, you flush the toilet and walk away. But it keeps running for several minutes later. In some cases, the sound of water stops automatically. Other times, it continues until you jiggle the handle or flush again.
You are dealing with a leaky toilet. This means something is wrong with its internal components. Here is what may be wrong:
Table of Contents
The flapper is not sealing well
The flapper is a rubber piece that regulates the opening between the tank and bowl inside the tank. It rises during flushing and should fall back in afterward.
The flapper might be worn out or warped. Or maybe it has mineral deposits on it. This means it no longer forms a proper seal. Water will then trickle into the bowl. Consequently, the tank will refill over and over.
This is probably one of the first things a technician will check when performing toilet leak repairs.
The float could be sitting too high
The float regulates the water shutoff when the tank is filling. When set incorrectly, the tank can fill to a level so high it runs over the intended level.
As a result, your toilet seems to have finished flushing. But you still hear the water flowing. You may want to check the seal.
The exact mechanism varies by toilet brand. So consult the manufacturer’s directions before making any changes.
The fill valve may be worn out
This component allows fresh water into the tank after flushing. As it ages, it may not be reliable.
An old valve might not seal properly. You may end up with a toilet that keeps filling. A hissing sound may also be heard from the tank.
Sometimes, the problem can be solved by replacing the fill valve. But if the other components in the flushing mechanism are also in poor condition, it may be worthwhile to evaluate the entire flushing mechanism.
The flush handle or chain may be to blame
Not all running toilets are caused by complicated issues. If the flapper doesn’t close properly, it could be because of a:
- Loose handle
- Tangled chain
- A chain that isn’t oriented properly.
Look inside the tank quickly while the toilet is running. If the chain looks like it is caught or the flapper is just a little open, you may have found the source.
However, do not pull or force any parts as older plastics and rubbers can break easily.
The final word
An occasional toilet leak is harmless. But if it’s not addressed, it can constantly drain water. If you experience this problem, engage a plumbing technician. They can determine whether to replace an individual component or if the toilet itself has developed a more significant fault.