How To Fix A Running Toilet, Part 2

Before breaking out the hand tools and hip rubber boots, take a moment to cover the basics. Often times the solution is simple, easy-to-fix and completely free for a DIY home plumber.

If you haven’t read How To Fix A Running Toilet, Part 1 yet, it’s worth a look. It explains just how costly an unfixed running toilet can be. Read Part 1 here.

Step One: Jiggle the handle.

This might seem basic, but don’t underestimate how many times this solves the problem. Granted this is usually just a quick fix and merely a case of fixing the symptom rather than the problem, there are cases when a toilet will randomly run even if every part is in perfect working order.

If this solves the problem, congrats! But keep a mental note of the toilet’s performance. Even though perfectly fine toilets will randomly run here and there, frequent running is likely a sign of a further problem.

Step Two: Check the tank.

Take the lid off the toilet tank and take a look inside. Sometimes debris of some sort is preventing the flapper from completely closing. This is a common problem for those who use in-tank toilet cleaning products that gradually disintegrate over time. These have a tendency to move around, and sometimes end up causing problems with the flapper.

Sometimes excess slack in the chain can interfere with the flapper valve, too.

Even if the flapper appears to be properly seated, give it a quick ‘feel test.’ With the valve down, run your finger along the flapper seal (in a circular motion). While doing this, pay attention to any areas that seem to be leaking. You should feel a small vacuum effect as your finger covers up a leaky spot.

Step Three: Flush the toilet.

Give the toilet a quick flush. Watch the flapper – does it open completely? If not, its hinge might have worn out. Check the opening, is any debris present? If so, remove it. Even if there isn’t enough water in the tank for a complete flush, opening the flapper often reveals many easy fixes.

No dice? Continue on to Part 3.