DIY Plumbing: How to Stop a Running Toilet

An overflowing toilet is a common occurrence in many homes. It can also become a major issue if it persists and you don’t locate the source of the problem. This problem can be easy to correct if you know how to locate it and troubleshoot it yourself. Here are some quick fixes you can try on your overflowing toilet.

Locate The Source Of Your Problem

The first thing you should do is determine the source of your leak. Your toilet can overflow from a wide variety of problems, such as broken flappers, a poorly adjusted fill height, or a poorly adjusted flush handle or flapper chain. This can help you figure out what you need to do next and assure you if you can fix the problem on your own. Some of these problems can be done by yourself, while others may require a professional.

Replace The Flapper

Is the flapper old and no longer working? It could be that your flapper is worn-out and no longer effective. Remove the flapper from your toilet and bring it with you to the hardware store to get a replacement. You may want to get a universal flapper that works with just about any toilet.

Look For Mineral Buildup

Minerals can buildup in your toilet, causing serious problems like flooding. Look inside of your toilet for any mineral buildup. If you notice any residue or hard buildup, it’s time to come a professional to solve this problem. A plumber will flush out your toilet’s system, which is a time-consuming and costly process.

Replace Water-Clogged Floats

Water-clogged floats could be the source of your toilet woes. If the water is trapped inside your float, it can sit lower, causing your float valve to only partially open. Unscrew your float and shake it around, listening for water. Determine if the float valve is clogged or not. Replace the float with one at your local hardware store if it has water inside of it.

Check The Water Levels

The water valve ensures that your toilet doesn’t overflow and cause a flooding. If your float is too high, then some water will leak into the overflow tube and into your toilet bowl. This causes the water in your toilet tank to be too low and can cause constant refills. You can correct this problem by adjusting your float yourself. Keep in mind that most toilets have two kinds of floats — ball floats and ball valves. Your hardware can help you find the correct float for your toilet.

Hire A Plumber

There’s nothing wrong with getting a second opinion or additional help. There are some instances when you’ll need to call a professional. A certified plumber will help you determine the source of the problem and the appropriate solution. Hiring the right plumber can also save you money on costly mistakes. In the serious event of a flooding, call a professional immediately to correct the problem.

You may need pliers and rubber gloves for some of the suggestions listed above. These jobs are relatively simple and can be performed by yourself. In the event of something serious, however, you should always hire a professional plumber to help you get the job done. Remember, if you need a professional plumber to help you stop your running toilet, the experts here at Scott English Plumbing are available 24/7 to give you a helping hand!