Tired of the constant sound of water running in your bathroom? Don’t worry — fix a running toilet is easier than you think. With just a few tools and a little patience, you can stop the leak and save money on your water bill — without needing a plumber!
🧰 Tools You’ll Need:
- Adjustable wrench
- Screwdriver
- Replacement flapper or fill valve (if needed)
- Towel or sponge
👉 Also Read: How to Replace a Broken Light Switch Safely
🚽 How to Fix a Running Toilet: Step-by-Step Guide
🔍 Step 1: Identify the Problem
A toilet usually runs due to one of these three reasons:
- 🚫 Flapper isn’t sealing properly
- 💧 Fill valve is malfunctioning
- 🔗 Chain is too tight or too loose
Lift the tank lid and observe what’s happening when you flush. This will tell you where the issue lies.
🛠 Step 2: Adjust or Replace the Flapper
The flapper is the rubber seal at the bottom of the tank. If it’s worn out or misaligned, water keeps leaking into the bowl.
✅ Try adjusting it
✅ If it looks warped or old, replace it (they’re cheap and easy to install)
🔧 Step 3: Check the Chain
Make sure the chain connecting the flush handle to the flapper is:
- Not too loose (flapper won’t lift)
- Not too tight (flapper can’t close)
Adjust the length by removing a few links if needed.
🚿 Step 4: Inspect the Fill Valve
If your toilet keeps filling even when the flapper is fine, the fill valve might be the issue.
🔄 Try adjusting the float
🛠 Still leaking? Replace the fill valve — they’re inexpensive and installable in under 10 minutes.
💡 Bonus Tip: Turn Off the Water
Before replacing anything, always turn off the water supply valve behind the toilet and flush once to empty the tank.
✅ When to Call a Plumber
If you’ve tried all the above and the toilet is still running, it could be a more serious issue like a cracked tank or faulty flush valve assembly. That’s when a pro is worth the call.
👉 Also Read: Guide to DIY & Home Repair: Fix Your Home Like a Pro
🔚 Conclusion
You don’t need to be a plumber to fix a running toilet. With the right steps and a few basic tools, you can silence the leak and save water and money.
Next time your toilet starts acting up — you’ll know what to do! 💪