Table of Contents
A toilet that cuts on and off by itself, or runs intermittently, has a problem that plumbers call a “phantom flush.” The cause is a very slow leak from the tank into the bowl. This problem is almost certainly caused by a bad flapper or flapper seat.
Why does my toilet randomly run for a few seconds?
Your toilet randomly runs on and off for a few seconds due to a problem called “phantom flush”. This is caused by a slow water leak from the tank into the bowl and is often the result of a sediment build-up on the flapper (aka “flush valve seal”) or a bad flapper seat.
How do you fix a toilet that runs off and on?
If the toilet keeps running or runs intermittently, you’re not getting a good seal. Try a different flapper if the toilet won’t stop running. If you just can’t find a flapper that seals, consider replacing the entire toilet overflow tube/flapper. On most toilets (two-piece), this means removing the tank.
Why does my toilet keep running periodically?
Perhaps the most common reason for a running toilet is an old flapper that needs to be replaced. When flappers get old, they don’t seal the way they should, and this allows water to pass constantly from the toilet tank into the bowl. Tip: If the chain is too long on the new flapper, you may need to shorten it.
Why is my toilet still running after replacing flapper?
The most likely cause is a leaking flush valve. Usually such a leak is around the mouth of the flush valve where the flapper is supposed to make a good seal. Lift the flapper and run your finger around the edge of the opening where water spills through the flush valve and into the bowl.
Why does my toilet run every 15 minutes?
If your toilet keeps refilling at 15-minute intervals, it probably has a leak. In the vast majority of cases, the problem is with the flapper, which is the rubber seal between the tank and the bowl. It should be still, but if the flapper is leaking, you’ll probably see ripples caused by water flowing from the tank.
How do you clean a toilet flapper?
Clean the Flapper Flush the toilet to empty the tank. Don a pair of rubber gloves. Gently lift the flapper and scrub it with an old toothbrush or scouring pad. Scrub the seat assembly as well.
Why does my toilet sound like water is running?
Running noises occur when water leaks out of the tank and into the bowl, and then the tank re-fills with water. The valve in the tank allows water to escape into the bowl. The flapper chain in the tank is too tight and prevents the valve from shutting all the way.
Is a running toilet an emergency?
A toilet that keeps running after its last use may seem like a minor annoyance (as long as it’s not flooding). However, the amount of water a malfunctioning toilet wastes will quickly add up. Even though a running toilet may not seem like an emergency, you need to get the problem fixed as soon as you can.
Why does my toilet make noise every few minutes?
This sound can happen intermittently and occur every few minutes or every few hours. Such a refill sound is usually alerting you that your toilet is losing water, either internally (if there’s no water on the floor or exterior of toilet) or externally leaking if you see water outside the toilet.
Can a running toilet cause damage?
Running Toilets Lead to Damaging Leaks Toilet leaks aren’t just restricted to the tank. Your toilet’s base can also experience leaks that lead to damage that extends beyond your plumbing. Water can easily make its way into the floor of your home, and over time, weaken the structure of your home.
How long does toilet flapper last?
The average toilet flapper lasts about 4 to 5 years. It is important that you replace your toilet flapper when needed to prevent damaging leaks.
How much does it cost to replace a toilet flapper?
Cost of Replacement Parts Part Price DIY Project Time Fill Valve $8 – $30 1 – 2 hours Shut Off Valve $5 – $35 1 – 2 hours Bowl Flush Valve $20 – $30 ½ – 2 hours Flapper $5 – $10 20 – 30 minutes.
Can you put Vaseline on a toilet flapper?
The flapper in the toilet opens and closes to let the water out of the tank. One easy, but temporary fix to make rubber toilet parts supple again is vaseline. The toilet must be drained and dried for this to work. Then, vaseline can be rubbed on the flapper and it’s connecting washer until they become soft.
How do you fix common toilet problems?
The toilet doesn’t flush completely: Make sure there’s not too much slack in the lift chain. Adjust as needed. Check for a proper water level in the tank. Make sure the flapper is installed properly and is the correct size and type for your toilet. Get more information and tips with our video Fix a Weak-Flushing Toilet.
How do I know what flapper to buy for my toilet?
Look at the flush valve drain opening at the bottom of your tank. If the opening looks about the size of a baseball or orange, you need a 2″ flapper. If the opening looks about the size of a softball or grapefruit, you need a 3″ flapper.
Should I be worried about a running toilet?
Beyond the astronomical water bills running toilets have the power to produce, they can also cause damage to the home if water is actually leaking out of the bowl or tank. Toilet leaks can sometimes be very subtle. In some instances, you may not actually hear or see water leaching out of the toilet.
