Is your toilet running non-stop? Not only can it be annoying, but it also wastes a lot of water (and money!). Often, the fix is as simple as replacing the flapper—a task most homeowners can handle themselves in under 10 minutes! Here’s your complete DIY guide from Aqua Knight Plumbing on changing a toilet flapper to stop that endless running. Plus, we’ll share when it might be best to give us a call for professional help.
Why a Faulty Flapper Leads to a Running Toilet
The flapper is a rubber piece at the bottom of your toilet tank that creates a seal, keeping water in the tank until you flush. Over time, this flapper can warp, crack, or wear out, letting water leak into the toilet bowl and causing the constant “running” sound. Changing it is easy and can save you from rising water bills.
DIY Guide: Changing Your Toilet Flapper
Here’s a step-by-step guide to swapping out that old flapper and stopping your toilet from running.
Step 1: Gather Supplies
You’ll need:
- A replacement flapper (make sure to match it with your toilet model)
- Gloves (optional but handy for this task)
- Towel (to catch any drips)
Step 2: Shut Off the Water Supply
- Locate the water shut-off valve behind the toilet.
- Turn the valve clockwise to stop water flow to the toilet tank.
Step 3: Empty the Tank
- Flush the toilet to drain most of the water from the tank.
- Hold the handle down to get as much water out as possible. Use a towel if there’s any residual water in the tank.
Step 4: Remove the Old Flapper
- Carefully lift off the tank lid and set it aside.
- Find the flapper at the bottom of the tank. It’s attached to the overflow tube and the flush lever chain.
- Unhook the flapper’s arms from the pegs on the overflow tube, then detach the chain from the flush handle.
Step 5: Install the New Flapper
- Hook the arms of the new flapper onto the pegs on the overflow tube.
- Reattach the chain to the flush handle lever, leaving a little slack (about half an inch) so the flapper can lift and close fully.
Step 6: Turn the Water Back On and Test
- Turn the water back on by rotating the shut-off valve counterclockwise.
- Let the tank fill, then flush to test the new flapper. It should lift and seal properly, stopping the toilet from running once the tank refills.
When to Call Aqua Knight Plumbing
If you’ve followed these steps and your toilet is still running, the problem might go beyond a worn-out flapper. Here’s when it’s best to bring in the pros:
- Persistent Running: If the toilet keeps running after changing the flapper, there could be an issue with the fill valve, flush valve seat, or another component.
- Unusual Sounds: Gurgling or whistling sounds could indicate a problem with the water supply or fill valve.
- Leak Detection: If you notice water around the base of the toilet or in unexpected areas, it could indicate a leak that requires immediate attention.
At Aqua Knight Plumbing, we’re here to help with any toilet repairs and more. Just give Katie a call at 630-755-0583, and our team will be ready to tackle any plumbing challenge. Whether it’s a leaky toilet, a stubborn clog, or a complex installation, we’ve got you covered!