How to Fix a Running Toilet

Is your toilet always running? This maintenance project addresses the following issues: the fill valve runs continuously, or water from the tank continuously flows into the toilet. It should take less than 10 minutes to complete this project, and no tools are required.

Tools Required

However, you will need a replacement flapper.

To begin, turn off the water supply to the toilet, then flush the toilet to drain the tank. Remove the tank cover. If you need to remove more water from the bottom of the tank, use a sponge or towel to absorb the water.

Remove the Flapper

To remove the flapper, first unclip the chain from the trip lever. Take note of the location of the S-hook on the chain so you can replace the hook on the same link on the new flapper.

Also note the flapper bar location in the mounting groove of the flush valve. You’ll want to mount the new flapper in the same groove.

With the chain removed, remove the flapper bar and the old flapper.

Install the New Flapper

Slide the new flapper bar into the same groove that held the old flapper bar, and be sure the prongs are pointed toward the back of the tank. The bar should be centered on the valve and rotated so the prongs are pointing upward.

Attach the flapper arms to the ends of the bar, one at a time, by rotating the ends onto the prongs.

Test the Flapper

Test the flapper to ensure that it moves up and down freely. Reinstall the S-hook to the same location on the flapper chain that you noted when you removed it, and attach the S-hook to the trip lever. The chain should be taut.

Operate the trip lever to ensure the flapper moves properly. Turn on the water supply and observe the flapper as the tank fills.

Flush the toilet to test the operation of the new flapper with the tank cover off, checking for proper alignment of the flapper and proper chain length.

Finally, replace the tank cover, and you’re done.

Order toilet repair kits to fix a running toilet

Affiliate link. We may be compensated.