Running Toilet Repair

Find the shut-off valve, usually located on the wall behind the toilet or near the base. Turn the handle clockwise until it stops to shut off the water supply to the tank.

Hold down the flush lever until most of the water has drained from the tank. This removes excess water, making it easier to work inside the tank.

Lift the toilet tank lid straight up and set it aside on a soft surface to avoid scratching or breaking it. Be mindful of its weight.

Examine the flapper at the bottom of the tank. It should create a watertight seal with the flush valve seat. Look for cracks, hardening, or a distorted shape. Try pressing down on the flapper to see if the water stops filling. If it does, the flapper is likely the culprit.

Unhook the old flapper from the chain attached to the flush lever and detach it from the overflow tube. Install the new flapper by attaching it to the overflow tube and connecting the chain to the flush lever, ensuring proper tension.

Observe the fill valve, which is responsible for refilling the tank after a flush. If the water level is consistently too high and overflowing into the overflow tube, the fill valve may be faulty or improperly adjusted. Check if the float is set too high or if the valve itself is leaking internally.

If the float is set too high, adjust it to the recommended water level line inside the tank. If the fill valve itself is leaking or not shutting off, it will need to be replaced. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for removal and installation of a new fill valve.

The flush valve seat is the surface where the flapper seals. Carefully inspect it for any mineral deposits, debris, or nicks that could prevent a proper seal. Clean the seat gently with a soft cloth or sponge.

Place the toilet tank lid back on. Turn the water supply valve counter-clockwise to restore the water supply. Listen to see if the toilet continues to run. Flush the toilet and observe if the water stops filling at the appropriate level and if there are any leaks.