A toilet that won’t stop running probably needs a new flapper valve.
When you flush the toilet, the flapper valve opens to let water rush into the bowl. When it closes, it creates a seal to keep the water securely in the tank until the next flush.
Because the flapper valve is rubber, it doesn’t last forever. Rubber can decompose, warp and harden, all problems that prevent it from forming a sturdy seal, so your toilet runs.
To replace the seal:
- Shut off the water to the toilet.
- Pull the valve out of the clips hat hold it in place, and take it to the hardware store so you can buy the right kind of replacement. The new one will cost around $5.
- Snap the new valve back into the clips, making sure it’s sealed tight. Clip the new valve chain to the trip arm.
- Turn the water back on and test the valve. If the water still runs, readjust the flapper so the seal is airtight.
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