Is Your Toilet Running? Better Go Catch It!

8/4/2021 (Permalink)

The toilet is one of those domestic things that we take for granted the most. We use it every day, and it typically works properly, but when it doesn’t, it throws your entire day into disarray. We’ve all had the experience of flushing and refilling the toilet, but it just won’t stop running. Not only is the running sound irritating, but it also wastes water and is bad for the toilet.

Before calling in a restoration company to guarantee your bathrooms are completely dried and deodorized after an overflow, there are numerous parts you can check. Here are five reasons why a toilet runs:

1. The Flapper Chain: A common cause of a running toilet is the flapper change. The seal will not be able to close correctly if the chain is too long or short.
2. The Toilet Handle: If the toilet handle does not push up immediately, the seal will stay up longer as well. A rusted or outdated handle usually causes this.
3. The Overflow Valve: The overflow valve protects the toilet tank from overflowing. The valve will continue to supply water to the bowl even if it malfunctions. When the bowl becomes too full, it will flush automatically.
4. The Fill Valve: The fill valve is less likely to leak than the above reasons, but don’t dismiss it because it could happen. The tank will not be able to tell when it is full because of this.
5. The Flapper Seal: The most common cause of a running toilet is the flapper seal. The seal will not be able to halt the flow of water into the tank if it is rusted or does not fit properly.

If you have a toilet that won’t stop running, don’t wait for the problem to get bigger than you. Catching the problem early on can mean the difference between easy repair and expensive damage. If you do end up with an overflowing toilet, you can count on the experts at SERVPRO of Petaluma/Rohnert Park/Santa Rosa to make it “Like it never even happened.” We’re available 24/7, 365 days a year, to answer your questions and help return your home to normalcy.