If you can hear the toilet constantly running, it’s possible that the issue is with the flapper. You can incur a substantial water bill if you don’t address this issue. After learning to diagnose the problem, you will also learn how to replace a toilet flapper. Before we begin troubleshooting, we need to start with the basics.
What Is a Toilet Flapper?
The flapper is the component within the toilet tank that closes the outlet to the bowl. When you flush the toilet, the mechanism lifts the flapper, which allows water to flow into the bowl for flushing. The flapper returns to place, sealing the outlet closed, and the toilet tank fills back up with water.
Do I Need to Replace the Flapper?
Just because your toilet is running doesn’t mean you have to replace the flapper. It could be the fill valve. The flapper is a cheaper part, and it’s an easier replacement, so it makes sense to start there. You may not need to replace it at all. There might be something obstructing the seal. Feel around the edges to check for any imperfections in the seal. Sometimes there is too much slack in the chain, and it gets lodged under the seal. If you tighten the chain length, the problem is solved.
“Before replacing a toilet flapper, always inspect the seal for debris or chain interference. In many cases, adjusting the chain length or cleaning the sealing surface resolves the issue without needing a new part.” — Excerpt from a universal flapper installation guide, Fluidmaster
If the flapper is cracked or corroded and needs to be replaced, then it’s no big deal. Any DIY novice can get the job done.
Fixing a Broken Flapper in 7 Steps
Here is the process for how to change a flapper (universal):
- buy a new flapper
- Close the shut-off valve.
- Drain the tank by flushing it and soak up any excess water with a sponge.
- Remove the existing flapper. Disconnect the chain from the flush lever. The most common setup involves the flapper being attached to pegs. Slip the flapper off the pegs. It’s also possible that it’s attached to the overflow tube. Or if it’s not a rubber flapper, but it’s made of plastic, then you might be dealing with clips.
- Clean the area as needed.
- Install it by reversing the process outlined in steps 4 and 3. If your new flapper has a ring for attaching to the overflow tube, but you choose to attach the new flapper to pegs instead, then cut off the ring before installation.
- Turn the water back on and listen as it fills the tank completely and then stops. Success!
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Related Resources:
Changing a Fill Valve in 10 Steps
Adjusting a Toilet Float Valve
How to Replace a Toilet Flange
Fix a Toilet Tank Leak
Wikipedia: Toilet
About the Author
Cliff is a proud Dad and already a Grandpa, if you can believe it! He likes to lift weights, play basketball, hunt, and do just about anything outside. He has been in the construction and plumbing business off and on since 1989 and has tons of experience in many areas of home improvement.
