If the toilet keeps running or runs intermittently, you're not getting a good seal. Try a different flapper if the toilet won't stop running. If you just can't find a flapper that seals, consider replacing the entire toilet overflow tube/flapper. On most toilets (two-piece), this means removing the tank.
A toilet that cuts on and off by itself, or runs intermittently, has a problem that plumbers call a "phantom flush." The cause is a very slow leak from the tank into the bowl. This problem is almost certainly caused by a bad flapper or flapper seat.
No need to worry, a running toilet is usually a simple fix. The three most common causes are a broken or dirty flapper, too long or too short of a chain between the flush lever and the flapper or a float that is out of position.
A running toilet is typically caused by the overflow tube, flush valve, or fill valve. Check the water in the tank to determine if it is running into the overflow tube. If the water is running into the overflow tube, the water level might be too high or the overflow tube might be too short for the toilet.
A hissing sound means that the refill valve is still allowing a little bit of water into the tank because it has not shut off like it is actually designed to. So, when you hear your toilet hissing, take the lid off your toilet tank immediately.
Will a running toilet stop eventually? As fresh water enters the tank, a mechanism eventually shuts off the water flow and the toilet will stop running. However, when things go wrong with the valve, flapper or overflow then it's best to get it sorted.
The three potential causes of a slow flushing toilet are low water level in your tank, a clog in the toilet or a pipe leading out of it, or even a buildup of calcium and other hard minerals.
If you've tried replacing the toilet flapper but the toilet still runs, the flush valve seat is probably rough or pitted. You can replace the entire flush toilet flapper valve, but it's a big job.
When a toilet has a clog made of water-soluble materials, it has a chance of slowly dissolving in the water and freeing up the toilet to work properly again. So, clogs that are primarily made of toilet paper can clear themselves.
One and only one Drano product
There is only one Drano® product recommended for use in slow-running toilets: Drano® Max Build-Up Remover. It contains microorganisms that break down organic matter in pipes that can slow water flow.
For preventive drain cleaning, you can use Drano® Max Build-Up Remover in drains, toilets and even septic systems. Apply Drano® Max Build-Up Remover overnight or before you go to work, then wait 6 to 8 hours before running warm (not hot) water down treated drains or flushing treated toilets.
Most commonly, something is preventing the flapper from closing completely. Therefore, it is always letting a small amount of water out of the bowl. Then, once the toilet tank is empty, the fill valve is triggered, and it refills the tank. That's what you hear when your toilet runs for a few seconds—the tank refilling.
A constantly running toilet is typically due to an issue with the flush valve assembly, so one of the first parts to inspect should be the chain and flapper. If the chain is too short, then it won't allow the flapper to close properly, but if it is too long it may get trapped underneath the flapper, causing it to leak.
Depending on the water pressure to your house, a running toilet can leak over one gallon of water per hour. This is almost one unit of water a month. If left undiscovered, a running toilet can waste almost 13 units of water a year.
Inspect flapper for visible damage/debris: Wipe flapper and surface area of flush valve clean. Replace flapper if this does not resolve toilet running. If you are unsure which size of flapper you need, please click here: Determine size of toilet flapper.
While toilet flappers are normally pretty durable, they can wear out over time. The average toilet flapper lasts about 4 to 5 years. It is important that you replace your toilet flapper when needed to prevent damaging leaks.
Not literally, of course – but your water bill will skyrocket if your toilet is constantly running. More often than not, continuously running toilets are extremely easy and inexpensive to fix – you might just need to replace the flapper. A constantly running toilet also presents an increased risk of flooding.
Baking soda and vinegar, when mixed together, can form a chemical reaction that looks sort of like an eruption. This chemical reaction can help clear your toilet and any pipe clogs that you might have.
Slowly pour in 1 cup of vinegar (white or apple cider) and the solution will begin to fizz. Let sit for 20 minutes, then flush down the toilet.. Check that the toilet is once again draining normally. If the toilet is still not draining, you can repeat this process a few more times, or let the solution sit overnight.
If your drain is clogged with hair, baking soda can dissolve hair in a drain. To try this safe and easy method at home - first, pour a cup of baking soda down the drain. Then pour a cup of vinegar (white vinegar) down. Allow the mixture to sit for several minutes.
Experts agree: Drano Max Gel is the best overall drain cleaner because it works quickly to get rid of tough clogs. This reliable and effective cleaner is a thick gel that goes deep in sinks, pipes, and drains to reach the source of the clog and completely dissolve it.
Most plumbers will charge a flat rate for a drain snake, which will likely average between $75 and $500. When it comes to simpler clogs, expect to pay no more than $150, while more extensive blockages that require dismantling the toilet's plumbing could cost between $150 and $500.
Liquid drain cleaners are really meant to be used on kitchen and toilet sinks, shower and floor drains, and tub drains. They are not effective when used on toilets because toilets have a different inside configuration.