How to Handle Toilet Flapper Troubleshooting in Your Bathroom

Does your toilet seem to flush itself? Does it make trickling noises or constantly run? If so, you’re needlessly wasting water. Fix the leak with these toilet flapper troubleshooting tips.

Check the Flapper

Remove the toilet tank lid. Find the flapper, a rubber device covering the flush valve seat at the bottom of the tank that’s attached to the flush handle via a thin metal or plastic chain. Make sure the chain is long enough to permit the flapper to close fully, but not too long that it catches under the flapper. Flush the toilet and watch the flapper. It should lift completely off the valve seat, allowing water to rush out. At the end of the flush cycle, it should sit squarely on the opening and block all water flow. If water leaks through, continue the toilet flapper troubleshooting process.

Clean the Flapper

Mineral buildup could be causing the poor seal. Before cleaning the flapper and valve seat, shut off water to the tank by turning the wall-mounted handle behind it. Flush the toilet to empty the tank. Don a pair of rubber gloves. Gently lift the flapper and scrub it with an old toothbrush or scouring pad. Scrub the seat assembly as well. Turn the water back on and test your work.

Replace the Flapper

If cleaning doesn’t fix the leak or the flapper is physically damaged, you need to replace it. Shut the water back off, drain the tank and unhook the flapper from the chain. Take the old flapper to the hardware store to ensure you pick a correct replacement. Fit the new flapper in place, reattach the chain, turn the water back on and test the replacement.

If the toilet still leaks after performing these toilet flapper troubleshooting tips, contact a professional plumber at Sobieski Services, Inc. for more help.

Our goal is to help our customers in Delaware, Pennsylvania, Maryland and New Jersey learn more about energy and home comfort issues – especially HVAC and plumbing issues – so that they can save money and live in healthier, more comfortable homes.

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