Quck answer
To fix a toilet that randomly runs, follow these steps:
1. Check the flapper valve: Ensure it is properly sealing the flush valve. If it’s worn or damaged, replace it.
2. Adjust the water level: Adjust the float arm or the fill valve to set the water level at the correct height.
3. Clean the fill valve: Remove any debris or sediment that may be causing the valve to malfunction.
4. Inspect the chain: Make sure the chain connecting the flush lever and the flapper valve has enough slack.
5. Check for leaks: Look for any leaks around the base of the toilet or in the internal components.
6. Call a professional: If the issue persists or you’re unsure how to proceed, it’s advisable to call a plumber.
Does your toilet appear to have a mind of its own? Random flushes that occur when the toilet is not in use are the result of “phantom flushing.” It’s not supernatural spirits playing tricks on your toilet, but it does indicate that something is not quite right with the internal mechanisms of your toilet. To prevent water waste and eliminate the annoying sounds, troubleshoot your toilet to determine if you need to adjust the fill valve or replace a component.
What is Phantom Flushing?
Phantom flushing refers to the occurrence of spontaneous refilling at unpredictable times, rather than an actual flush. This happens because the toilet tank is losing water, and it refills when the water level drops. One common cause is a faulty toilet flapper, which may allow water to slowly trickle into the bowl if it does not seal tightly. Your tank may also lose water if there is a problem with the fill valve. Many of the issues that cause phantom flushing can be resolved by replacing simple parts that are relatively easy to install on your own.
Testing for Leaks
An easy way to determine if your toilet flapper is leaking is to add a few drops of dark-colored food dye into the water in your toilet tank. Do not use or flush the toilet. After about 15 minutes, check the toilet bowl for any traces of the food dye. If you see the coloring in the bowl, it confirms that the flapper is faulty and needs to be replaced.
Fixing the Flapper
If you discover that your toilet is leaking, replacing the toilet flapper can help resolve the issue. A replacement flapper is inexpensive and simple to install. Make sure to get the same size and type of flapper as the one you are replacing to ensure a tight seal. If you are unsure of what to buy, you can take your old flapper to the hardware store for assistance in finding a suitable replacement.
To remove the old flapper, shut off the water supply to the toilet using the shutoff valve located below the tank. Flush the toilet to empty the tank as much as possible. With the water supply turned off, the tank will not refill after flushing. Taking a picture of the internal mechanisms will make it easier to correctly position the new flapper.
Disconnect the flapper chain from the flush lever and remove the old flapper from the pegs. Clean the area where the flapper sits so that the new flapper can create a tight seal. Slide the new flapper onto the pegs and reconnect the chain to the flush lever. Turn the water supply back on and test the flapper.
Adjusting the Float
If the flapper is not the issue, the fill valve is the other likely cause. The tube in your toilet tank is the overflow tube. If the float is adjusted correctly, the water level should stop about 1 inch below the top of the tube. You can adjust the float if the water level is not correct. The method of adjustment depends on the type of fill valve you have.
Some models have an adjustment screw to change the water level, while others have a clip that you pinch to release and slide. You may need to experiment with different positions to achieve the correct water level.
Replacing the Fill Valve
If making adjustments to the float does not resolve the problem, it may be necessary to replace the fill valve or the refill tube. In order to replace it, you will need to first turn off the water supply and drain the tank. The fill valve is located at the bottom of the tank and is connected to the supply line. It is held in place by a lock nut. To remove the old fill valve, you will need to disconnect the supply line. After that, you can install the new fill valve, turn the water supply back on, and test the functionality of the new fill valve.
