Common Toilet Problems and How to Fix Them
Most toilet problems have one of five causes. Here's how to diagnose them.
The constantly running toilet
Almost always a worn flapper. Lift the tank lid, watch the flapper after a flush — if water keeps trickling past it, replace it (a cheap part, 10-minute job). If the flapper is good, suspect a worn fill valve.
Weak flush
Mineral build-up in the rim jets. Use a small mirror under the rim to confirm. Clean with a wire and white vinegar. If that doesn't work, check the flapper chain length — too long and it doesn't fully open.
Ghost flushing
The toilet refills itself randomly. Same cause as constant running — flapper isn't sealing perfectly, water level slowly drops, fill valve kicks on to refill.
Leaking at the base
Wax seal failure. This needs a plumber — pull the toilet, replace the seal, often replace the bolts and check the flange. Water leaking at the base is also damaging your subfloor every day you wait.
FAQ
Should I replace or repair a 20-year-old toilet?
Newer low-flow toilets save real money on water bills. If yours is pre-1996, replacement pays back fast.
Need a pro for this?
Call Stonegate Plumber Milton 24/7 at (289) 514-9214.