How to Fix a Running Toilet

A running toilet is one of the most common plumbing problems homeowners encounter. While it may seem minor, a toilet that runs continuously can waste hundreds of gallons of water each day and significantly increase your water bill.

Fortunately, many running toilet problems are easy to diagnose and fix.

Why Toilets Keep Running

Most running toilets are caused by issues inside the tank.

Common causes include:

• Worn or damaged flapper
• Faulty fill valve
• Improper float height
• Loose or tangled chain
• Mineral buildup in the tank components

Understanding the cause helps determine the correct repair.

Step 1: Remove the Tank Lid

Carefully remove the toilet tank lid and place it somewhere safe. Look inside the tank while the toilet is running to observe how the components are functioning.

Pay attention to whether water continues flowing into the overflow tube.

Step 2: Check the Flapper

The flapper is a rubber valve at the bottom of the tank that seals water inside the tank.

If the flapper is worn, warped, or not sealing properly, water will continuously leak into the bowl.

Fix:

• Turn off the water supply
• Remove the old flapper
• Install a new flapper (usually inexpensive)

This repair solves many running toilet problems.

Step 3: Adjust the Float

The float controls the water level inside the tank.

If the float is set too high, water may flow into the overflow tube and cause the toilet to run constantly.

Fix:

• Adjust the float screw or float arm
• Lower the water level slightly

The water should stop about 1 inch below the overflow tube.

Step 4: Inspect the Fill Valve

The fill valve controls how water enters the tank.

If the valve is worn or clogged with mineral deposits, it may not shut off properly.

Solution:

• Clean the valve
• Replace the fill valve if necessary

Fill valves are inexpensive and widely available at hardware stores.

When to Call a Plumber

Call a plumber if:

• The toilet continues running after replacing parts
• Water leaks from the base of the toilet
• The toilet frequently clogs or backs up

These may indicate deeper plumbing issues.

Final Thoughts

Fixing a running toilet is often a quick and inexpensive repair that most homeowners can handle. Replacing a flapper or adjusting the float can restore normal operation and prevent wasted water.

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Why Your Drain Smells and How to Fix It

A foul smell coming from a sink or drain can make an entire room unpleasant. Drain odors are usually caused by trapped debris, bacteria buildup, or plumbing issues.

Identifying the source of the smell is the first step toward eliminating it.

Common Causes of Drain Odors

Drain smells are often caused by organic buildup.

Typical causes include:

• Food debris in kitchen drains
• Grease buildup
• Hair and soap scum in bathroom drains
• Bacteria growth in pipes
• Dry drain traps

Clean the Drain

Cleaning the drain often removes odor-causing debris.

Steps:

1. Pour boiling water into the drain.
2. Add baking soda followed by vinegar.
3. Let the mixture sit for 20–30 minutes.
4. Flush the drain with hot water.

This method helps break down organic material and neutralize odors.

Check the P-Trap

The P-trap is the curved pipe beneath sinks designed to hold water and block sewer gases from entering the home.

If the sink has not been used for a while, the water inside the trap may evaporate, allowing odors to escape.

Solution:

• Run water for a few seconds to refill the trap.

Clean the Garbage Disposal

Kitchen drain odors often originate from garbage disposals.

Food particles can stick to the inside of the disposal and rot over time.

Cleaning tips:

• Grind ice cubes and citrus peels
• Use baking soda and vinegar
• Flush with hot water

Inspect Vent Pipes

Plumbing systems include vent pipes that release sewer gases outside the home. If these vents become blocked, odors may appear indoors.

Blocked vents may require professional inspection.

Final Thoughts

Most drain odors can be eliminated with simple cleaning and maintenance. Regularly flushing drains with hot water and avoiding grease buildup can help prevent smells from returning.

Need Professional Help?

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