Is your constantly running toilet driving you crazy? Is your commode crying out for help with strange bumps and gurgles? These annoying, but essential bathroom repairs can be easier to do than you think. Check out our how to's and instructions for simple bathroom repairs below:
How to repair a noisy, running toilet-
Tools:
- Adjustable wrench or pliers
- Small disposable drinking cup
- Sponge or paper towels
- Flap valve chain
- Flap valve float assembly
Does your cranky commode drone on and on, after you flush? The problem can be due to one of two issues- either a leaking flap valve or an overflow tube problem.
Leaking Flap Valve Repair -
This occurs when water leaks through the hole located underneath the flap valve on the bottom of the tank. This usually occurs because the valve is not sealed properly. The rubber valve can deteriorate as a result of being in water for several years. Furthermore, the deteriorated rubber valve allows water to leak out of the tank and into the bowl.
Step 1
Put the toilet seat lid and seat up. Remove the lid from the back of the toilet. Push down on the flap valve. The flap valve is on the inside, bottom of the tank, attaching to the end of the chain. It looks similar to a sink plug and is usually made of rubber or hard plastic. If the water stops filling the bowl, you may need to replace the flap valve.
Step 2 - Testing the flap valve chain and hinges.
The flap valve chain connects the flush handle arm to the flap valve. Check to see if the chain is twisted or is caught on the flush handle arm. If so, this will cause the chain to shorten which in turn causes the flap valve to seal improperly.
Untangle the chain and flush the toilet a few times to see if this remedies the problem. Also ensure that the chain is securely attached to the flap valve's metal or rubber loop which is on top of the flap valve.
Check the flap valve hinges to make sure they're securely attached to the posts (located at the bottom of the overflow tube), so the flap valve will move freely. If the flap valve still does not seal, you'll need to install a new flap valve. Here's how:
How to Install a Toilet Flap Valve
Step 1
Locate the water shut-off valve. It's below the tank, usually attached to the bathroom wall. Turn the valve clockwise to shut off the water to the toilet. Additionally, flush the toilet to remove water from the tank.
Step 2
Remove the worn flap valve:
- First remove the chain from the top of the flap valve
- Next, disconnect the flap valve's hinges from the posts
- Finally, pull the old flap valve from the tank
Step 3
Install a new flap valve:
- Attach the chain to the new flap valve
- Then attach it to the hinge, seating the flap valve in place
- Next, attach the chain to the flush handle arm.
- Lastly, turn on the water to refill the tank
Water Draining into the Overflow Tube
When you flush your toilet, water empties from the tank into the bowl, then the tank fills with water again. If the adjustable float isn't calibrated, the tank will overfill. Water will also flow over the top of the overflow tube and into the toilet bowl.
Furthermore, if you see water flowing over the top of the tube, this means the adjustable float is not working properly. The peak tank water level should be approximately 1/2 inch below the top of the overflow tube.
Step 1
Adjust the float by increasing the rod length where it connects the float to the arm. If this adjustment doesn't stop the water level below the top of the overflow tube, then replace the float assembly.
Step 2
Turn the shut-off valve handle to the right to shut off the water to the tank. Flush the toilet to remove the tank water. In addition, if any water remains, scoop it out with a small disposable drinking cup. Finally, soak up any remaining water inside the tank with a clean sponge or paper towels.
Step 3
To remove the old float assembly, unscrew the supply line from the bottom of the tank by turning it counter clockwise with pliers. Loosen the retaining nut on the fill valve until it pulls free from the pipe threads. Detach the float arm from the overflow tube. Lastly, remove the worn float assembly.
Step 4- New Float Assembly Installation
Clip the float arm to the overflow tube. Also secure the retaining nut on the underside of the tank. This secures the bottom of the float assembly. Turn the water back on and then adjust the float to achieve the ideal water depth.
When to Call a Professional Plumber:
Handy homeowners can fix a wide range of common bathroom repairs. It's fairly simple to fix a slow draining tub or changing out a worn washer, but how do you know when it's time get help from a knowledgeable professional?
For bigger bathroom repairs such as a leaking toilet or water heater, backed-up drain, or full-blown plumbing emergency, it's best to contact a licensed professional plumber.
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