Running Toilet Woes: Understanding the Causes of a Push Button Toilet

A persistent running toilet can be an annoying and costly problem. If your push button toilet has become a constant source of frustration, it’s time to delve into the underlying causes and find a solution. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the common reasons why your toilet may be running incessantly and provide step-by-step instructions to help you resolve the issue.

Possible Causes

1. Faulty Flapper Valve

The flapper valve is a rubber seal that sits at the bottom of the tank. When you press the flush button, the flapper valve lifts, allowing water to flow into the bowl. When the tank is full, the flapper valve drops back down, stopping the water flow. A worn or damaged flapper valve can fail to seal properly, causing a constant stream of water to leak into the bowl.

2. Leaky Fill Valve

The fill valve is responsible for filling the tank with water after each flush. A faulty fill valve can allow water to continuously flow into the tank, even when the tank is full. This can lead to an overflowing toilet or a constantly running toilet.

3. Clogged Overflow Tube

The overflow tube is a small tube located at the top of the tank. Its purpose is to prevent water from overflowing the tank in case the fill valve fails. If the overflow tube becomes clogged, water can back up into the bowl and cause the toilet to run continuously.

4. Worn Out Flush Valve Gasket

The flush valve gasket is a rubber seal that sits between the flush valve and the tank. When you press the flush button, the flush valve opens, allowing water to flow into the bowl. A worn or damaged flush valve gasket can fail to seal properly, causing a leak that can keep the toilet running.

5. Incorrect Float Adjustment

The float is a device that controls the water level in the tank. When the water level drops, the float lowers, opening the fill valve to fill the tank. When the water level rises, the float rises, closing the fill valve. If the float is incorrectly adjusted, it may not be able to close the fill valve completely, resulting in a constant flow of water into the tank.

6. Debris or Mineral Buildup

Debris or mineral buildup can interfere with the proper functioning of the toilet’s components, such as the flapper valve or the fill valve. This can prevent the toilet from sealing properly or from filling correctly, leading to a running toilet.

Troubleshooting and Repair

1. Inspect and Replace the Flapper Valve

• Remove the flush valve cover and check the flapper valve for any tears, cracks, or warping.
• If the flapper valve is damaged, replace it with a new one.

2. Adjust or Replace the Fill Valve

• Check the water level in the tank. The water level should be about 1 inch below the top of the overflow tube.
• If the water level is too high, adjust the fill valve by turning the adjustment screw clockwise to lower the water level.
• If the fill valve is leaking, replace it with a new one.

3. Clean the Overflow Tube

• Remove the tank lid and locate the overflow tube.
• Check for any clogs or debris blocking the tube.
• Use a small wire or brush to clear any clogs.

4. Replace the Flush Valve Gasket

• Remove the flush valve assembly from the tank.
• Inspect the flush valve gasket for any damage or wear.
• If the gasket is damaged, replace it with a new one.

5. Adjust the Float

• Locate the float and adjust its position so that the water level in the tank is about 1 inch below the top of the overflow tube.
• If the float is not adjustable, replace it with a new one.

6. Clean and Remove Debris

• Inspect the toilet components for any debris or mineral buildup.
• Clean any debris or buildup using a toilet brush or a mild cleaning solution.

Wrapping Up

By following these steps, you can effectively diagnose and repair a running push button toilet. If you encounter any difficulties or the problem persists, it’s recommended to contact a licensed plumber for professional assistance.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: Why does my toilet keep running after I flush it?
A: This could be due to a faulty flapper valve that fails to seal properly after flushing.

Q: How can I tell if my fill valve is leaking?
A: Check if the water level in the tank continues to rise even after the tank is full.

Q: What is the purpose of the overflow tube?
A: The overflow tube prevents the tank from overflowing by allowing excess water to drain out.

Q: Why does my toilet run intermittently?
A: Intermittent running can be caused by debris or mineral buildup interfering with the toilet’s components.

Q: How much does it cost to fix a running toilet?
A: The cost of fixing a running toilet can vary depending on the cause of the problem and the complexity of the repair.