A running toilet wastes up to 200 gallons a day and usually needs a $10 to $25 part you can install yourself. Here is the honest version of how to fix it, and the signs it is time to hand it to us.
Put a few drops of food coloring in the tank. If color reaches the bowl within 15 minutes without flushing, the flapper is leaking. That is the cause in most running toilets.
Turn off the supply valve behind the toilet, flush to empty the tank, unhook the old flapper from the pegs and chain, and clip on the new one. San Diego's hard water stiffens flappers early, so do not be surprised if yours is warped at only a few years old.
If water keeps trickling into the overflow tube, adjust the float so the water line sits about an inch below the tube's top. If the valve hisses or will not shut off, replace the fill valve. Kits include instructions and take about 15 minutes.
Leave just a little slack. Too tight holds the flapper open, too loose will not lift it. Flush twice and watch a full cycle before you call it done.
Stop and call us if: the shutoff valve behind the toilet will not turn or is corroded, water is on the floor, the tank is cracked, or the toilet still runs after a new flapper and fill valve. Those point to problems a part swap will not fix, and forcing a seized valve can turn a drip into a flood.
Call and describe it. We will tell you what it likely is, what it usually involves, and how soon we can be there.
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"I've used Paws for multiple things in the condo, from kitchen problems to two toilet installations. By far one of the most honest and up front companies I've used, and the only people I will use for all things plumbing related."
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Tell us what is going on and we will give you a real answer, a real timeframe, and an upfront price.
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