Running toilets are more than just noisy; they waste valuable water and increase your water bill, potentially wasting up to 20,000 litres annually (WSAA, 2019). Common causes of a running toilet include malfunctioning flapper valves, improperly set fill valves, or worn parts.
Simple Solutions:
**Flapper Valve:**
Ensure the flapper valve seals correctly by adjusting or replacing it (Home Handyman, 2020).
**Fill Valve:**
Adjust fill valves to prevent overflow into the bowl (DIY Doctor, 2019).
**Worn Parts:** Replace rubber gaskets and float balls with new ones.
DIY vs Professional Help: Although some issues can be resolved independently, complex problems may necessitate professional intervention (Realestate.com.au, 2021).
Preventing Future Running Toilets: Regularly inspect toilets for signs of leaks or worn parts, invest in high-quality components, and follow maintenance guidelines such as cleaning mineral buildup from fill valves and checking for tank or bowl cracks (Bunnings Warehouse, 2019).
FAQs:
1. How long does it take to fix a running toilet? – Depending on the issue’s complexity, simple repairs can be completed within minutes.
2. What causes a toilet to run continuously? – Continuous running is typically caused by flapper valve, fill valve, or worn part malfunctions.
3. How do I know if my toilet is leaking? – Place food colouring in the tank; if water in the bowl changes colour within 20 minutes without flushing, there’s a leak.
