If you’ve noticed that your toilet is constantly running, it may be due to a problem with the toilet flapper. The toilet flapper is a small piece that covers the siphon tube in your toilet tank and controls the water flow during a flush. Over time, the flapper may become damaged or misaligned, causing water to leak into the toilet bowl and potentially increasing your water bill.
While you may be tempted to call a plumber to fix the issue, there are simple steps you can take to resolve the problem yourself. In this article, we’ll provide you with easy-to-follow suggestions for fixing a toilet flapper that won’t close. By following these steps, you can save money and ensure that your toilet is functioning properly.
Toilet Flapper Won’t Close: Reasons and Solutions
Grime around the Toilet Flapper:
If you notice your toilet flapper not closing, mineral deposits and residue may have accumulated around it, causing it to malfunction. Hard water residue may also build up on the flapper, preventing it from closing properly.
Solution:
To fix this issue, check for any gunk around the flapper and wipe it with a clean cloth. Ensure that you have wiped around the flapper accurately as well. You can also use a sponge to remove the gunk from the sealing. It is recommended to empty the tank before cleaning to avoid any mishaps.
Issues with the Hinge:
The flapper hinge controls the opening and closing of the flapper, and it may get loose or develop residue from hard water or other elements over time. The tank may also accumulate residues that could prevent the hinge from closing accurately.
Solution:
If cleaning the grime from the flapper does not work, check the hinge for any residual build-ups. Use a clean sponge to gently remove any residues from the flapper hinge. Additionally, clean the tank interior and its opening to the flapper to help the flapper close accurately and prevent water wastage.
Problems with the Chain:
If the chain of the flapper is kinked or tangled, it may not close properly and hold the flapper open, resulting in water wastage. This is usually the most common reason for the toilet flapper continuing to run even after flushes.
Solution:
Inspect the chain carefully to find the tangled area and squeeze it with mild pressure to get rid of the tangled part and resume its original length. Then, flush the toilet to see if it works.
A Damaged Flapper:
If all the above methods fail, the flapper may be damaged and needs replacement. Due to years of use, the flapper may get rust and corrosion, leading to malfunction.
Solution:
To replace the damaged flapper, empty the tank and shut off the water supply valve. Then, pull off the damaged flapper and check the ring and the flapper. If the sealing is not working, use a flush assembly kit to assemble the mechanism properly. You can find the toilet flapper in almost every hardware, home improvement, or plumbing store.
By following these solutions, you can fix your toilet flapper and prevent water wastage.
Final Words
Fixing a toilet flapper that won’t close is a simple task that doesn’t require any plumbing skills. First, check the chain tangling, sealing, and residual build-up. If the flapper needs to be replaced, don’t worry, it’s relatively inexpensive and can be done in just a few minutes. Remember, you don’t need to panic if water is pouring into the toilet tank.
