Why Sometimes Jiggling the Handle Sometimes Fixes Running Toilets

South End Plumbing, Heating, & Air Expert Tips

why Jiggling the handle stops running toilets
why Jiggling the handle stops running toilets

Why Jiggling the Handles Sometimes Fixes Running Toilets

It is unavoidable that everyone has to deal with a running toilet at some point in their life. Most of the time individuals simply jiggle the handle to stop it, but as reliable as that appears it doesn’t repair the underlying problem. The “jiggle the handle” fix might even stop working; at this point your toilet take a turn for the worse and will be on a constant run until repaired. If this goes unchecked, this will add your water bill and cause your family a big headache and a huge bill.

Fortunately, toilets have not altered much in the last 80 years or so, and fixing a running toilet is a fairly basic thing if you understand what to look for. The key is to discover the reason why your toilet is running and repair the issue appropriately.

Chain Problems

The most typical cause of a running toilet has to do with the chain the handle to the flapper, the cover that lifts to enable water in the tank to drain into the toilet bowl. If it gets twisted, it will continuously pull on the flapper even when the handle isn’t being utilized. This is likewise why wiggling the handle often repairs a running toilet; it shakes the chain and untwists it.

If wiggling of the handle stops working, your problem might be a damaged chain. This is a simple fix. All need to do is buy a new aluminum ball chain from a hardware store. Make certain to change the clip that connects the manage to the chain so that it will constantly raise the flapper when you need it to.

Flapper Issues

If the chain is the correct length and isn’t broken, your running toilet might be due to a distorted or broken flapper. The flapper needs to form a tight seal to keep water in your toilet’s tank, however it can warp and even break at the hinge. If this holds true, you will have to buy a replacement flapper from a hardware shop. Flappers are inexpensive and simple to install, so this is an easy fix.

A toilet will often run if the flapper is unclean. If this holds true, merely get rid of the flapper and clean it off. Look it over and eliminate any grime or mineral deposits that can form if you have difficult water. Take care not to harm the rubber on the flapper or you will have to make a journey to the hardware shop.

Bending Toilet Float Down
Bending Toilet Float Down

Poor Float Position

When you flush your toilet, water is supposed to fill the tank till it reaches the overflow pipe and then stop. The reason that it stops is because of the float that is attached to the tank valve. The overflow pipe will keep your tank from in fact over running, however a poor float position will keep your toilet running till it is fixed. The most basic way to fix is to bend the rod that connects the float to the pump up until the float stops at a proper level. You must be able to flex the rod easily with your bare hands, but a set of pliers might be required if the rod is too stubborn.

These are the most common reasons for a running toilet, and they can all be repaired fairly easily. As always, never ever be reluctant to call South End Plumbing if you feel uneasy attempting to repair any plumbing issue. It’s always best to have a professional look at your toilet or pipelines prior to you do something that does excessive damage to your home. We will be more than delighted to come out and take a look at your running toilet. Give us a call at 704-919-1722 if you run into these common drain issues.

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