A toilet that runs intermittently, even when no one is using it, is what plumbers call ghost or phantom flushing. Ghost flushing is more than just an inconvenience. It can waste 200 gallons or more of water a day and significantly increase your bill. Let’s consider the steps to overcome this wasteful and expensive problem.
Disable the Water: Toilet Shut-Off Valve
You can stop a toilet from phantom flushing by disabling its water supply. Most modern toilets have a shut-off valve located near the water supply pipe. It will generally be a handle on the left side of the toilet near the floor. To disable the water, hand tighten it all the way to the right.
Disable the Water: Main Shut-Off Valve
If you don’t have a toilet shut-off valve or it’s broken, you can turn the main shut-off instead. This will get the job done but won’t be as convenient since it will disable water throughout your home. The main shut-off is usually located near where the water main enters the home. That can be under the kitchen sink, near the water heater, or in a basement or crawl space. If you don’t have an interior valve, there should be a covered shut-off valve in the yard near the road.
Adjust the Water Level
If a toilet constantly runs, the water level may be too high. The water level shouldn’t be so high that water naturally flows into the overflow tube. You can adjust the float in the tank to lower the water level. If you have a damaged float, you’ll need a plumber to replace it.
Check the Flapper
The flapper is by far the most common culprit of ghost flushing. This is the component that creates the seal in the tank. When you use the handle to flush, you lift the flapper and break the seal. It’s possible to have a misaligned flapper that simply needs adjustment.
If you have hard water, the flapper may have limescale buildup preventing a tight seal. Cleaning the flapper will usually do the trick. More often than not, the flapper has changed shape over time due to cracks and becoming brittle. A plumber can replace the flapper or the entire tank assembly.
Review the Handle and Chain
It’s possible for the chain between the handle and the flapper to cause the problem. This will occur when the chain is too tight. Ensure that you haven’t set the chain too short or that it hasn’t somehow become tangled.
Examine the Fill Valve
If the valve is malfunctioning, it may let water continue to flow into the tank. That will cause repeated flushing over time. The fill valve may be stuck open, which you can fix with a simple adjustment. In some cases, there may be scale that you need to clean. If you have a damaged fill valve, it’s generally best to have a plumber replace the entire assembly.
Inspect the Tank
Check around the toilet base and tank for any signs of leakage. Even minor leakage will result in phantom flushes. In some cases, you may just need to tighten a nut or replace a washer. If there are hairline fractures in the tank, it’s usually best to replace the toilet.
Other Potential Issues
Although less common, there can be problems with the flush valve or rod. The rod can, for instance, prevent the flapper from creating a tight seal. Another potential issue is low water pressure, which can result in a loose seal as well.
Call a Plumber
If you’re not able to correct a running toilet quickly and easily, it’s usually best to call a plumber. A plumber will have all the parts specific to your model, and you won’t have to worry about buying the right “universal” kit. Replacing worn parts piecemeal is an option. That said, tank assemblies are relatively inexpensive. Replacing it all at once will likely save you money down the line.
Trusted Toilet Repair & Replacement in Northeast Ohio
Located in Cleveland Heights, OH, Verne & Ellsworth Hann is a plumbing company that has served the region since 1952. We employ licensed plumbers who repair and replace toilets. Our company also offers a wide selection of top-rated toilets, including high-efficiency models. Call today or contact us online to schedule a toilet repair or replacement appointment.
