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Running Toilet

Asked by MForman

In Plumbing

Posted Feb 24, 2008

My toilet often does not flush, and it makes a loud running water sound about once every half hour. It has never overflown. Is this something I can fix on my own. I once had this problem at another apartment and the landlord was able to fix it quickly- I believe he said it required a new part. Any suggestions? Thanks

3 answers Mar 1, 2008 12:18:19 PM

By masterplumber Water Works Plumbing , posted Mar 1, 2008 12:18:19 PM:


From what you have described, it sounds like you have a worn-out flapper valve. Your local hardware store or plumbing supply carry flapper valves on the shelf for most toilets. If you have a rare toilet you may need a plumbers help. The flapper repair is quite easy... just pull the old flapper off and slip the new one on into its place. Anoter problem could be the chain or handle. Pull off the top and do a little investigative work before you go to the store. All of the above are easy fixes for someone who is "handy". Otherwise call you local plumber.

By garyb The Handyman , posted Feb 29, 2008 2:46:31 PM:


It could be as simple as replacing "the flapper" inside the tank. The part is available at your local hardware store for around $3 to 5 dollars.
Just slip off the old "flapper" and attach the new one.

By bdc , posted Feb 28, 2008 12:14:18 AM:


I had a similar problem myself. The outlet from tank was not sealing so the water level did not rise. This would explain the running watter sound since the water going into the tank is immediately going down into the toilet and down the drain. Because there is no water filing the tank, pushing the handle to flush does not have any water to release from the tank into the bowl.

One time the chain had simply come off from the handle and was caught in the exit from the tank to the bowl. I simply could pull it out and reattach and then the tank worked fine.

Another time the part that sealed the exit from the tank broke. I tried to get a replacement part from my local hardware store but it was hard to find a part that would work in my older Kohl toilet. I ended up finding a plumber that listed experience working with Kohl toilets and they were able to get the right part and fix it very quickly. Haven't had any problems since.