Don’t Ignore A Running Toilet

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The correct way of doing things is to run to the toilet, and not to have a running toilet. A functional toilet a basic necessity for decent sanitation. Without regular maintenance, a toilet can stop working properly and waste a lot of water and cost a lot of money.

A running toilet is not an issue that should be ignored. Instead, you should give it the attention that it deserves – before it’s too late.

Why Do Toilets Run?

A running toilet is a sign of an internal water leak. The mechanics of a toilet are precise and calculated. With more modern toilets, these calculations are even more specific to reduce wasting water. If a toilet starts running, it’s a sign that something is wrong.

There are several reasons that this could happen, and here are a few of them.

• The flapper is leaking and unable to serve its purpose of draining water from the tank into the bowl after flushing
• There’s too much water in the tank and the floater is sitting too high
• The refill tube is too long and incorrectly positioned, consistently pumping water into the bowl

Signs of a Running Toilet

One of the most obvious signs of a running toilet is the annoying sound that it makes. There are other signs that your plumbing problem is, in fact, a running toilet.

For example, if the toilet tank’s float ball doesn’t rise to the correct place when filling up. Another sign that something could be wrong is if the chain is too long and gets caught under the flapper. The flapper itself could be decayed or have cracks which could lead to a running toilet.

If you notice any of these signs, then it’s time to call a professional. Our team at Art Plumbing, Air Conditioning & Electric are experienced in effectively fixing all your plumbing problems – including a running toilet!

Risks of Not Fixing a Running Toilet

Did you know that flushing the toilet is one of the biggest water users in the home? Older toilets can use up to 7 gallons per flush, with modern low-flow toilets using as little as 1.6 gallons. Considering that the average person flushes the toilet approximately five times a day, that’s a lot of water!

Any of the above issues could cause your toilet to run constantly, adding to the high amount of water that is already being used. Not only is this frustrating as the consistent dripping gets very frustrating, but it also wastes a lot of water. In some instances, this can mean that hundreds of gallons of water are wasted on a daily basis.

When you ignore the leak, you run the risk of an elevated water bill. This is bad for the environment as well as your wallet.

Prevent a Running Toilet

When you think of doing home maintenance, you probably consider maintaining your AC and electrical appliances. Not many people plan for plumbing maintenance. However, a little bit of care can go a long way in saving money and water.

There are a few habits to include on a daily basis that will help to keep your toilet in tip-top shape.

• Clean your toilet regularly with a mild cleaner
• Don’t unclog your toilet with harsh chemical drain cleaners
• Get a professional, internal inspection every two years (or less)
• Fix any leaks immediately
• Avoid DIY hacks to fix issues
• Don’t flush any strange items down the toilet

South Florida’s Trusted Plumbing Experts

If you do find yourself in a situation that requires immediate attention, then contact us Art Plumbing, Air Conditioning & Electric on our emergency hotline at 1-800-475-1504. Our licensed plumbing experts serve Broward, Palm Beach, and Miami-Dade Counties with a smile.

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