Almost every homeowner ignores the toilet flapper until it starts causing problems. A leaky flapper can waste a lot of water and leave you with a hefty water bill. If the flapper is left unchecked, it can damage your toilet tank and floor. This article will discuss how to fix toilet flapper leaks yourself and when it’s time to contact the experts.
What Is A Flapper?
It is a rubber or plastic seal covering the flush valve opening at the bottom of a toilet tank. It is connected to the trip lever (or flush handle) with a metal or plastic chain. When you flush, the trip lever lifts the flapper off the valve seat, allowing water to enter the bowl and begin the flush. When the tank is empty, it falls back into place on the valve seat, stopping the flow of water out of the tank.
Why Does A Toilet Flapper Leak?
A toilet flapper leaks for a variety of reasons:
Deposits And Damage
The most common reason is that the flapper is not properly sealing the opening to the flush valve. This can be caused by a build-up of mineral deposits, preventing it from closing completely. It may also be damaged or worn out in some cases, preventing it from forming a tight seal.
Chain Too Long Or Too Short
If the chain is too long, it can become tangled and prevent it from sealing correctly. If the chain is too short, it can put too much tension on the flapper, causing it to leak. Adjusting the length of the chain can usually fix this problem.
Issues With Fill Valve
Finally, they may leak if there is a problem with the fill valve. The fill valve controls the amount of water that enters the tank, and if it is not working correctly, it can cause water to leak past the flapper.
Can You Fix A Leaky Flapper On Your Own?
In most cases, you can replace the component independently, and you don’t need any special tools or skills. Just be sure to turn off the water to the toilet before starting:
- Remove the old one from the flush valve.
- Clean the area around the valve so that the new one will have a tight seal.
- Install the new component and turn on the water.
With a little bit of effort, you can fix a leaky one and save yourself a lot of money on your water bill.
When To Call A Professional For Leaky Flapper?
Even if you’re handy around the house, there are some cases where it’s best to call a professional.
If you cannot find the source of the leak, it’s probably best to call a plumber to fix toilet flapper leaks. A professional can find the problem and make the necessary repairs quickly.
You should also contact an expert when you have a leaky fill valve. It is a more complex repair, and it’s best to leave it to the experts.
Finally, if you’re not comfortable working on your toilet, it’s probably best to call a plumber. Toilet repairs can be tricky, and you don’t want to make things worse.
