Got a plumbing question?

I thought I knew the problem with my running toilet, so I took out the old parts that deal with the little ball and fill up the tank that is what seemed to be causing it to run, when I lifed up on the ball it would stop. It stopped the running water sound. I had turned off the water to the toilet, before I flushed to let the rest of the water out the level was low. I went ahead and installed everything but a new flapper and overflow tube. Now the tank still doesn't stay full, it doesn't constantly run, but every few minutes the water level goes down and it runs to fill back up! So does it sound like I need to replace the flapper and overfill tube too?? We were trying to get by without just buying a new toilet, but I am beginning to wonder if that is what I may have to do. Or do you think I installed something wrong? I have not done this before, but followed directions and there is nothing leaking and I don't hear water running but the water level just goes down! I am confused! HELP!! Okay did the food color thing and within a few minutes there was blue water in the bottom of the bowl! So I guess I will try to replace the flapper or clean it and make sure nothing is stuck or gunked up around it. It is older and has a lot of gunk build up around the overflow tube which I was chipping off too. I was trying to fix it before my husband returned home for the weekend so he wouldn't have to mess with it! I am usually pretty handy and can do things my self or am not afraid to try! Now I have to figure out how to replace the other part! Maybe time to call dear old dad! Thanks for the ideas to the two plumbers!

Public Comments

1. Okay.Let us examine......The flapper (if not properly aligned) will allow the water level to go down every so often. Second...The fill tube could be the culprit,but only if its overfilling due to an improper level from the flush valve. So....Check the fill valve to see how many liters or gallons per flush it is set for and adjust it accordingly.Good luck!
2. When you do replace the flapper, take you thumbnail and thoroughly check the face of the flush valve opening for buildup. That buildup will keep even a new flapper from completely sealing. If you feel buildup, what I do is scape it off using the backside of my pocket knife blade. When overflow tubes were brass, we did have to deal with them from time to time. But chances are you are ok with yours.
3. I would think it is probably the flapper that needs to be replaced. One easy way to check is to put a few drops of food coloring into the tank till it colors the water. Wait for awhile or even overnight and if you find the colored water in the bowel then you know that the flapper is leaking water through it. The fill tube usually doesn't need replaced. The only thing there is that you want to make sure the water level is not set higher than about a 1/2" below the top of the tube. Otherwise the water will keep trying to fill the tank but will not be able to since it is running down the overflow tube.