Overview
If the tank tops itself off every so often, water is slipping past the rubber flapper or the fill valve is not closing all the way, and our minerals chew through both. A lazy flush is usually chain slack, a flapper dropping too soon or crusted rim jets. A wet floor at the bowl means the gasket under it has let go.
We test for silent leaks with dye, replace worn tank parts, adjust the flush and reset the toilet with a new seal if it rocks or leaks. If the bowl or tank is cracked, or the toilet is too old for parts to fit, we will price a replacement.
How we handle it
Diagnose
Dye test, flush test and stability check.
Repair
Flapper, fill valve, flush valve or seal.
Confirm
Several flushes, no leaks, no running.
What it costs
Tank parts are cheap, so most repairs are mostly labor. Pulling and resetting a toilet with a new seal costs more, and flange or floor repair adds to that. If replacing makes more sense, we will say so.
Good to know
- Check for silent leaks with dye twice a year.
- Never use drop-in tablet cleaners; they wear out rubber parts.
- Jiggle-free flushing starts with a properly adjusted chain.
A running toilet can waste a lot of water over a month. If your bill jumped and you cannot find a leak, put food coloring in the tank and see if it shows in the bowl.
Toilet repair questions
Is a running toilet urgent?
Not usually. Turn off the stop and call when convenient.
Why does my toilet clog often?
Older low-flow models, a partial blockage or a line problem.
Can you fix any brand?
Yes. Most parts are universal.
Why does my toilet run for a second now and then?
A slow leak at the flapper lets the tank drop until the fill valve tops it off.