How to Fix Common Toilet Problems Without Calling a Plumber

Here is a common toilet disaster and what to do about it:

The Toilet is Leaking

There are two situations in which the toilet could be leaking. The first is a situation where you hear water running and you do not actually see any water leaking out. This problem is likely coming from inside the tank. The fresh water coming into the toilet fills the tank up to get it ready for the next flush. It fills the tank and also puts a little water in the toilet bowl. When you hear the running it is because the rubber flapper inside the tank is not closing fully. Open the tank and see if the rubber flapper is closed down on the hole. If it is not, check to see if its chain is caught on something and straight it out so it will seat. If this does not work, you may need a new flapper. They are inexpensive and easy to find at any discount or hardware store. To install the new flapper, take the lid off the tank, turn off the water at the wall. Flush the toilet until all water is drained out of tank. Then take the old flapper off its hinges and chain and attach the new flapper. This should solve the problem of a running toilet.