A step by step thread on fixing a running toilet without calling a plumber

Does your toilet run nonstop and waste gallons of water? In this thread, I'm sharing a step-by-step DIY guide to fix a running toilet without calling a plumber.

Step 1: Identify the cause. Open the tank and check three common culprits: a worn or dirty flapper, a chain that's too short or too long, and a float set too high. These issues prevent a proper seal and cause constant filling^[2][7].

Step 2: Begin with low-risk fixes. Turn off the water supply and remove the tank lid. Adjust the flapper chain so there's just a slight slack, ensuring the flapper can seal properly. Clean or replace the flapper if it's warped or dirty. Keep spare parts nearby: flapper, chain, float, fill valve, & overflow tube^[10][4].

Step 3: Adjust the float. Flush the toilet and observe the water level. It should stop about 1 inch below the top of the overflow tube. If it's too high, use the adjustment screw (or gently bend the rod on older toilets) to lower the float^[2][4].

Step 4: Final test. Turn the water back on and let the tank refill. Flush the toilet, then add a few drops of food coloring. Wait 10 minutes—if the color appears in the bowl, the seal still leaks; if not, you're all set^[7][9].