The flush in your toilets keeps flowing, which makes it difficult for you to properly flush the toilet, makes an incessant water noise and generates significant water losses. Fortunately, any problem (or almost) has its solution and it is possible to repair your flush without calling a plumber. Let’s do a check in.
Why does the toilet flush constantly?
It is estimated that a constantly running toilet flush can waste nearly 150 liters per day. It is therefore better to find a solution quickly to avoid seeing the amount of your bills soar.
You should know that wear and tear on the toilet is normal. Indeed, sanitary facilities are constantly in contact with water and its oxidizing components. However, limestone and other corrosive elements alter the various components of the flush and deteriorate it, which disrupts its proper functioning. Thus, when you notice a water leak at the level of the flush which causes it to flow permanently, it is recommended to act without delay and identify the origin of the problem to remedy it quickly and effectively.
To do this, close the water supply to the toilet in order to interrupt the filling of the flush and its flow. Then activate the flush several times to completely empty the tank. Remove the lid from the latter and observe to determine the origin of the leak.
What are the causes and solutions for leaking toilets?
Here are the main causes of a leaky toilet and what to do about it.
The float in question
The float is often the cause. With erosion and limestone, it pierces, breaks or blocks and no longer rises properly to the surface, causing continuous overflows.
The solution is simple. In this case, simply replace the float with a new model adapted to your model of toilet. To avoid mistakes, take your old disassembled float to a DIY store. If it is only scaled up, take it apart and let it soak in a bath of lukewarm water and white vinegar before reassembling everything.
In some cases, the float simply goes wrong and can position itself too high or too low, until it triggers flows. It is then sufficient to put it back in place manually, possibly by using the rod or by screwing it back on.
The valve in question
The valve located at the bottom of the cistern helps to seal the tank when it is closed. With erosion and limestone, the valve can close badly and allow water to flow between the tank and the bowl.
In this case, it suffices to descale the valve if it is only scaled. To do this, immerse it for a few minutes to several hours in a bath of warm water and white vinegar and let it act. If it is too worn, it is better to replace it directly.
The seal in question
In addition to the valve, a seal ensures the seal between the bowl and the tank. If it is scaled, cracked, worn or moved, leaks are possible. If it is involved, simply replace it with a new equivalent model, but to do this, it is necessary to dismantle a good part of the toilet, in particular by separating the bowl and the tank. The operation is not as complex as it seems, but it requires suitable equipment and a little patience.
If despite everything your flush continues to leak, then it is best to call on the services of a plumber.