The average individual doesn't think twice about the toilet, let alone the parts within in it. That is, until the toilet starts running or stops flushing. When it does, it’s usually not the tank, the bowl, or the handle that’s to blame. It’s something much simpler and surprisingly important: the flapper valve.
This humble rubber component hiding inside your toilet tank deserves more attention than it gets. Fortunately, understanding how it works and how to replace it isn’t rocket science. In fact, we'll take care of that in this brief article brought to you by Texas Rooter.
But if you’d rather avoid a messy DIY or if your toilet issues go deeper than a flapper, the pros at Texas Rooter are always ready to help with expert toilet repair or broader plumbing repair services. Call or message us at any time to speak with a live member of our team.
The flapper valve is a rubber or silicone seal located at the bottom of your toilet tank. It covers the flush valve opening and plays a central role in every single flush. Here’s what happens when you push that flush lever in a typical toilet installation:
That’s it. A simple up-down motion controls the entire flushing cycle. However, because it works so often (multiple times a day), it’s no wonder the flapper wears out faster than many other toilet components.
A faulty flapper valve can cause a surprising range of symptoms. Some are obvious while others sneak up and cost you in higher water usage or gradual wear on your system. If you’re dealing with any of the following, then your flapper may be the root of the issue:
There's no good reason to ignore any of these issues. A running toilet, for instance, can waste over 100 gallons of water PER DAY. Plus, replacing the flapper valve is simple enough.
Replacing a flapper valve is one of the more beginner-friendly plumbing fixes. If you’re comfortable lifting a tank lid and getting your hands a little wet, then you're halfway there. Here's a simple summary of what to do:
It's THAT easy... sometimes. If the leak persists, or if other components like the flush valve, handle, or overflow tube are damaged, then you might be looking at a more complex toilet repair. A local plumber is just a call away when Texas Rooter is around.
When flapper problems become frequent or you’re dealing with older plumbing, then it’s smart to call in the experts. Trained plumbers don't just focus on the flapper. They understand the whole plumbing system and can uncover deep-lying issues that the layman may overlook.
Whether you need an urgent leak repair or general plumbing repair service, the team at Texas Rooter is always ready to help. Call or message us today to get in touch with a member of our team. We're happy to schedule an appointment or arrange urgent assistance for as soon as possible.
The average individual doesn't think twice about the toilet, let alone the parts within in…
Read MoreThe notorious burst water main starts with an unusual sound - maybe a low hum,…
Read MoreIn many Texas homes and commercial buildings, the basement isn’t just empty space - it’s…
Read MoreYou might not know it by name, but chances are you’ve seen its calling card:…
Read MoreWe all have those little kitchen habits that get baked into our routine. Maybe it’s…
Read More