Toilets are a modern convenience that we often take for mind—that is, until they malfunction. A running toilet is a common household issue that not only irritates but also wastes water and bloats your utility bills. Don’t let this problem persist! With just a few simple tools and a bit of elbow grease, you can fix a running toilet in 30 minutes or less, even if you’re not particularly handy.

First, don your DIY cap and understand why your toilet is misbehaving. The most common culprit is a faulty flapper valve. This component is responsible for controlling the flow of water from the tank to the bowl, and over time, it can become worn or misaligned, leading to continuous water flow. Another possible issue could be an imbalanced float, which signals the need to refill the tank even when it isn’t necessary.

Now, let’s get started with the repair. Begin by turning off the water supply to the toilet to avoid flooding during the fix. Then, flush the toilet to empty the tank. Remove the lid and inspect the components inside. Check the flapper valve, ensuring it’s properly seated and free from any obstructions or mineral deposits. If it looks worn or damaged, replace it with a new one, making sure to get the right size for your toilet model.

Next, adjust the float, if needed. The float should sit just below the waterline when the tank is full. If it’s set too high, it will trigger the refill mechanism prematurely. Adjust the float height by bending the metal rod or turning the screw, depending on your toilet’s design.