How to Replace a Toilet Flapper to Fix a Running Toilet
A running toilet is more than just an annoyance — it’s a steady drain on your water bill and a potential sign of wear inside your tank. One of the most common causes? A worn-out toilet flapper. At Charlotte Plumbing, we help homeowners across the Charlotte area resolve small issues before they turn into costly problems. If you’re the DIY type, here’s a straightforward guide to replacing a toilet flapper and stopping that constant running.
What Is a Toilet Flapper?
The flapper is a rubber valve inside the tank that lifts to let water flow into the bowl during a flush, then seals back down to hold water in the tank. Over time, flappers can warp, crack, or degrade, causing them to seal poorly — and that’s when you’ll hear the telltale sound of a running toilet.
Signs You Need to Replace Your Flapper
Step-by-Step: How to Replace a Toilet Flapper
Before you begin, pick up a new flapper from a hardware store. Universal models work in most toilets, but it’s a good idea to match your current one as closely as possible.
1. Turn Off the Water Supply
Look for the shutoff valve behind the toilet and turn it clockwise to stop water flow.
2. Drain the Tank
Flush the toilet to empty the tank. You may need to hold down the handle to release most of the water.
3. Remove the Old Flapper
Unhook the flapper chain from the flush lever and detach the flapper arms from the overflow tube. Take a look at how it was attached — it’ll help when installing the new one.
4. Install the New Flapper
Attach the new flapper to the overflow tube and connect the chain to the flush lever arm. Make sure there’s just enough slack for the flapper to open and close fully — too tight or too loose and it may not seal properly.
5. Turn Water Back On and Test
Turn the shutoff valve counterclockwise to restore water to the tank. Let it fill, then flush to test the seal. If the toilet stops running, you’ve done the job right!
When It’s Time to Call a Pro
If your toilet continues running after a flapper replacement, there may be a deeper issue — such as a faulty fill valve, warped flush valve seat, or mineral buildup inside the tank. That’s where Charlotte Plumbing comes in.
Our licensed plumbers can quickly identify the issue and fix it correctly — saving you time, water, and frustration. No guesswork, no upselling — just honest service and lasting results.
