A toilet that flushes on its own, also known as ghost flushing, is a common problem for most homeowners. According to the EPA, an average American home uses more than 300 gallons of water per day, with 24% of the water use occurring in the toilet. With ghost flushing, these figures will be even higher, especially when it happens regularly. You need to understand why your toilet flushes on its own and stop the problem from occurring.

Reasons Why Your Toilet Might Flush on its Own

The tank and the bowl are the main parts of the toilet. When the toilet is flushed, water is released from the tank to the bowl to drain its contents. Whenever the toilet is not in use, a flapper seal prevents water from flowing into the bowl.

However, due to the effects of wear and tear, or algae formation around the flapper, the flapper may loosen, causing water to leak into the bowl. With low water levels in the tank, the toilet flushes, water starts filling the tank, and the process continues repeatedly. Depending on the condition of the flapper, ghost flushing can become an ongoing problem.

Ways to Fix Ghost Flushing

Now that you have identified what is causing your toilet to flush on its own, you need to find ways to fix it. Fixing the flapper is an easy thing you can do on your own. Here are quick and simple steps to guide you.

  • First, you need to turn off the water supply at the cutoff valve.
  • Flush the toilet to empty the tank.
  • Take off the toilet lid.
  • Remove the flapper and take it with you to the nearest hardware store to find a perfect fit for replacement.
  • Clean the space it occupies before replacing it to eliminate any algae, which might prevent total sealing.

Before purchasing a new flapper, you can fix the existing one after cleaning because sometimes algae can be the problem. Also, check the chain in the tank to ensure it's not trapped under the flapper. If it is, it means it's too long, and you need to shorten it.

If the leak does not stop, you may consider replacing the entire toilet assembly tank assembly.

Work with Expert Plumbers in South Jersey

Fixing your toilet leaks can sometimes be a challenge, especially if you cannot establish the cause. The expert plumbers of Benjamin Franklin Plumbing are always ready to help fix water leaks in your toilet, ghost flushing, and any other plumbing issue. Contact us today at an appointment or to discuss your plumbing needs with a professional.