Toilet Keeps Flushing Periodically

Quick answer

Your toilet may have a faulty flapper, fill valve, or float. First, check for leaks and ensure the flapper seals properly. If issues persist, inspect and replace the fill valve or float as needed. Always turn off the water supply before starting any repairs.

Confirm the symptom

• Toilet flushes on its own every few minutes.
• Water level in the tank rises and falls periodically.
• You hear the toilet refilling intermittently.
• No visible leaks around the toilet base.
• Toilet functions normally when manually flushed.

Tools and prep

• Adjustable wrench
• Screwdriver (flathead and Phillips)
• Replacement flapper, fill valve, or float (if needed)
• Towels or old rags
• Bucket
• Turn off water supply to the toilet
• Flush toilet to empty the tank

Step-by-step troubleshooting

1. Inspect the Flapper
   Do: Look inside the tank and observe the flapper at the bottom.
   Observe: Check if the flapper is worn, warped, or not sealing properly.
   Means: The flapper may allow water to leak into the bowl, causing periodic flushing.
   Next: If the flapper is faulty, replace it.
2. Check the Fill Valve
   Do: Examine the fill valve at the center of the tank.
   Observe: Listen for hissing sounds or water trickling when the tank is full.
   Means: A faulty fill valve may cause water to overflow into the overflow tube, triggering flushing.
   Next: If the fill valve is defective, replace it.
3. Adjust the Float
   Do: Locate the float attached to the fill valve.
   Observe: Ensure the float is not set too high, causing water to overflow.
   Means: A misadjusted float can lead to periodic flushing.
   Next: Adjust the float to the correct water level (about 1 inch below the overflow tube).
4. Inspect the Overflow Tube
   Do: Check the overflow tube connected to the fill valve.
   Observe: Ensure it is properly positioned and not causing water to siphon into the toilet bowl.
   Means: A misaligned overflow tube can lead to periodic flushing.
   Next: Adjust the overflow tube if necessary.
5. Examine the Water Supply Line
   Do: Check the water supply line connected to the toilet.
   Observe: Ensure there are no leaks or kinks in the line.
   Means: A faulty water supply line can cause intermittent flushing.
   Next: Replace the water supply line if it is damaged.
6. Test the Toilet
   Do: Turn the water supply back on and observe the toilet.
   Observe: Check if the periodic flushing issue is resolved.
   Means: If the problem persists, there may be an underlying issue requiring professional inspection.
   Next: Call a professional plumber if necessary.

Common causes

Parts matching

When repairing a toilet that keeps flushing periodically, you may need the following parts:

• Replacement flapper
• Fill valve assembly
• Float adjustment kit
• Overflow tube
• Water supply line
• Toilet handle

Always ensure you have the correct part numbers and models for your specific toilet make and model.

When to call a professional

• If the toilet continues to flush periodically after DIY repairs.
• If you notice significant water damage or leaks.
• If the toilet is more than 15 years old and has frequent issues.
• If you are uncomfortable performing the repairs yourself.
• If the problem persists after replacing common parts.
• If you suspect a more complex plumbing issue.

FAQ

Related guides

• toilet flapper replacement

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