How To Fix a Mansfield Toilet

Usually, there are two reasons why a leak causes a Mansfield toilet to run:

  • The water level is set too high.
  • The flush valve seal is damaged.

Then again, there are occasions when none of the two problems listed above are the cause of the problem. But before you call a professional for help, you can do some investigating on your own. This way, you can save both time and money because some issues are pretty simple to solve.

Understandably, many are worried about trying to fix a Mansfield toilet on their own because of its design. You see, the Mansfield flash valve is much different compared to other toilets. However, that shouldn’t scare you away from trying to fix what could just be a simple issue.

All that said, before you can start fixing a Mansfield toilet, you need to figure out what the problem really is. Here’s a guide to help you out:

The Water Level Is Too High

You can stop a leaking toilet by adjusting its water level, that’s if it’s set too high. But to know if the water level really is the issue, check if the toilet only leaks or runs after it have been flushed. If so, the problem may really lie with the water level being too high. You see, if the water level is higher than normal, the excess will overflow and go down the overflow tube which then ends up in the bowl. You will also hear a running sound.

If you’ve concluded that the issue is with the water level, here’s how you fix the problem:

  • Take note of where the water fills up to in the tank after you flush it.
  • Is the water above line? Is it overflowing and going down the overflow tube? If that’s the case, use a Phillips screwdriver to tighten the screw located on the opposite end of the float ball. Doing this lowers the water level.
  • Try and flush the toilet. Keep in mind that you might have to flush more than once in order to get the water to the right level. To make sure you do less tries, tighten the screw a few extra turns but make sure not to make it too tight. The more the screw gets tightened, the lower the water level gets.

In case the tank gets refilled and the water is below the line, slowly loosen the screw which will cause the water level to rise.

The Flush Valve Seal Is Damaged

A damaged valve seal is one other common cause for a leaky or running Mansfield toilet. In case you’ve tried fixing the water levels and the leaks or runs still remains, then you will need to disassemble the flush valve float.

But before you proceed with disassembling, make sure you have shut the water off to the toilet. This part is crucial because failure to do so will result in things getting really wet, and this is the last thing you want to happen. To turn off the valve, turn it all the way to the right. When the water is shut off, flush the toilet so that you’re working with an empty tank.

After you have taken apart the flush valve float, you will see a red seal located at the bottom of the tank. The purpose of the seal is to stop leaks from the tank into the bowl. So when this seal is damaged, it can be the reason why your toilet is running or leaking.

Now, you will need to pull the seal off in order to replace the valve. Keep in mind that this might be a little bit brittle, particularly if you’re working with an older toilet. Then again, if you intend on replacing the seal then you don’t have to worry about damaging the seal. The seal might be difficult to take off and you might need to really give it a good pull so it stretches out of its groove.

While replacing the seal is not that difficult, you do need to make sure you put the seal back in its correct spot. Take note that there are two grooves located at the bottom where the seal is. It’s important that you get the seal in the top groove. Keep in mind that it might take a few tries before you successfully get it in the right spot.

If you’re not sure which groove you’re in, use your fingernail (if you have a long one) or a butter knife to feel around. This way, you can see if there is another groove located above where your seal is.

In case you’re having ha hard time getting the seal into place, especially in the area nearest the tank, try to get the seal into the proper groove then gently pull it the left and right. If the seal is in the groove then it will slide along and then you can use the same accessible spot to get the seal in the right place.

When you finally get the seal replaced, your toilet should stop running. In case the problem is still present, you can try the third solution which is detailed below.

The Float Valve Is Damaged

If you’ve performed the previous two solutions and still have a leaky or running toilet, then maybe the problem is with a damaged float valve. For instance, the valve may have a small hole which is causing all the problems.

When you take out the float valve, make sure to visually inspect it for any issues. This way, you immediately know that you need to replace your valve rather than go through any other trouble. If you spot holes or any other issues, get a flush valve float replacement and do the steps outlined in the previous section. Doing so should fix your leaky or running toilet. However, if that still isn’t the case, then you need to call a professional for assistance.

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