Toilet Tinkling

[peteml]

There is a constant sound of tinkling water coming from the tank of our toilet and then about once an hour you hear the tank refilling. What is causing that and what is the best way to correct the problem?

[LazyPup]

The most likely cause is a leaking flapper valve in the bottom of the tank that is allowing water to leak into the bowl.

When the tank is full and the fill valve is stopped examine the water in the bowl closely. Any sign of motion is an indication that the flapper is leaking.

Check the chain from the flush handle to the flapper valve. Sometimes there is excess slack in the chain and the chain gets stuck on the flush valve seat which prevents the flapper from closing properly?

Examine the flapper ball. If it feels gummy or if you get black stains on your hand from touching it, change the flapper.

Also chech the seat where the flapper sits down. Look for calcium or mineral deposits on the edge that would prevent a good seal.

You can buy a replacement flapper at any hardware or home supply center for about $1.50 and it is an easy 2 minute change out.