Get matched with top toilet pros in Scottsbluff, NE

If you notice that your toilet is leaking puddles near the base, the leak is coming from your toilet bowl, and the water could be unsanitary. This is a situation that needs to be dealt with immediately—call a nearby plumbing repair pro right away. A contained leak from tank to bowl is not as urgent a situation, but it could be raising the cost of your water bill—have it looked at as soon as you can.

The average cost to replace a toilet fill valve is around $100, and prices range from $50 up to $150, depending on your location, the experience of the plumber, and how accessible your toilet is. In most cases, a professional plumber can replace your fill valve in under an hour, although it might take longer if they also need to fix or replace other components at the same time.

While you shouldn’t increase the flow of your low-flow toilet by adjusting the water level in the toilet bowl set by the manufacturer, you can make the flow as efficient as possible by ensuring the rim jets under the rim are unobstructed. To do this, use a mirror to look under the rim and scrub them with a toothbrush or a small wire to clear any debris stuck in the holes. You can also watch for leaks, make sure the internal components are in good shape, and replace them if necessary.

You can DIY your toilet flapper replacement if you’re up for a small plumbing project. Turn off the water to the toilet, open the tank lid, remove the chain from the lever, and unhook the flapper. For a new, adjustable flapper, adjust it to the right setting according to your toilet's gallons per flush rating. Hook the flapper in place and install the chain with 1/2 inch of slack.