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Adjusting a Standard Fill Valve — Adjust the Float Cup

Beginner30 mins

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How to Stop a Constantly Running Toilet by Adjusting the Fill Valve Float · Step 3 of 5

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In this video

Identify the adjustment mechanism on a common fill valve. This is typically a single screw, often with a Phillips head, located on an arm connected to the float. To increase the amount of water that fills the bowl, use a Phillips head screwdriver to turn the screw to the right (clockwise). This raises the float, causing more water to enter the tank and subsequently the bowl. To decrease the water level, turn the screw to the left (counter-clockwise).

Goal: Adjust bowl water level using a single adjustment screw

  • Turning the screw to the right (clockwise) will put more water in your bowl.
  • Turning the screw to the left (counter-clockwise) will put less water in your bowl.
  • The bowl water level is controlled by the height of the float on the fill valve itself; a higher float means more water.

Used in this video

  • Phillips Head Screwdriver (brand: Not specified, Tool Type: Screwdriver, Power Source: Manual, Material: Metal, Purpose: Fastening, Screwdriver Type: Phillips head) — To turn the adjustment screw on the fill valve.
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FAQs

What specific tools will I need to adjust the fill valve float?

For most modern fill valve adjustments, you typically won't need specialized tools beyond your hands. Some older or specific fill valve types might require a flathead or Phillips screwdriver to loosen a lock screw or a pair of pliers to gently turn a locking nut. Always have a towel handy for any minor spills.

Do I need to turn off the water supply to the toilet before adjusting the float?

While not strictly necessary for simply adjusting the float, it's a recommended safety measure, especially for beginners. Turning off the water at the shut-off valve behind the toilet prevents accidental overflows if you inadvertently displace a component. Remember to turn the water back on fully after testing your adjustment.

How do I know if I've adjusted the float to the correct water level?

The ideal water level is typically about 1 inch below the top of the overflow tube in the tank. After each adjustment, flush the toilet and observe the water refilling. The fill valve should shut off completely once the water reaches this level, and the toilet should remain silent without any trickling sound.

What should I do if adjusting the float doesn't stop the toilet from running?

If adjusting the float doesn't resolve the constant running, the problem likely lies elsewhere in the fill valve assembly or with the flapper valve at the bottom of the tank. The flapper might not be sealing properly, or the fill valve itself could be faulty and require replacement. Consider checking the flapper for wear or obstruction next.

Transcript
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Most commonly you're going to see a fill valve that has an adjustment like this where there's just a little plus sign at the top and you can put a Phillips head screwdriver in here and turn it to the right if you want the fill valve to put more water in your bowl or to the left if you wanted to put less in your bowl. It's controlled by the height of the float on the fill valve itself. The more water you put into your tank, the more water it's going to put into your bowl.

Auto-generated transcript. May contain errors.