If you hear the toilet flush when no one else is in the home, it can be an unnerving experience. Known as ghost flushing, it is a fairly common residential plumbing issue that can be solved with the help of a technician. In the guide below, find out more about what causes this issue and what you can do to stop it.

What Is Ghost Flushing?

Ghost flushing happens when a toilet empties automatically because water has been leaking from the tank for some time. There are several reasons for this, all of which can significantly increase your water bill if the problem is not addressed quickly.  

An internal leak is the biggest culprit in ghost flushing. Toilets have many moving parts that undergo constant use.  One failing part can lead another to worsen, which means the internal system needs to be replaced. For example, a loose shutoff valve causes the water pressure to be too high for the valve to handle, making the toilet flush automatically.

External leaks can happen inside the tank, the bowl, or the pipes that connect the toilet to the sewage system. For example, the flush valve pushes the water from the toilet into the sewer system.  A broken one pulls the handle constantly, and you may need to replace the entire flush valve.

What Are Some Solutions?

While you might be able to handle the issue on your own, a plumbing professional has the equipment and experience to quickly find the cause. They’ll check and adjust the flapper chain or float ball in the toilet tank if needed. They’ll find the source by dropping a dye tablet in the tank and can identify if and where there is a leak and seal it at the source.

If you suspect you have a toilet that is ghost flushing, reach out to a plumbing professional. The contractors at Norhio Plumbing Inc have provided 24/7 emergency plumbing, drain cleaning, and water heater repair help to residents of greater Cleveland and northeast Ohio for more than 40 years. The staff of plumbing experts guarantees efficient, affordable service on everything from unclogging the sink to sewer work.  To learn more about services, visit the website or call (330) 562-9671.