Let's just imagine for a minute that you hear a little dripping around the toilet. You might notice a little ripple in the bowl water or you just paid a water bill a little higher than last month's. You MIGHT need a flapper!

Don't get nervous. You don't need to call the Potty Doctor.... yet!

Follow these simple steps and you might just avoid having to call ANYONE!

Take the tank lid off. (He tank lid is the top of the toilet where we put flowers, air freshener, the "extra roll", reading material etc.) Over the years, being a Potty Doctor, I've been able to balance almost anything on that tank lid, but you shouldn't try this at home. Take all items off the tank lid first. It may help not having to stick your hand in the bowel fishing whatever fell off in the process.

The flapper is the rubber valve, usually attached by a chain to the Trip Lever. It generally is attached to the "flush valve" by two little ears hooked on each side of the "overflow tube". Most standard models of toilets utilize a standard flapper which can be purchased at your local Do-It-Yourself store. It is important to notice the name brand of the toilet, such as Kohler or American Standard along with any markings denoting "1.6 gpf" or "6 litre" per flush.

Once you have identified the proper replacement flapper and proper gallons per flush, you are standing if front of the throne ready to go.

Disclaimer: It is always a good idea to know for sure where the main water shut off valve to the house or apartment is located. (Just in case)

Turn the little emergency shut off valve to the off position. This little valve is located on the left side of the toilet under the tank and has a tube leading to the bottom of the tank. The handle resembles a football.

Once the water is off, flush the toilet which empties most water from the tank. (You don't need to have all water out of the tank) Reach down and gently release each ear from it's hook on each side of the overflow tube. Now remove the chain from the trip lever. Set this flapper to the side as it might have to be re-installed if the one you have won't fit. Reattach the new flapper valve to the hooks and hold the chain up to the lever for proper measurement.

A properly attached chain should have slack of approximately 1/4" before the chain becomes tight and pulls the flapper valve up.

It is important to pinch the chain hook closed on the lever so that it cannot jump off when someone gets too aggressive in their flushing technique.

If all is well, when you turn the football shaped valve back on, the potty should reach the proper water level in the tank and shut off. If no more water is dripping, no more ripples in the bowl water and no more sounds of running water.... it's time for a relaxing glass of wine.

If not.... now you might want to consider calling Potty Doctor for further advise or to schedule a service request.

Remember: No question is a "dumb" question. We may be able to help over the phone. Good luck and remember, we are always just a phone call away.