There are several possible reasons why a Kohler toilet fill valve won’t shut off, including:

• Faulty fill valve
• Kohler toilet bad flapper
• Loose flush lever
• Kohler toilet fill height

To fix the issue you can adjust the float first. Then inspect the fill valve for mineral build-up. If all the method fails, then go for valve replacement. For more serious issues, a professional plumber may be needed to diagnose and fix them.

We’ll discuss common reasons why a Kohler toilet fill valve might not shut off, as well as solutions to help you resolve it. Also, we’ll cover when to seek professional help, and how preventative maintenance can help.

Quick Solutions For Kohler Toilet Fill Valve Won’t Shut Off

Let’s check out a quick fix chart:

Problem	Reasons	Solutions
1. Faulty fill valve in Kohler toilet	> Worn-out components > Debris Or sediment accumulation	> Adjust the float > Inspect the valve > Replace the valve
2. Bad flapper of Kohler toilet	> Wear and tear > Alignment issues	> Inspect the flapper > Clean obstructions > Replace the flapper
3. Loose flush lever	> Damaged flush lever	> Tightening the loose flush lever > Install the new flush lever
4. Kohler toilet fill height	Incorrect fill height	> Adjust the fill height
5. Faulty flush handle and flush chain	Too short flapper chain	> Inspect the flush handle and flapper chain > Adjust or replace the flapper chain

Kohler Toilet Fill Valve Won’t Shut Off [Why + How To Fix]

One of the most common issues that toilet owners face is when the fill valve won’t shut off. The fill valve typically refills the toilet tank after every flush. If it doesn’t shut off, the water will continue to fill the tank until it overflows, wasting water and money.

With our below guide, you should be able to fix this issue easily without having to spend a lot of money on repairs or replacements.

1. Faulty Fill Valve In Kohler Toilet

The fill valve is responsible for regulating the water flow into the toilet tank. When the fill valve in a Kohler toilet is faulty, it may fail to shut off the water flow. As a result, the water runs continuously.

Reasons:

Several factors can contribute to a faulty fill valve:

i) Worn-out Components:

 A fill valve’s internal components, such as the diaphragm or seals, can degrade over time. This can lead to a loss of functionality and an inability to shut off the water flow effectively.

ii) Debris Or Sediment Accumulation:

 Mineral deposits, dirt, or debris can accumulate in the fill valve, obstructing its proper operation. As a result, the valve may fail to close completely and water will not be shut off.

Possible Solutions:

To address a faulty fill valve that won’t shut off in a Kohler toilet, you can take the following steps:

Step-1: Locate the water shut-off valve near the base of the toilet Then turn it clockwise to stop the water flow.

Step- 2: Flush the toilet to drain the water from the tank. Use a sponge or towel to soak up any remaining water.

Step- 3: Disconnect the water supply line from the bottom of the tank. Unscrew the lock nut or coupling nut that secures the fill valve to the tank. Lift the fill valve out of the tank.

Step- 4: Reconnect the water supply line and ensure it is securely tightened. Turn on the water supply, and observe if the new fill valve shuts off the water flow properly. 

Step- 5: Adjust the fill valve’s float or water level as necessary to achieve the desired water level in the tank.

Step- 6: Install a replacement fill valve that is compatible with your Kohler toilet model. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper installation. It includes adjusting the height and aligning the valve correctly.

Note: If the problem persists or you are unsure about performing the replacement yourself, it is recommended to seek assistance from a professional plumber.

2. Bad Flapper Of Kohler Toilet

The fill valve can malfunction in a Kohler toilet if the flapper fails to close properly. In fact, a bad flapper can contribute to a Kohler toilet fill valve not shutting off.

Usually, the flapper is a rubber or plastic seal. It controls the release of water from the tank into the bowl during flushing.

So, when the flapper is faulty, it may not seal properly. As a result, the fill valve will not close properly, allowing water to leak into the bowl continuously.

Reasons:

There are several factors that can contribute to the failure of a flapper, including:

i) Wear And Tear:

The flapper undergoes regular use and can deteriorate sometimes. The flapper is continuously exposed to water, chemicals, and cleaning agents. Thus, it weakens, warps, and cracks.

ii) Alignment Issues:

Improper alignment of the flapper can prevent it from fully covering the flush valve opening. This can result in water leakage and an inadequate seal. As a result, the fill valve won’t shut off.

Possible Solutions:

To address a faulty flapper in a Kohler toilet, consider the following solutions:

i) Inspect The Flapper:

Check the flapper for signs of wear, cracks, or warping. If it appears worn out or damaged, it is recommended to replace it with a new flapper.

ii) Clean Or Remove Obstructions:

Check for any debris, mineral deposits, or obstructions around the flapper or flush valve opening. Clean them using a non-abrasive cleaner or vinegar solution. Ensure that the flapper and flush valve are free of obstructions.

iii) Replace the flapper:

Purchase a new flapper that is compatible with your Kohler toilet model. To replace the flapper in a Kohler toilet, follow these steps:

Step- 1: Locate the shut-off valve near the base of the toilet and turn it clockwise to shut off the water supply.

Step- 2: Flush the toilet to drain as much water as possible from the tank. Use a sponge or towel to soak up any remaining water.

Step- 3: Unhook the chain from the flush lever or lift arm connected to the flapper. Slide or unclip the mounting ears of the old flapper from the posts on the flush valve.

Step- 4: Position the new flapper’s mounting ears onto the posts of the flush valve. Make sure it is properly attached.

Step- 5: Attach the chain to the flush lever or lift arm. Adjust the chain length so that it allows the flapper to fully close without excess slack.

Step- 6: Open the shut-off valve to restore water flow to the toilet tank. Flush the toilet and observe if the new flapper seals properly and allows for a complete flush. Check for any leaks or issues with the flapper closing.

3. Loose Flush Lever

One possible cause of a Kohler toilet fill valve not shutting off is a loose flush lever. The flush lever is the handle or button you press to initiate the flushing process. 

So, If the flush lever is loose, it can affect the operation of the fill valve. As a result, the water flow will not be properly shut off.

Possible Solutions:

You can solve this issue by tightening the loose lever. So, for fixing a loose flush lever you can do these:

Step- 1: Locate the shut-off valve near the base of the toilet and turn it clockwise to shut off the water supply. Remove the tank lid by carefully lifting it off and setting it aside on a stable surface.

Step- 2: Examine the flush lever and its connection to the tank wall. Check for any visible looseness or wobbling. Inside the tank, locate the nut or screw that secures the flush lever to the tank wall.

Step- 3: Use a wrench or pliers to tighten the nut or screw clockwise, ensuring a secure connection. Be cautious not to overtighten, as it can damage the tank or lever.

Step- 4: Press down on the flush lever to simulate a flush and observe if it operates smoothly. Check if the fill valve shuts off properly after flushing.

Step- 5: Open the shut-off valve to restore water flow to the toilet tank.

How To Install A New Flush Lever In Kohler Toilet

If tightening the flush lever does not resolve the issue, then install a new flush lever. You should follow some methods to install a new flush lever in a Kohler toilet:

Step- 1: Locate the shut-off valve near the base of the toilet. Turn it clockwise to shut off the water supply.

Step- 2: Flush the toilet to drain as much water as possible from the tank. Use a sponge or towel to soak up any remaining water

Step- 3: Use a wrench or pliers to loosen and remove the nut or unscrew the screw counterclockwise. Disconnect the chain or rod attached to the flapper or flush valve.

Step- 4: Take the new flush lever assembly. Ensure it is compatible with your Kohler toilet model. Check that all the necessary components, such as the lever handle and mounting hardware, are included and in good condition.

Step- 5: Insert the threaded end of the flush lever. the mounting hole in the tank wall from the outside of the tank. From the inside of the tank, thread on the nut or screw onto the threaded end of the flush lever.

Step- 6: Use a wrench or pliers to tighten the nut or screw clockwise until it is snug but not overly tight. Reattach the chain or rod to the flapper or flush valve. Make sure it is properly connected and allows for smooth operation.

4. Check The Kohler Toilet Fill Height

Incorrect fill height Of Kohler toilet flush is another culprit for a fill valve not shutting off. If the float cup is positioned too high, water can enter the overflow tube and flow into the toilet bowl.

This causes the fill valve to turn on periodically to top up the tank. 

Possible Solutions:

If a Kohler fill valve is not closing due to incorrect fill height, Try to adjust it. 

Step-1: Turn the shut-off valve clockwise to stop the flow of water near the base of the toilet. Carefully lift off the tank lid and set it aside on a stable surface.

Step- 2: Usually, there is a mark or indicator inside the tank indicating the correct fill height. These marks are often located on the inside walls of the tank or on the float assembly.

Step- 3: Connect a rod or arm to the float assembly, usually attached to the fill valve. 

Step- 4: Adjust the float by either bending the rod or adjusting a screw or clip on the assembly. By lowering the float cup to the appropriate height, the tank fills to its maximum.

Step- 5: After each adjustment, test the fill valve to ensure the water shuts off. Then, open the shut-off valve to restore water flow to the toilet tank.

Step- 6: Check if the fill valve shuts off properly at the adjusted fill height. Make sure there are no leaks or problems with the water level.

5. Faulty Flush Handle And Flush Chain

When the flapper chain is too short or becomes entangled, it prevents the flapper from closing properly. This results in water continuously running and the fill valve not shutting off.

Possible Solution:

If you’re experiencing issues with a faulty flush handle and flush chain, there are a few tips you can follow to address the problem

i) Inspect The Flush Handle And Flapper Chain:

Check the flush handle for any damage or misalignment. Ensure it is properly connected to the flush lever. Examine the flapper chain to see if it is too short, tangled, or has any rust or corrosion.

ii) Adjust Or Replace The Flapper Chain:

If the flapper chain is too short, lengthen it by adjusting the chain’s attachment to the flush lever. Leave some slack in the chain, ensuring it is not too tight or too loose.

In fact, make sure the flapper chain is untangled to ensure it moves freely. If the flapper chain is rusty or damaged, it is recommended to replace it with a new chain.

iii) Test The Flush Handle And Flapper Chain:

With the water supply still turned off, manually operate the flush handle. After that, try to observe the movement of the flapper and chain. Ensure the flush handle lifts the flapper fully and the flapper chain closes tightly.

FAQs:

Conclusion:

When a Kohler toilet fill valve won’t shut off, it can be frustrating and costly. There can be a number of reasons behind this issue, from a faulty fill valve to Kohler toilet flush issues. The good news is there are several solutions, from adjusting the float to replacing the flapper.

However, we have attempted to cover everything about this topic. Feel free to comment below if you have any further questions! By identifying the root cause of the issue and taking the necessary steps to fix it, you can get your toilet back in working order in no time. Please check our other troubleshooting guide if you face Kohler toilet flushes too fast issues.