What is the function of a toilet flapper?

The function of a toilet flapper is to control the flow of water from the tank to the bowl. When the toilet is flushed, the flapper lifts, allowing water to rush from the tank into the bowl, initiating the flushing process. This flow of water helps to clear waste and maintain the hygiene of the toilet. Once the flush is complete and the tank begins to refill, the flapper seats itself back down, closing off the flow of water and preventing any additional water from entering the bowl until the next flush. Understanding this mechanism is crucial for diagnosing common toilet issues, as a malfunctioning flapper can lead to continuous running water or inadequate flushing performance.