A constantly running toilet isn’t just an annoying background sound — it’s a sign that your home’s plumbing system needs attention. That subtle stream of water adds up fast, wasting gallons each day and driving up your water bill.
At Andreas Plumbing, we know how frustrating it can be to deal with a flush toilet that won’t stop running. Fortunately, this common issue is often easy to fix with a bit of help from your trusted local experts.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top reasons your toilet keeps running, simple steps to fix it, and when it’s time to call in the pros.
Common Reasons Your Toilet Won’t Stop Running
A running toilet can have several culprits, most of which involve parts inside the tank. Over time, wear and tear affects these components, causing leaks or improper sealing.
1. Worn Flapper or Gasket
The flapper is a rubber piece that lifts when you press the flush lever and seals once the water has emptied into the bowl. If the flapper or its gasket is warped, cracked, or misaligned, it allows water to trickle continuously into the bowl. You may also notice the water level dropping and refilling frequently, a clear sign of a poor seal.
2. Faulty Fill Valve or Ballcock
The fill valve (also known in older models as the ballcock) controls the water supply into the tank. If it’s damaged or misadjusted, it may allow water to keep flowing even after the tank is full. A loud hissing or gurgling sound often signals trouble with this component.
3. Improper Float Height
If the float, the part that rises with the water level, is set too high, it allows the tank to overfill. This leads to water spilling into the overflow tube and running constantly. You may be able to adjust the float by turning a screw or sliding a clip along a rod.
4. Worn Flush Handle or Lever Mechanism
Sometimes, the issue lies with the flush lever or its chain. If the chain is too short or tangled, or if the lever sticks in the down position, the flapper may remain open, letting water continue to drain.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Fix a Running Toilet
Before you reach for the phone or head to the hardware store, grab a towel, a sponge, and a few basic tools like pliers, a screwdriver, and an adjustable wrench. Then follow these steps:
Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply
Locate the shutoff valve behind the toilet and turn it clockwise until it stops. This will stop the flow of water from the pipe so you can work safely.
Step 2: Empty the Tank
Flush the toilet to drain the water from the tank. Use a sponge or towel to soak up any remaining water.
Step 3: Inspect the Flapper
Lift the tank lid and look at the flapper. If it’s visibly damaged or doesn’t close tightly, it’s time to replace it. Most flappers are easy to remove and replace — just unhook it from the chain and hinge.
Step 4: Check the Fill Valve and Float
If the flapper looks fine, examine the fill valve. You may need to adjust the float by turning the screw on top of the fill valve or bending the float arm slightly downward. In dual flush toilet models, inspect the button mechanism as well to ensure it isn’t sticking.
Step 5: Reassemble and Test
Once adjustments or replacements are made, restore the water supply by turning the valve counterclockwise. Let the tank fill and monitor the behavior. If everything looks good, give it a test flush and check for leaks around the base, near the gasket or the supply line nut.
When to Call a Professional
If you’ve tried replacing parts, adjusting the float, and ensuring the lever and chain are working properly but the problem persists, it’s time to contact Andreas Plumbing. Some issues, like a cracked tank, a misaligned siphon tube, or deeper pipe pressure imbalances, require expert diagnosis and repair.
And if your toilet is older or part of a broader bathroom or home improvement project, upgrading to a modern dual flush toilet can reduce your water usage and add value to your real estate investment.
Preventing Future Toilet Troubles
A little maintenance goes a long way. Every few months, take a few minutes to:
- Check for slow leaks by dropping a bit of food coloring in the tank. If color appears in the bowl after 30 minutes without flushing, you have a leak.
- Inspect moving parts like the flush handle, chain, and gasket for wear.
- Ensure the fill valve shuts off completely once the tank is full.
Whether you’re upgrading your shower, fixing a sink, or dealing with a mysterious leak, staying proactive with your bathroom plumbing can save water, stress, and money.
Contact Andreas Plumbing Today!
A running toilet might seem like a small issue, but left unchecked, it can waste hundreds of gallons of water and lead to bigger plumbing problems down the line. Fortunately, many causes are easy to fix with a few tools and a little know-how. If you’re tired of jiggling the handle or listening to that constant stream of water, the team at Andreas Plumbing is here to help.
Let us take care of your plumbing needs, from toilet repairs to full bathroom upgrades. Contact us today to schedule service for your toilet, water heater, or any other plumbing fixtures, and we’ll be in touch ASAP!