If Your Toilet Won’t Stop Running, Try This Before Calling a Plumber
We’ve had some issues with running toilets in our home since we moved in in September 2023. Most of the time, we wind up turning the water source off completely, especially if it is in a bathroom that isn’t used very often. If your toilet is running, it is more than just annoying. It wastes gallons of water and will drive up the cost of your utility bill. However, before you jump to call a plumber, you could save some money and potentially fix the issue on your own. Try some of these fixes before you seek professional help.
1. Check the Flapper for Wear and Tear
One of the more common reasons your toilet might be running is the flapper. This is the rubber seal at the bottom of the tank that controls water flow into the bowl. If it’s worn out, cracked, or not sealing properly, water will continue to flow, causing your toilet to run. You can fix this by turning off the water supply and flushing the toilet to drain the tank. Inspect the flapper for any visible damage, like warping or deterioration. If it looks worn out, replace it with a new one, which is an inexpensive and easy fix.
2. Adjust the Float to Control Water Levels
The float is responsible for controlling how much water fills the tank after each flush. If it’s set too high, water will continuously overflow into the overflow tube, causing the toilet to run. To fix this, find the float, which could be a ball float or a cup float, and adjust it by either bending the metal arm or turning the adjustment screw. Lowering the float slightly can prevent excess water from entering the overflow tube. Then, flush the toilet to see if the water stops running once the tank reaches the correct level.
3. Inspect the Fill Valve for Malfunctions
A malfunctioning fill valve can cause continuous water flow and prevent the tank from filling properly. To check it, remove the tank lid and listen for any unusual hissing sounds, which could indicate a leak. Try adjusting the valve’s screw to regulate water flow and ensure proper filling. If adjusting the valve doesn’t solve the issue, replacing it may be necessary. Shut off the water supply, remove the old fill valve, and install a new one according to the manufacturer’s instructions. A functioning fill valve helps maintain the right water level and stops the toilet from running nonstop.
4. Examine the Chain for Tangles or Slack
There is a chain that connects the flapper to the flush handle. Sometimes, it will get tangled or even become slack. This can stop the flapper from sealing completely, which as I mentioned above, causes the water to keep running. You can adjust the chain by unclipping it and reattaching it at the correct length. Just make sure there’s just enough slack for the flapper to close fully without pulling too tight.
5. Clean the Overflow Tube to Prevent Leaks
The overflow tube prevents the toilet tank from overflowing, but if it’s cracked or clogged, it can cause continuous water flow. Check for any visible cracks or obstructions in the tube. If you see debris, clean it out using a small brush or cloth to ensure proper water drainage. If the tube is damaged, replacing it might be necessary to stop the leak. A properly functioning overflow tube allows water to stop filling at the right level.
6. Test for Silent Leaks with Food Coloring
Sometimes, a leak isn’t obvious, and water runs silently without you noticing. To check for a hidden leak, add a few drops of food coloring into the toilet tank and wait about 10 to 15 minutes. If the color appears in the bowl without flushing, you have a leak. This usually means the flapper isn’t sealing properly or there’s an issue with another component. Identifying a silent leak early can save you from high water bills and potential water damage.
When to Call a Plumber
All of that said, if you’ve tried these more simple fixes for a running toilet and nothing has worked, it is probably time to call in a pro. Continuous problems with a running toilet could indicate a larger plumbing issue. A professional plumber can diagnose more complex issues and get everything fixed up. What isn’t an option is ignoring it. If your toilet is always running, you’re wasting water and could possibly lead to more expensive repairs down the road.
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Drew Blankenship is a former Porsche technician who writes and develops content full-time. He lives in North Carolina, where he enjoys spending time with his wife and two children. While Drew no longer gets his hands dirty modifying Porsches, he still loves motorsport and avidly watches Formula 1.