Why Is My Toilet Running? Common Causes and Fixes

A constantly running toilet can be a nuisance and a waste of water, leading to higher utility bills and potential damage to your home. Understanding the common causes and knowing how to fix them can save you time, money, and frustration. Here’s a guide on what to do if your toilet is constantly running.

1. Check the Flapper

The most common cause of a running toilet is a faulty flapper. The flapper is a rubber seal that controls the flow of water from the tank to the bowl. Over time, it can become worn out or misaligned, causing water to continuously flow into the bowl.

Steps to Fix the Flapper:

• Turn off the water supply to the toilet by turning the valve located behind the toilet.
• Remove the tank lid and locate the flapper at the bottom of the tank.
• Inspect the flapper for any signs of wear, cracks, or buildup of debris.
• Clean or replace the flapper if necessary. Replacement flappers are inexpensive and can be found at any hardware store.
• Ensure the flapper chain has the correct length, allowing the flapper to seal properly without being too tight or too loose.

2. Adjust the Float

The float controls the water level in the toilet tank. If the float is set too high, water will overflow into the overflow tube and cause the toilet to run continuously.

Steps to Adjust the Float:

• Locate the float inside the toilet tank. It can be a ball float (attached to a rod) or a cup float (attached to the fill valve).
• Adjust the float to lower the water level. For a ball float, bend the rod gently downward. For a cup float, use the adjustment screw on the fill valve.
• Test the adjustment by flushing the toilet and checking if the water stops at the correct level.

3. Inspect the Fill Valve

The fill valve is responsible for refilling the tank after each flush. If it’s malfunctioning, it can cause the toilet to keep running.

Steps to Inspect the Fill Valve:

• Turn off the water supply to the toilet.
• Remove the tank lid and locate the fill valve.
• Check for any debris or mineral buildup that might be affecting the valve’s operation.
• Clean or replace the fill valve if necessary. Replacement fill valves are available at most hardware stores and are relatively easy to install.

4. Check the Overflow Tube

The overflow tube prevents the tank from overflowing. If it’s cracked or positioned too high, it can cause water to flow continuously into the bowl.

Steps to Check the Overflow Tube:

• Inspect the overflow tube for any visible cracks or damage.
• Ensure the tube is positioned correctly, about an inch below the critical level mark on the fill valve.
• Adjust or replace the overflow tube if necessary.

5. Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance can prevent toilet issues before they start. Here are a few tips:

• Inspect your toilet regularly for signs of wear and tear.
• Clean the tank components periodically to prevent mineral buildup.
• Replace parts as needed to ensure optimal performance.

Running Toilet Solutions in Albuquerque and Santa Fe

A running toilet is more than just an annoyance; it can lead to wasted water and increased utility bills. By following these simple steps, you can diagnose and fix the problem, ensuring your toilet operates efficiently. If you're ever in doubt or need professional assistance, Wagner is here to help. With our expertise in plumbing and commitment to customer satisfaction, we can ensure your plumbing system runs smoothly.