Why Does My Toilet Keep Running?

Is hearing your toilet running long after it has been flushed a common problem in your home? Or does your toilet randomly start running when you haven’t used it in a while? 

Let’s explore the possible issues and fix the problem to save you money on your water bill.

Understanding Why Your Toilet Keeps Running

The most common culprits include flapper issues, which seal the flush valve after flushing the toilet. These issues include a worn or deteriorated flapper, misalignment preventing a proper seal, chain problems such as length issues, debris or mineral buildup, and a warped flapper. 

Flapper problems can result from age, improper installation, water quality, or chemical exposure. Addressing these problems through cleaning, adjustment, or replacement can resolve the issue of a running toilet and prevent unnecessary water wastage.

Identifying which component is at fault is crucial in effectively addressing the problem and preventing further water wastage.

Consequences of Your Toilet Running Water

Each minute a toilet continues to run, you’re wasting water, adding up to gallons lost over time. Constantly running water inflates your utility bills and strains local water resources. According to the Milwaukee Water Works, a leaky toilet that keeps running can waste up to 200 gallons of water daily. 

Consider the environmental impact of this water waste and the energy-intensive processes involved in treating and distributing water. Addressing a running toilet is not just about saving money; it’s a conscientious effort to conserve water and reduce your ecological footprint.

DIY Toilet Fixes

Several DIY fixes can address common issues causing a running toilet and save water and money. Here are a few steps you can take to fix a running toilet:

Check the Flapper

Water will continuously leak into the bowl if the flapper is not sealing properly. Inspect the flapper for any signs of damage or debris. Cleaning or replacing it with a new one can often resolve the issue.

Adjust the Float

The float is responsible for regulating the toilet tank’s water level. If it’s set too high, water will constantly overflow into the overflow tube. Adjust the float to lower the water level to the recommended mark, usually indicated on the overflow tube.

Inspect the Fill Valve

The fill valve may sometimes malfunction, causing water to flow into the tank continuously. Check for any leaks or signs of damage. Adjusting or replacing the fill valve can help resolve this issue.

Clean the Tank

Sediment and mineral buildup in the tank can interfere with the proper functioning of toilet components. Periodically clean the tank to remove any debris or buildup that could affect the flapper, float, or fill valve performance.

Tighten Connections

Loose connections between the tank and the bowl or other components can cause leaks. Check for loose nuts or bolts and tighten them to ensure a secure connection.

Replace Seals and Gaskets

Over time, seals and gaskets in the toilet may deteriorate, leading to leaks. Inspect these components for any signs of wear or damage and replace them if necessary.

Contact the Watters Plumbing Professionals

If you’ve tried these techniques and your toilet is still running constantly, contact the Fox Cities plumbing technicians at Watters Plumbing today. We can help you determine the source of the problem and get your toilet to stop running. 

Contact us to get a quote for your toilet!