Why Does My Toilet Keep Running?

The Flapper May Be Cracked or Worn Out 

One of the most common causes of a running toilet is a damaged flapper. The flapper is a flexible rubber or plastic piece located at the base of your toilet’s tank. It lifts when you flush to allow water to flow into the bowl. Once the flush is complete, the flapper closes to seal off the tank and hold water for the next use. Over time, flappers can wear out, crack, or lose their flexibility. When this happens, they don’t form a proper seal, which causes water to seep continuously from the tank into the bowl. This triggers the toilet’s fill valve to keep refilling the tank and leads to that frustrating running sound. To check if the flapper is the issue, turn off the water supply to your toilet and flush to empty the tank. Remove the flapper and inspect it for visible damage, like cracks or warping. If it looks worn out, replacing it is a quick and inexpensive fix. Make sure you purchase the correct size and type for your toilet. If you replace the flapper and the toilet continues to run, the problem may involve other components. A professional plumbing service can help diagnose and resolve the issue. 

The Toilet Chain Might Need Adjustment 

The toilet chain connects the handle to the flapper so you can lift it when you flush. If the chain is too long, it may not pull the flapper completely open, causing incomplete flushing and inconsistent water flow. Conversely, if the chain is too short, it can prevent the flapper from fully closing and lead to constant water flow. To adjust the chain, lift the lid of your toilet tank and observe how it operates during a flush. If there’s too much slack, shorten the chain by attaching it to a different link. If it’s too tight, lengthen it slightly to make sure the flapper can close properly. This is a simple adjustment, but if the problem persists, it could indicate a misalignment in the toilet’s internal components. A plumbing repair service will make sure everything is properly configured and operating as it should. 

The Float Arm or Ball Might Be Out of Position 

The float arm or float ball controls the amount of water that fills the tank after a flush. If the float is set too high, the tank may overfill, and excess water will flow into the overflow tube, causing continuous running. If it’s set too low, the tank won’t fill enough, leading to weak flushes and inefficiency. To fix this, check the position of the float. For older toilets with a float ball, you can adjust it by gently bending the float arm downward or upward. For newer models with a float cup, look for the adjustment screw near the fill valve and turn it to raise or lower the water level. If adjusting the float doesn’t solve the issue, the fill valve may be damaged or malfunctioning. At this point, it’s a good idea to call a plumber for a more thorough inspection.

The Refill Tube Could Be Misaligned or Leaking 

The refill tube is a small, flexible tube that connects the fill valve to the overflow tube inside the tank. If the refill tube is inserted too far into the overflow tube, it can create a siphoning effect that continuously drains water from the tank. To fix this, check the placement of the refill tube. It should be secured above the overflow tube, not submerged in it. Repositioning the tube is usually enough to fix the problem. If the tube is worn or damaged, you may need to replace it. Persistent problems with the refill tube may indicate a larger issue with the fill valve or other components. A plumbing repair service can perform a detailed inspection and ensure your toilet operates efficiently. 

When to Consider Replacing Your Toilet 

If your toilet is older or you’re experiencing frequent problems, it might be time to consider a toilet replacement. While most running toilet issues can be fixed with minor repairs, a replacement is sometimes the best long-term solution. Older toilets tend to be less water-efficient, which can contribute to higher water bills. Upgrading to a newer model can save water and reduce costs. Rooter Hero Plumbing & Air offers dependable toilet replacement services to make the process simple. Our team will help you choose a model that fits your needs and budget, and we’ll handle the installation from start to finish. 

Are You Looking for Local Plumbers Who Can Help?

If your toilet keeps running or you’re dealing with any other plumbing issue, don’t let it stress you out. Call Rooter Hero Plumbing & Air for a quality plumbing service you can trust. Whether you need a simple toilet repair, routine plumbing maintenance, or a full toilet replacement, we’re here to provide solutions that last. Contact us to schedule an appointment.