What to Do: How to Stop a Toilet from Running

Is your toilet constantly running? That seemingly harmless trickle can waste a surprising amount of water and potentially increase your water bill. Fortunately, a running toilet is often caused by a relatively simple problem that you may be able to identify and fix yourself.

A toilet that keeps running typically means water is continuously flowing from the tank into the bowl. The most common culprits include a worn flapper, an improperly adjusted chain, a faulty fill valve or an incorrect water level.

Here are a few things to check before calling a plumber.

1. Check the Toilet Flapper

The flapper is the rubber or plastic valve inside the toilet tank that lifts when you flush and then seals the opening between the tank and bowl.

When the flapper doesn't create a tight seal, water can continuously leak into the bowl, causing the toilet to run.

Look inside the tank and check the flapper. If it appears warped, cracked, worn or damaged, it may need to be replaced.

You can also check the chain attached to the flapper. It should have a small amount of slack when the flapper is closed. If the chain is too tight, the flapper may not fully seal.

Try this: Adjust the chain so it isn't pulling on the flapper but isn't excessively loose either.

If the flapper is worn, replacing it is generally an inexpensive and straightforward repair.

2. Check the Toilet Chain

The chain connects the toilet handle to the flapper and allows the flapper to lift when you flush.

If the chain is too short, it may prevent the flapper from closing completely. If it's too long, it can become tangled underneath the flapper and prevent it from sealing properly.

Ideally, the chain should have a little slack — approximately ½ inch is a good starting point.

Make a small adjustment, flush the toilet and see if the flapper closes completely afterward.

3. Check the Fill Valve

If the toilet continues running after you've checked the flapper and chain, the fill valve may be the problem.

The fill valve controls the flow of water into the tank after you flush. If the tank continues filling or the valve doesn't shut off properly, water may continue flowing.

Some fill valves have an adjustable float that allows you to change the water level in the tank. If the water level is too high, try lowering the float slightly.

The water should stop filling before it reaches the top of the overflow tube.

4. Check the Overflow Tube

The overflow tube is designed to prevent the tank from overflowing. If the water level rises high enough that water is continuously flowing into the overflow tube, your toilet may continue running.

Check the water level inside the tank after the toilet has finished filling.

If water is spilling into the overflow tube, the float or fill valve may need adjustment.

Lowering the water level slightly may resolve the problem.

5. Still Running? It May Be Time to Call a Professional

Many running toilets can be resolved with a simple adjustment or inexpensive replacement part. But if you've tried these steps and your toilet still won't stop running, there may be a larger plumbing problem.

It's a good idea to call a licensed plumber if:

• The fill valve won't shut off.
• The toilet continues running after multiple adjustments.
• You notice water leaking around the base of the toilet.
• You see water leaking from the tank or supply line.
• You're unsure which component is causing the problem.
• The toilet repeatedly develops the same issue.

Ignoring a running toilet may seem harmless, but constant water loss can add up over time. Addressing the problem early can help prevent wasted water and potentially more expensive repairs.

Need Help With a Running Toilet?

If your toilet won't stop running or you're not comfortable troubleshooting it yourself, Catons Plumbing, Drains & Water Cleanup is here to help. Our experienced plumbing professionals can diagnose the problem and recommend the appropriate repair.

Don't let a running toilet run up your water bill. Contact Catons Plumbing for professional toilet repair and plumbing service.