If your toilet is always running, we have some ideas on what the problem could be and how to fix it.
If your toilet always seems to be running, it is more than an annoying background noise. A running toilet can waste a significant amount of water, increase your utility bills, and indicate that an internal component needs attention. Fortunately, many causes are easy for a professional plumber to identify and repair.
Common Reasons Your Toilet Is Always Running
A toilet continues running when water flows into the tank or bowl after the flushing cycle should be complete. Several common problems can cause this issue.
A Worn or Damaged Flapper
The flapper is a rubber seal at the bottom of the toilet tank. It lifts when you flush, allowing water to enter the bowl. Once the tank empties, the flapper should close and create a watertight seal.
Over time, the flapper can become warped, cracked, or coated with mineral buildup. Water then leaks slowly into the bowl, causing the fill valve to turn on repeatedly. Replacing the flapper often solves the problem.
An Improperly Adjusted Flapper Chain
The chain connecting the flush handle to the flapper needs a small amount of slack. If it is too short, the flapper may not close completely. If it is too long, the chain can become trapped underneath the flapper.
Adjusting or replacing the chain may stop the toilet from running.
A Faulty Fill Valve
The fill valve controls the flow of water into the toilet tank. When it becomes worn or damaged, it may continue allowing water into the tank after the proper level has been reached.
You may hear a constant hissing sound when the fill valve is the source of the problem. A plumber can determine whether the valve needs an adjustment or complete replacement.
An Incorrect Water Level
If the tank’s water level is set too high, excess water will continuously drain into the overflow tube. The water level should generally sit about one inch below the top of the tube.
The float may need to be adjusted to lower the water level. However, an older or damaged float mechanism may need to be replaced.
A Cracked Overflow Tube
The overflow tube prevents the tank from overfilling. A crack in the tube can allow water to leak into the bowl, keeping the toilet’s filling system active. Fixing this issue typically requires replacing the flush valve assembly.
How to Check for a Hidden Toilet Leak
Add a few drops of food coloring to the toilet tank and wait about 20 minutes without flushing. If colored water appears in the bowl, water is leaking from the tank. This simple test can confirm a problem, although it may not identify the exact component responsible.
When Should You Call a Plumber?
Some toilet repairs appear simple but can become more complicated when parts are corroded, improperly sized, or difficult to access. You should contact a plumber if the toilet keeps running after basic adjustments, water appears around its base, the tank is damaged, or the toilet frequently clogs.
Ignoring a toilet that is always running can lead to unnecessary water waste and higher monthly bills. Mahon Plumbing can inspect the toilet, identify the underlying cause, and complete the necessary repair.
Call Mahon Plumbing Today
If you still have more questions regarding your plumbing, we here at Mahon Plumbing are here to help. We have been serving the wider Baltimore area since 1994, so we have 25 years of experience to back up our fantastic service! Call us at our Baltimore location at 410-766-8566 or our Pasadena location at 410-636-7944. Be sure to keep up with us on social media by following us on Facebook or Twitter.