A running toilet is more than a noisy inconvenience—it can waste gallons of water and lead to higher water bills.
Why Does My Toilet Run?
Brandon Brown
What Causes a Running Toilet?
Fortunately, most causes of a running toilet are easy to diagnose and fix. As a Tulsa plumber with years of experience, I’ll walk you through the most common causes of running toilets, how to fix them, and a few other plumbing tips to help keep your toilet in top shape.
A running toilet is usually due to one of three issues: a flapper chain problem, a dirty or broken flapper, or a float that’s out of position. Here’s how to identify and fix each of these common problems.
Cause 1 – Flapper Chain
The flapper chain connects the flush lever to the rubber flapper, which lets water flow into the toilet bowl during a flush. If this chain isn’t set up right, it can either hold the flapper open or prevent it from opening fully.
Too Short: A short chain prevents the flapper from sealing properly, causing water to constantly trickle into the bowl.
Too Long: A long chain may not fully lift the flapper, creating a weak flush.
Solution: Adjust the chain to have just a bit of slack when the flapper is closed. If needed, trim any excess chain length to avoid tangling.
Cause 2 – Dirty or Broken Flapper
Over time, a toilet’s rubber flapper can become worn or coated in debris, which may prevent it from sealing. When the flapper doesn’t seal, water keeps flowing from the tank into the bowl, causing the toilet to run constantly.
Solution: Turn off the water to the toilet, drain the tank, and inspect the flapper. If it’s dirty, clean it with a cloth. If it’s warped or cracked, take it to a store and match it with a replacement. Universal flappers work in most cases if an exact match isn’t available.
Cause 3 – Float Out of Position
The float inside the tank controls the water level. If it’s set too high, water will overflow into the overflow tube, making the toilet run. If it’s set too low, the toilet won’t flush well.
Solution: Adjust the float so it stops about an inch below the overflow tube’s rim. Older toilets might require bending the float arm, while newer models usually have a screw or clip adjustment. Test flush to ensure the float is properly positioned.
Fixing Common Toilet Problems
Running toilets can often be fixed with simple adjustments, but external leaks may require a little extra attention. Here’s how to identify and fix two types of leaks that can impact your toilet.
External Leaks: Supply Line and Fill Valve Connection
Sometimes, water may leak from where the supply line connects to the toilet or from the fill valve. This might be due to loose connections or worn-out washers.
Solution: Turn off the water, tighten the connections, and inspect for any worn or cracked washers that might need replacement. Turn the water back on to see if the leak stops.
External Leaks: Tank to Bowl Connection
Another place a toilet can leak externally is at the tank-to-bowl connection. If you notice water pooling around the base, the gasket between the tank and bowl could be worn.
Solution: Turn off the water and drain the tank. Remove the tank bolts, replace the gasket, and reassemble. Ensure everything is securely fastened to prevent future leaks.
FAQs about Running Toilets
What should I do if my toilet is still running after fixing the flapper?
If you’ve adjusted or replaced the flapper and your toilet still runs, the problem could be with the fill valve or flush valve. In some cases, these parts might need replacement to stop the leak entirely.
Is a running toilet wasting a lot of water?
Yes! A running toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water a day. Fixing it promptly can help you save on your water bill and conserve resources.
How much does it cost to fix a running toilet?
For most minor repairs, like adjusting the float or replacing a flapper, costs range between $0-$20 for parts. If the issue is complex, or if you prefer professional help, a Tulsa plumber from Spot On Plumbing can ensure it’s done quickly and correctly.
When should I call a Broken Arrow plumber for a running toilet?
If you’ve tried these steps and the toilet still runs, it might be time to call a Tulsa plumber. At Spot On Plumbing, we handle all toilet repairs quickly, so you don’t have to worry about leaks, water waste, or a growing water bill.
When it comes to toilet repairs, a little troubleshooting can go a long way. But if you ever feel stuck or the problem persists, our team at Spot On Plumbing of Broken Arrow Plumbers is here to help.