A running toilet, or a toilet that continually overflows is not only a nuisance, but can be an expensive problem to fix. Though it might seem minor, it can result in a fair amount of water waste. If your toilet is constantly running, it might be the warning sign of a bigger plumbing problem. If you suspect your toilet is running because of a minor issue, like a worn flapper, you can easily fix it yourself. However, if your toilet keeps running and you aren’t sure why, it’s important to get it checked out before other, more serious plumbing issues develop.
Common causes of a running toilet
If you suspect a running toilet, the first thing to do is check the tank for water level. If the water level is low, you may have a leak somewhere between the tank and the bowl. The most common cause of a running toilet is a faulty flapper – the rubber plug that allows water to flow from the tank to the bowl. The flapper may not be sealing properly due to a worn hinge or chain (or both), or it may be old.
Another reason why your toilet will continue to run could be the flush valve needs adjustment. The flush valve is the mechanism that flushes the toilet when you push down on the lever. If the chain on the flush valve is too far away from the bottom of the tank, it will cause the toilet to run.
Other common causes of a running toilet are: the float arm is set too low, the water level in the tank is too high, and there’s too little water pressure.
What to do if your toilet is running
A quick fix to a malfunctioning flapper is to put a plastic bag over the flapper. The bag creates a seal to the body of the toilet so that the water doesn’t flow until you flush. If the water level continues to rise or the bowl empties more slowly after flushing, it may mean that your toilet is filling up with water too fast and needs to be adjusted. The adjustment mechanism is either a screw on the side of the tank or a knob on the top of the tank.
If the problem is just that the toilet is running, but you haven’t flushed the tank, then you may have a faulty fill valve or flapper that’s allowing water to run into the tank. When you flush the toilet, the flapper should seal the tank and stop the toilet from running. The easiest way to fix a running toilet is to replace the flapper or the fill valve.
Get professional help
If your toilet won’t stop running, chances are you’re going to want to hire a plumber to fix it. Unfortunately, this is often the case with plumbing problems. The good news is that many plumbing issues are repairable and affordable.
If you have a leaking toilet, the water level in your toilet tank is rising, and it’s time to call a plumber. While most running toilets can be fixed with a little knowledge and a few simple tools, it’s best to call in a professional to do the work for you.
