Why Is My Toilet Running Nonstop? Common Causes & Easy Fixes
A running toilet is more than just an annoying sound—it can waste hundreds of gallons of water and increase your utility bill. Homeowners in the Rancho Cucamonga area often ask us, “Why won’t my toilet stop running?”
The good news is that most causes are simple and inexpensive to fix. Bow Tie Pluming & Rooter will break down the most common reasons your Rancho Cucamonga area toilet keeps running and how to solve them.
1. Faulty Flapper: The Most Common Culprit
The rubber flapper inside your toilet tank controls the water flow from the tank to the bowl. When you flush, the flapper lifts, allowing water to pass through. Once the tank empties, it should seal properly to stop the flow.
Signs Your Flapper Needs Replacing
- Your toilet runs constantly or sporadically.
- You hear water trickling long after flushing.
- Jiggling the flush handle temporarily stops the running.
If you are like most, you just jiggle it a little bit and it fixes. But what happens if one of your kids or significant other forgets? You’ll get that larger than expected water bill!
How to Fix It
- Turn off the water supply to your toilet.
- Remove the tank lid and inspect the flapper for wear, cracks, or warping.
- If damaged, replace it with a universal or brand-specific toilet flapper.
- Reattach the new flapper, ensuring a snug seal.
- Turn the water back on and test the flush.
2. Flapper Chain Issues
The chain connects the flush handle to the flapper. If it’s too long or too short, the flapper won’t seal properly, causing the toilet to run.
How to Fix It
- If the chain is too long, trim the excess so there’s just enough slack for the flapper to close fully.
- If it’s too short, replace it with a slightly longer one to allow full movement.
3. Float Problems: Water Level Too High or Low
The float regulates how much water refills the tank. If set too high, excess water spills into the overflow tube, causing continuous running.
How to Adjust the Float
- If you have a ball float, gently bend the arm downward to lower the water level.
- If you have a cup float, adjust the screw or slide mechanism to lower the fill level.
4. Leaky Fill Valve
The fill valve controls water entering the tank after a flush. If it’s malfunctioning, it may not shut off completely, leading to constant running.
How to Fix It
- Inspect the fill valve for leaks or improper shutoff.
- If water keeps flowing, replace the fill valve with a new one.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation.
5. Cracked Overflow Tube
The overflow tube prevents the tank from overfilling. If it’s cracked, water continuously leaks into the bowl, causing a running toilet.
How to Fix It
- If the tube is damaged, it will need to be replaced, which may require a new flush valve assembly.
6. High Water Pressure
Excessively high water pressure can cause the fill valve to malfunction, leading to continuous running.
How to Fix It
- Install a water pressure regulator on your home’s main line if needed.
- Adjust the toilet’s shutoff valve slightly to reduce flow.
Frequently Asked Questions About Running Toilets
How Much Water Does a Running Toilet Waste?
A continuously running toilet can waste up to 200 gallons per day, adding significant costs to your water bill.
Can a Running Toilet Cause Damage?
Beyond wasting water, a persistent leak can lead to mold, mildew, and water damage in severe cases.
Should I Call a Plumber?
Most running toilet issues are easy to fix, but if you’ve tried these solutions and your toilet is still running, it may be time to call a plumber for professional repair.
How To Prevent Future Running Toilet Problems
- Check the flapper regularly for signs of wear.
- Clean the fill valve and flush components to prevent buildup.
- Monitor your water bill for unexpected increases, which could indicate a silent leak.
- Use high-quality replacement parts to extend the life of your toilet’s internal mechanisms.
A running toilet is usually a simple fix, and in most cases, Rancho Cucamonga homeowners can resolve it themselves with minimal tools. By understanding what causes your toilet to keep running and how to troubleshoot each issue, you can save water, lower your bills, and keep your bathroom functioning properly.
Need professional plumbing help? Contact Bow Tie Plumbing & Rooter at 909-804-8000 or send us your questions online. Our licensed plumbers can help if your your toilet keeps running despite these fixes.