5 Reasons Your Toilet Keeps Running (And How to Stop It)

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A running toilet is more than just an annoyance—it can lead to higher water bills and wasted resources. If your toilet won’t stop running, it’s essential to identify the cause and fix it promptly. In this article, we’ll explore five common reasons why your toilet keeps running and provide practical solutions to resolve the issue. If you're unsure or need professional help, a plumber in Millville can ensure your plumbing system is working efficiently.



1. Faulty Flapper Valve

Why It Happens:

The flapper valve is a rubber seal that controls water flow from the tank to the bowl. Over time, it can become worn out, misaligned, or coated with debris, preventing it from sealing properly. When this happens, water continuously leaks into the bowl, causing the toilet to run non-stop.

How to Fix It:

  • Turn off the water supply to the toilet.

  • Remove the tank lid and inspect the flapper for any signs of wear or damage.

  • Clean the flapper and the area around it to ensure a tight seal.

  • If the flapper is damaged, replace it with a new one (available at most hardware stores).

  • Reattach the flapper, turn the water back on, and test the toilet.

2. Improper Chain Length

Why It Happens:

The chain connecting the flush lever to the flapper can be too short or too long. If it's too short, the flapper won’t seal properly, allowing water to leak. If it's too long, it may tangle or get stuck under the flapper, preventing it from closing.

How to Fix It:

  • Remove the tank lid and observe the chain movement during flushing.

  • Adjust the chain length by hooking it onto a different hole on the flush lever.

  • Ensure there’s enough slack for the flapper to close completely but not so much that the chain gets tangled.

  • Flush the toilet and verify that the flapper seals properly.

3. Water Level Set Too High

Why It Happens:

If the water level in the tank is set too high, water will constantly overflow into the overflow tube, causing continuous running. This not only wastes water but also puts unnecessary strain on your plumbing system.

How to Fix It:

  • Locate the water level adjustment screw on the fill valve (usually a float arm or float cup mechanism).

  • Turn the screw clockwise to lower the water level.

  • Ensure the water level is about 1 inch below the top of the overflow tube.

  • Flush the toilet and check if the issue is resolved.

4. Worn-Out Fill Valve

Why It Happens:

The fill valve controls the water flow into the tank. If it becomes worn out or damaged, it may not shut off properly, leading to continuous running water.

How to Fix It:

  • Turn off the water supply to the toilet.

  • Drain the tank by flushing the toilet.

  • Unscrew and remove the old fill valve.

  • Install a new fill valve according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

  • Turn the water back on and adjust the fill valve to the proper water level.

5. Cracked or Damaged Overflow Tube

Why It Happens:

The overflow tube prevents excess water from flooding the bathroom by directing it into the bowl. However, if the tube is cracked or damaged, water will continuously flow into the bowl, causing a running toilet.

How to Fix It:

  • Turn off the water supply and remove the tank lid.

  • Inspect the overflow tube for any cracks or damage.

  • If the tube is damaged, replace it with a new one (available at plumbing supply stores).

  • Ensure the new tube is properly installed and secured.

  • Turn the water back on and test the toilet for leaks.

When to Call a Professional Plumber

If you’ve tried these fixes and your toilet is still running, it may be time to seek professional help. Persistent running toilets can indicate deeper plumbing issues that require expert attention. A qualified plumber in Millville can quickly diagnose and resolve the problem, saving you time, water, and money.

For reliable plumbing services, trust Mr. Rooter Plumbing of South Jersey. Our experienced team is here to provide expert solutions for all your plumbing needs. Contact us today to schedule a service appointment!

Location: 204 S Laurel St, Landisville, NJ 08326, USA

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