Running Toilet Causes & Solutions

Why Is My Toilet Running? Common Causes and Solutions

Are you perplexed by a toilet that won’t stop running? Not only is it annoying but also wasting water and driving up your water bill. A running toilet is a common household plumbing problem and the cause of frequent service calls. The good news is that many causes of a toilet that won’t shut off are simple, and you can easily fix them yourself. Let’s take a look at a few.

Check the Flapper

The flapper may be stuck and not closing properly. When that happens, the tank can’t fill up, so the toilet continues to run. Open the tank and see if the chain attached to the flapper is caught or stuck. If so, simply straighten out the chain, and the flapper should close. Flappers wear out and frequently need to be replaced. Check the flapper to see if it has holes or is stretched out. You can remove the flapper and take it to a hardware or big box store so you can find the correct replacement part. Simply replace the flapper, and your toilet should stop running.

Check the Float Ball

The float ball in the toilet tank regulates the water level. You can test the float ball by removing the lid from the toilet tank and lifting the float arm. If the toilet stops running, then the problem is the float ball. The float ball may need to be replaced, or it may be set too high. There should be a water level line inscribed on the side of the toilet tank. Flush the toilet and, as the tank refills, see if the water reaches or exceeds the recommended level. If so, you can reset the float level. There are plenty of DIY tutorials online that will walk you through the process.

Blockage

There could be a block somewhere in the toilet or water line. When that occurs, the toilet will keep running to clear the block. You can try to clear the toilet by using a snake auger or plunger. If that doesn’t work, you will need to call a plumber. One way to prevent internal blockages is to make sure that you are only flushing human waste and toilet paper down the toilet. Do not flush disposable diapers, feminine hygiene products, cat litter, cigarette butts, or any other items down the toilet. External blockages, such as those involving the sewer line, will need to be addressed by a professional.

High Water Pressure

If the water pressure in your home is too high, it could cause the toilet to continuously run. To remedy this, contact the water department in your municipality to see if they can adjust the water pressure. You can also install a toilet pressure-reducing valve. However, unless you are adept at plumbing repairs, this task is best left to the pros.

Call Atlas Butler for Plumbing Service

If you have a toilet that won’t stop running and your troubleshooting hasn’t resolved the problem, or you aren’t confident in your DIY skills, contact Atlas Butler at 1-800-FURNACE. One of our plumbers will look at your toilet, figure out the problem, and work to get your toilet to stop running. You’ll be rewarded with peace and quiet and lower water bills!