There’s nothing more frustrating than the sound of a toilet that won’t stop running. Not only is it annoying, but it’s also quietly wasting gallons of water every day—and driving up your utility bill. Whether you're dealing with a minor flapper issue or something more serious, this guide will help you figure out what’s going on, how to fix a running toilet, and when it’s time to call in a professional plumber.
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Why Is My Toilet Constantly Running?
Before diving into the fix, it's helpful to understand why your toilet is running in the first place. Most of the time, the problem lies within the tank—specifically with parts like the flapper, fill valve, or float. These components all work together to regulate the water inside your toilet tank and bowl.
Common Reasons Toilets Keep Running:
- Worn-out flapper
- Faulty fill valve
- Improper float level
- Leaky flush valve
- Corroded toilet handle or chain issues
Quick DIY Fixes for a Running Toilet
If you’re a handy homeowner, there are a few things you can try before picking up the phone. These fixes often take less than 15 minutes and require minimal tools.
1. Check the Flapper
The flapper is the rubber seal at the bottom of the tank that lifts when you flush.
What to do:
- Remove the tank lid.
- Inspect the flapper—if it looks warped, brittle, or misaligned, that’s likely the issue.
- Try cleaning it with a sponge. If it doesn’t seal properly, replace it (you can find a universal flapper at any hardware store).
2. Adjust the Chain
If the flapper chain is too short or too long, it may prevent the flapper from sealing properly.
Fix it by:
- Making sure there’s about ½ inch of slack when the flapper is closed.
- Reattaching the chain to a different hole on the flush lever if needed.
3. Lower the Float
An incorrectly positioned float can cause water to rise too high and leak into the overflow tube.
How to adjust:
- For a ball float: Bend the rod downward slightly to lower the float level.
- For a float cup: Use the adjustment screw on the fill valve to lower the float.
4. Replace the Fill Valve
If adjusting the float doesn’t solve the issue, the fill valve itself may be faulty.
Steps:
- Turn off the water supply and flush to empty the tank.
- Unscrew and remove the old fill valve.
- Install a new one following manufacturer instructions.
Most fill valve kits come with all necessary parts and simple directions.
When to Call a Plumber
While many running toilet issues are quick fixes, there are times when it’s smarter (and less stressful) to let a pro handle the problem.
Call a plumber if:
- You’ve tried all the above fixes and the toilet still runs.
- There’s visible damage or corrosion inside the tank.
- Water is leaking from the base of the toilet.
- You have an older toilet with hard-to-find parts.
- You want a long-term solution rather than a temporary fix.
Professional plumbers can not only fix a running toilet efficiently, but also spot other hidden plumbing issues that could be costing you money or damaging your home.
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How Much Does It Cost to Fix a Running Toilet?
DIY Cost:
- $5–$25 for parts like a flapper, chain, or fill valve.
- Time: 15–30 minutes for most repairs
Professional Repair Cost:
- $75–$150 for diagnosis and repair
- Costs may be higher if parts of the tank mechanism need full replacement or if your plumbing system is outdated.
Although DIY is budget-friendly, it’s not always the best option—especially if you're unsure about the cause or fix.
How to Prevent Your Toilet from Running Again
Prevention is easier (and cheaper) than repair. Here are a few maintenance tips:
- Inspect the flapper every 6–12 months for wear and tear.
- Avoid using drop-in tank cleaners—they can degrade rubber parts quickly.
- Listen for unusual sounds—early signs of a problem often come with trickling water noises.
- Replace older parts proactively instead of waiting for them to fail.
Regular maintenance helps extend the life of your toilet and keeps your water bill in check.
FAQs About Running Toilets
How long should a toilet run after flushing?
Typically, 30–60 seconds. If it runs longer, something may be wrong with the flapper or fill valve.
Is a running toilet an emergency?
While it’s not usually an emergency, it can waste a lot of water quickly. If you can’t stop the flow, turn off the water supply and call a plumber.
Can I turn off the water to my toilet?
Yes. Look for the shutoff valve behind the toilet and turn it clockwise to stop water flow.
Will a running toilet fix itself?
Unfortunately, no. Minor problems can turn into major leaks or high bills if ignored.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Let a Small Problem Drain Your Wallet
A running toilet might seem like a small issue, but it can lead to big water waste, higher bills, and unnecessary stress. While there are several quick DIY solutions, knowing when to call a professional plumber can save you time, money, and frustration.
If your toilet won’t stop running—or if you’re just tired of jiggling the handle—Trident Heating & Cooling is here to help. Our expert plumbers offer fast, affordable repairs that get the job done right the first time.
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