Why Is My Toilet Water Running? Common Causes and Fixes

Is your toilet water running when it shouldn't be? If that’s the case, then you really start looking for solutions. Since the winter season is just around the corner, now is the perfect time to fix those annoying toilet issues and gear up for a stress-free holiday season.

It's not just annoying; it can waste water, hike up your utility bills, and put a wench in the Christmas plans you worked so hard to prepare.

In this blog post, we'll explain why your toilet might be running and show you how to spot the signs of an issue. We'll also let you know when it's best to call in the pros, especially if things aren’t getting better or the plumbing problems are bigger than expected.

Why Is My Toilet Water Running?

If your toilet is constantly running, it’s not just a minor inconvenience. It's a drain on both water resources and your wallet. The constant sound of water can be frustrating, often leading to higher water bills and unnecessary waste. But don’t worry; figuring out what's causing it can help you fix it and save some money as well as a big headache.

Let’s dive into the common reasons your toilet won't stop running.

Faulty or Worn-Out Flapper

One of the most common reasons a toilet won't stop running water is due to a faulty or worn-out flapper.

When you flush, the flapper lifts to allow water to flow into the bowl, and then it closes to let the tank refill. But over time, it can wear out or get misaligned, which means it doesn't seal properly anymore.

In such situations, we always recommend you to get the service from a professional toilet repair service near you.

If you are facing this issue, you might notice constantly running water or hear a hissing sound. Plus, there may be a chance of the toilet cistern leaking into bowl even when you're not using it. This is not only annoying but also leads to bigger and more costly water bills.

How to Fix Issues with the Flapper?

• Step 1 - Turn off the water supply to your toilet to prevent toilet water running.
• Step 2 - Remove the tank lid carefully and inspect the flapper inside the water tank for any sign of damage, like cracks or warping.
• Step 3 - If the flapper seems worn or damaged, replace it with a new one, which you can easily buy from local hardware stores. Make sure you choose a flapper that is compatible with your current toilet model.
• Step 4 - After installing the new flapper, ensure it seals properly by testing if the toilet still running after flush. See if the water stops running to confirm that you did a successful fix.

Incorrect Float Height

The float is an adjustable component whose job is to control the water level inside the toilet tank. If it's set too high, water will overflow into the overflow tube, resulting in toilet water running constantly. This not only wastes water but it can also wear out your toilet’s parts faster than you'd like.

If your float height is off, you might notice water continuously spilling into the overflow tube, weak flushes because there's not enough water pressure, or the toilet bowl keeps running after each flush.

How to Fix Incorrect Float Height?

• Step 1 - Adjust the float by moving it lower. This adjustment can typically be done by turning a screw on the top of the fill valve. If your toilet uses a ballcock valve, bend the arm slowly to lower the float.
• Step 2 - Flush the toilet to test if the water stops running and if the float adjustment has fixed the issue.
• Step 3 - Be sure the water level is about an inch below the overflow tube opening. This will guarantee the optimal water usage and stop any overflows and toilet water running.

Damaged Fill Valve

The fill valve handles the water flow to your water tank after each flush. A damaged fill valve can result in the toilet bowl running. This will lead to increased water consumption that will directly affect the water bill costs of your home.

If you hear a hissing sound coming from your toilet, it might be a sign that your fill valve has issues and water is leaking onto the bowl. A faulty fill valve can also affect water levels and make your flushes less effective.

How to Fix Incorrect Float Height?

• Step 1 - Shut off the water supply. Then, remove the top of the toilet tank to access the fill valve.
• Step 2 - Take a closer look at the fill valve for signs of damage or wear, like cracks or fitting losses.
• Step 3 - If you find the fill valve damaged, replace it by following the manufacturer's instructions. Just make sure all connections are tight to avoid any future leaks.
• Step 4 - Turn the water back on and test the flush to confirm that the fill valve is functioning correctly without any hissing noises and no toilet water running issues.

Worn or Misaligned Flush Valve Seal

The flush valve seal is a round rubber seal that is key for preventing the toilet cistern from leaking into the bowl and keeping everything working smoothly. If it gets worn out or misaligned, you might run into problems like inefficiencies and increased water usage.

How to Fix Issues with a Flush Valve?

• Step 1 - Turn off the water to the toilet to stop additional leakage.
• Step 2 - Remove the tank lid and inspect the flush valve seal for issues like signs of wear, cracks a misshapen appearance, or improper alignment.
• Step 3 - If the seal is worn, purchase a new one and replace it. Ensure the new seal is correctly aligned for a tight fit and secure it in place.
• Step 4 - Flush the toilet to test if the issue is resolved and check for any leaks around the seal. If the water flow stops and we can’t see any sign of toilet water running, the replacement is successful.

Cracked or Faulty Overflow Tube

The overflow tube in your toilet's tank is like a safety net. If the fill valve goes haywire, this little tube steps in to keep water from spilling over by guiding the extra water straight into the bowl. It keeps the tank from overfilling, which means no messy water damage and a toilet that runs smoothly and safely.

How to Fix Faulty Overflow Tube?

• Step 1 - Carefully inspect the overflow tube for any visible cracks or damage. Use a flashlight to check for any hard-to-see areas if you are having a hard time.
• Step 2 - If you find any cracks, gently remove the damaged overflow tube from its position, ensuring you don't damage surrounding components.
• Step 3 - Get a new overflow tube that matches the specifications of the old one. Install it in place, ensuring it fits securely.
• Step 4 - Make sure the new overflow tube is correctly aligned with the fill tube to prevent any water leaks or operational issues. Adjust as needed for proper alignment and prevent any toilet water running opportunities.

Sediment Buildup

Sediment buildup in your toilet tank happens when minerals and debris pile up over time, usually because of hard water. This can cause a few headaches, like messing with the fill valve and flapper, lowering efficiency, possibly damaging parts, and using more water. Eventually, you'll need to roll up your sleeves for some cleaning or maintenance.

Signs of sediment buildup in a toilet can show signs like discoloured water and reduced flushing power. You might also notice a slow refill, unusual noises during flushing, or visible mineral deposits around the waterline.

How to Fix Sediment Buildup?

• Step 1 - Locate the shut-off valve behind your toilet and turn it clockwise to stop the flow of toilet water running.
• Step 2 - Flush the toilet to empty it to stop toilet water running. Use something like a sponge or towel to soak up any remaining water at the bottom.
• Step 3 - Scrub the inside of the tank with a brush and a mixture of vinegar and baking soda. This will help remove sediment and mineral buildup.
• Step 4 - If hard water is common in your area, installing a water softener can help prevent future sediment buildup by reducing mineral deposits in your water.

Toilet Issues with the Chains

Sometimes, the chain connected to the flapper in your toilet isn't adjusted just right. It might be too long or too short, which can mess with how the flapper works. This little hiccup can lead to your toilet not working as efficiently as it should, possibly using more water than necessary. So, getting that chain adjusted properly is vital to keeping things running smoothly.

If your toilet isn't flushing correctly, it might be due to chain issues. Signs also include the chain being too loose or tangled, preventing the flapper from sealing or opening fully.

How to Fix Toilet Issues with the Chains?

• Step 1 - Open the toilet tank and check the chain connected to the flapper. Look for any signs of damage, tangling, or incorrect length.
• Step 2 - If the chain is too long, it might get caught under the flapper. Adjust its length by removing a few links or reattaching it to a different hole on the flush lever to ensure the flapper can close completely.
• Step 3 - After adjusting, flush the toilet to ensure the flapper closes properly without obstruction. The chain must have a slight slack after the flapper is closed.
• Step 4 - If the chain is damaged or tangled beyond repair, purchase a replacement chain from a hardware store and attach it in the same manner as the original to put a stop to toilet water running.

Preventing Toilet Issues

Prevention is better than fixing, and there are several steps you can take to avoid future troubles like the toilet keeps running.

Regular Maintenance

Keep your toilet in top shape by doing regular maintenance checks. Take a look at the flapper, fill valve, and other parts inside to make sure everything's working well. Look for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, leaks, or corrosion, that can cause toilet water running. Swapping out worn parts can prevent more significant issues down the line, saving you time, money, and headaches like the toilet still running after flush.

Adjust Water Pressure

High water pressure can put unnecessary strain on your toilet's internal components, leading to premature wear and tear.

This simple change can extend the lifespan of your toilet's mechanics significantly, reducing the frequency of repairs and ensuring a more efficient flushing system.

Use Quality Parts

When it comes to replacing any toilet parts, always opt for quality components. Sure, cheaper parts might seem like a better deal, but they often wear out faster and can lead to more problems like frequent repairs and higher costs over time by causing toilet water running randomly. Check out our blog, The Ultimate Guide to Toilet Repair, to learn about common toilet issues and how to address them effectively.

When to Call a Professional

Fixing toilet issues yourself can be a great way to save time and money, whether you're dealing with clogs or minor leaks. But sometimes, stubborn problems need a professional touch. If you've tried a bunch of DIY tricks and your toilet's still running, it might be a more complicated problem like a faulty fill valve or flapper. That's when it's worth calling in a plumber since they've got the know-how and tools to sort it out quickly.

Professional plumbers offer several benefits:

• Quickly and accurately identify problems, saving you time and frustration.
• Ensure issues are resolved correctly to prevent recurrence.
• Use the right tools to handle tricky situations safely and efficiently.
• Reduce the risk of further damage.
• Trusting a plumber provides peace of mind with expert care for your plumbing system.
• Professional help can be more cost-effective by avoiding unnecessary repairs or replacements.

How Serviceteam Can Help

Need a reliable and affordable plumber within the London area? Serviceteam has transparent pricing and no hidden fees for you.

If we can’t figure out the issue in that time, you won’t have to pay a penny.

FAQs

How to stop toilet water running?

Check for a faulty flapper, adjust the float, or tighten the fill valve. If unsure, consult a local plumber to ensure efficient water usage in your London home.

How much water does a running toilet waste?

If the toilet keeps running, it can waste up to 200 litres daily, costing London households in both water bills and environmental impact. Addressing the issue quickly helps conserve water and reduce unnecessary expenses.

Can a running toilet cause damage?

Yes. While it primarily wastes water, a running toilet can eventually cause damage to the floor or surrounding areas due to potential leaks. Additionally, it increases water expenses unnecessarily.

When should I call a plumber for a running toilet?

If basic troubleshooting, like adjusting the flapper or float, doesn't resolve the issue, or if you notice any leaks, unfamiliar sounds, or your toilet water running constantly, it's advisable to call a professional plumber.