A constantly running toilet is not just a nuisance. It can increase your water bill and potentially lead to bigger plumbing issues if it's not addressed. Some problems that cause a toilet to run constantly can be easily fixed by a homeowner.
Some problems with a constantly running toilet require calling a plumbing professional for toilet repair in Springfield Missouri.
Understanding the most common causes and solutions can help you decide when you can tackle the issue yourself and when it's time to call in the experts.
Faulty Flapper
The flapper is the plug that allows the water in your toilet tank to flow into the bowl. When you press on the toilet handle, it raises the flapper, allowing the clean water from the tank to push the wastewater down the drain.
Since flappers are made of rubber, they can wear down over time and allow water to leak from the tank. Thankfully, flappers are easy and inexpensive to simply replace.
Inspecting the flapper for signs of wear or damage is a good first step. If it looks compromised, replacing the flapper is a simple and cost-effective fix that most homeowners can perform on their own. Ensure you turn off the water supply to the toilet and empty the tank before starting this repair.
Faulty Float
Have you ever wondered how your toilet tank knows when to stop filling with water after a flush? That’s due to the float, which rises along with the water in the tank as it refills. Once it reaches a certain level, it will cut the water flow off.
Sometimes, the float level will be set too high and it can cause water to flow over the overflow tube and continuously run so the water won’t cut off at the proper time. You can adjust the float and lower the height setting as needed.
Chunky Chain
Your toilet’s chain connects the flush lever to the flapper. When you flush the toilet, the chain pulls up the flapper and empties the tank. If the chain is too long, it can get in the way of the flapper after a flush and not allow the flapper to seal properly.
Take the lid off the toilet tank and flush the toilet a few times to make sure the toilet chain isn't interfering with the flapper sealing properly after a flush.
Faulty Fill Valve
The toilet fill valve is responsible for refilling the tank after a flush. Over time, the fill valve can malfunction. If adjusting the float doesn't stop the toilet from running, the fill valve might need to be replaced.
This is a bit more complex than replacing the flapper or adjusting the float or the toilet chain and probably better handled by calling a plumber for toilet repair to replace it.
Sometimes the problem with a constantly running toilet might be less visible and more challenging to diagnose, such as a leak in the tank itself or a problem with the toilet's plumbing.
If you've attempted the most common fixes without success, or if you're not comfortable performing these tasks, it's time to call in the plumbing experts.
The toilet repair experts at United Plumbing can diagnose less obvious issues, like cracks in the tank or problems with the water line, that require specialized knowledge and tools to repair.
And if your toilet is older or if you encounter recurring problems, a professional plumber can advise whether repair or replacement is the most cost-effective solution.
When the problem with a constantly running toilet is beyond your comfort level, enlisting the help of our professional plumbers is the best course of action for toilet repair.
Not only can we provide a long-lasting solution, but we can save you from potential water damage and further expenses down the line.
United Plumbing is available 24/7 to help with toilet repair, toilet clogs, toilet installation or whatever plumbing problems you’re dealing with.