We’ve all been there – the toilet flushes, but instead of quietly refilling the tank, the water just keeps running. At first, you think it might stop on its own, but before long, it’s clear something’s wrong. Not only is it frustrating to listen to, but it’s also wasting water (and money). If your toilet water keeps running, don’t panic – we’ve got you covered with simple, actionable steps to get it sorted.
Before you can fix the problem, it’s important to know what’s causing it. The good news? Most of the time, it’s a straightforward issue.
The flapper valve is a key player in your toilet’s flush mechanism. It’s the rubber piece that lifts when you flush, allowing water to flow from the tank into the bowl. If it doesn’t close properly, water will continue to leak into the bowl, and the tank won’t refill as it should.
The fill valve controls the flow of water into the tank after you flush. If it’s not working properly, it can cause the water to run continuously. Sometimes, it’s a simple adjustment; other times, the valve might need replacing.
The chain connecting the flapper to the flush handle might seem insignificant, but if it’s too long or too short, it can stop the flapper from sealing properly. This tiny detail often goes unnoticed but can make a big difference.
The overflow tube helps prevent your toilet tank from overflowing. If water is constantly spilling into the tube, it might mean the water level is set too high, or there’s an issue with the fill valve.
Over time, mineral deposits from hard water can build up on the various parts inside your toilet tank. This can prevent them from working as intended, leading to a running toilet.
Now that you have an idea of what might be wrong, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and fix it. Don’t worry – you don’t need to be a plumbing expert to tackle most of these problems.
Start by lifting the tank lid and taking a look at the flapper valve. Does it look worn or warped? If so, it’s probably time for a replacement. You can find flapper valves at most hardware stores, and they’re usually easy to swap out. If it seems fine, check that it’s sealing properly when the tank refills.
The fill valve might just need a bit of tweaking. There’s usually a screw or a float you can adjust to set the water level. The water should sit about an inch below the top of the overflow tube when the tank is full.
If the chain is too long, it can get caught under the flapper, preventing it from closing. If it’s too short, it can stop the flapper from opening all the way. Adjust the chain so it has just enough slack to lift the flapper without interfering.
If water is spilling into the overflow tube, try lowering the water level by adjusting the fill valve. If that doesn’t work, there might be an issue with the tube itself. Inspect it for cracks or blockages and replace it if necessary.
Mineral deposits can often be removed with a bit of white vinegar and a soft brush. For stubborn buildup or damaged parts, replacement is the best option.
You won’t need a toolbox full of gadgets for this job, but having the right tools and materials on hand can make things easier.
A screwdriver, pliers, and a sponge should be enough for most minor fixes. If you’re dealing with mineral buildup, grab some white vinegar and an old toothbrush.
Depending on the issue, you might need a new flapper valve, fill valve, or chain. These are inexpensive and widely available.
Sometimes, no matter how hard you try, the toilet just won’t stop running. When that happens, it’s time to bring in a professional.
If you’ve gone through all the steps above and the problem persists, it could be a sign of a deeper issue. A plumber can diagnose and fix the problem before it leads to bigger (and more expensive) repairs.
Not all toilets are created equal. If you’ve got a more advanced system or you’re unsure about making adjustments, it’s best to leave it to the experts - you can always rely on our blocked drain experts in North London at FS Drainage to ensure your toilet and plumbing are in top shape.
A toilet that keeps running isn’t just annoying – it’s an unnecessary drain on your water bill. The good news is that most of these problems are easy to fix, whether it’s adjusting a valve, replacing a flapper, or giving your tank a good clean. If you’re ever unsure, don’t hesitate to ask for professional help. Curious about how your toilet system actually works? Check out our guide on how toilets work for a deeper dive.
Taking the time to fix a running toilet now will save you plenty of hassle later. So, next time you hear that frustrating sound, you’ll know exactly what to do.
