Complete Guide: Why Is My Toilet Running and How to Fix It?

Nov 04, 2022

So you're wondering "why is my toilet running"? If your toilet is constantly running, you're not alone. This is a common plumbing problem that many homeowners face. There are several reasons why your toilet might be running, and it's important to identify the cause so that you can fix the problem. In this blog post, we will discuss the most common reasons why toilets keep running and how to fix them!

It's important to make sure your toilet is operating properly because it can save you money on your water bill and it's important for the environment. A running toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water per day, which is a lot of water that could be saved. Fixing a running toilet is an easy way to conserve water and save money.

Here are 4 reasons your toilet is running and how to fix them:

1. There may be a blockage in your toilet's plumbing system. This is one of the most common reasons why toilets run constantly, and it can usually be fixed by flushing strong toilet cleaner down your toilet's drain to clear out any clogs or debris that might be causing the problem.

If you're experiencing a blockage in your toilet, the first step is to identify the source of the clog. To do this, try pouring a bucket of water into your toilet's bowl to see if the water drains properly. If it doesn't, that means there's a blockage somewhere in your plumbing system that needs to be cleared.

The best way to clear a blockage is by using a plunger. Simply place the plunger over the drain in your toilet and push and pull the plunger up and down until the clog is dislodged. Once the clog is cleared, the water should start draining properly again.

If plunging doesn't work, you can try using a plumber's snake to clear the blockage. This is a long metal cable that can be inserted into your drain to clear out any clogs or debris.

2. Your toilet may need repairs if there is a leak in its water supply line or other components. A toilet that runs constantly could indicate a larger plumbing issue, so it's important to call a plumber to inspect and repair any damaged parts as soon as possible.

If you're experiencing a leak in your toilet's water supply line, the first step is to identify the source of the leak. To do this, try pouring a bucket of water into your toilet's bowl to see if the water level rises. If it does, that means there's a leak in your water supply line and you will need to fix it.

The best way to fix a leaking water supply line is by using plumber's tape. Simply wrap plumber's tape around the leaky joint until it is sealed. If the leak is coming from a threaded fitting, you can also use plumber's tape to cover the threads of the fitting until it is tight.

If plumber's tape doesn't work, you can try using a sealant or putty to seal the leaky joint. However, these methods are not as effective as plumber's tape and should only be used as a last resort.

It's also important to check all of your other toilet components for leaks, such as the tank, flush valve, and gasket. If you find any leaks, repairs may be necessary and should be performed by a plumber.

3. Sometimes minor adjustments are all that is needed to get your toilet running smoothly again. For example, you may just need to adjust the float in your toilet tank to prevent your toilet from running too often.

If your toilet is running constantly, one of the first things you should check is the float. This is a small device that sits in your toilet tank and controls the water level in your tank. If the float is not set properly, it can cause your toilet to run constantly.

To adjust the float, first find the adjustment screw on the float arm. This is a small screw that can be turned with a screwdriver to adjust the height of the float. Once you've found it, turn it clockwise to raise the float or counterclockwise to lower it.

Once you've raised or lowered the float to the correct height, test your toilet again to see if it's still running. If it is, you may need to adjust it again until you find the right setting that stops your toilet from running excessively.

4. The flapper valve in your toilet may be malfunctioning and not closing properly, which can cause your toilet to run constantly.

If your toilet is running constantly, the flapper valve may be the problem. This is a small device in your toilet tank that controls the flow of water in and out of your tank. If the flapper valve is not working properly, it can cause your toilet to run constantly.

To adjust or replace the toilet flapper, first find the flap on the bottom of your tank. This is the part of the flapper valve that opens and closes to allow water into and out of your tank. If the flap is not closing properly, it can cause your toilet to run constantly.

To adjust the flap, first find the adjustment screw on the side of the flap. This is a small screw that can be turned with a screwdriver to adjust the height of the flap. Once you've found it, turn it clockwise to raise the flap or counterclockwise to lower it.

If adjusting the height of the flap doesn't fix the problem, you may need to replace it entirely. To do this, remove the old flapper valve by unscrewing it from its hinge points. Then insert a new flapper valve into its place and screw it back into place. Make sure that it is properly aligned with its hinge points before tightening it down.

If none of these tips help to solve your toilet woes, it's possible that there is something wrong with your toilet's internal workings. In this case, you may need to replace the entire toilet unit or call in a professional plumber like Patriot Plumbing for help.

At Patriot Plumbing, we understand that a running toilet can be a major inconvenience. That's why we offer fast and effective repairs to get your toilet repaired and operating correctly again. We have the experience and expertise to diagnose and solve any toilet-related problem, whether it's a leaky tank, a malfunctioning flapper valve, or something else entirely. We also carry a wide range of replacement parts in our inventory, so we can usually fix your toilet on the spot.

If you're having problems with your running toilet, don't wait – call Patriot Plumbing today! We'll have your toilet running smoothly... or not running (pun intended) again in no time.

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