Reasons a Toilet Runs

Unless someone flushes the toilet, this plumbing fixture should sit silently, awaiting its next use. If your toilet won’t stop filling or occasionally flushes itself, it’s time to act. Fortunately, fixing a running toilet is usually fairly easy. And if you run into problems, you can always call Expert Plumbing Service.

Why Does My Toilet Keep Running?

A running toilet is frustrating. You flush, expecting peace and quiet to quickly follow, but instead, the water keeps running long after it should have stopped. This constant flow may be caused by a few different issues, ranging from a stuck handle or misadjusted float to system-wide problems like high water pressure or a plumbing blockage. Whatever the cause, the good news is that most fixes are simple and don’t require specialized plumbing tools or know-how.

How to Fix a Toilet That Keeps Running

If you’re ready to troubleshoot and fix the problem yourself, go down this list to tackle the most likely reasons a toilet runs.

Stuck Handle or Button

Sometimes, the flush handle gets stuck in the down position, keeping the flapper open and allowing water to continue flowing into the bowl.

Try jiggling the handle to see if it loosens. If that doesn’t work, lift the toilet tank lid and check the chain connecting the handle to the flapper. It may be too tight, holding the flapper open, or too loose, catching under the flapper and preventing it from closing fully. Adjusting the chain length often solves the problem. If the handle itself is sticking, you may need to loosen the mounting nut inside the tank or replace the handle entirely.

Wondering how to fix a running toilet with a button flush​ instead of a traditional handle? First, remove the lid and check if the button mechanism is sticking. If so, clean around the button to remove debris. If the flush valve isn’t sealing properly, you may need to replace it with a new one designed for button-flush toilets.

High Water Pressure

Excessive water pressure might seem like a good thing, but it can actually cause plumbing problems, including a malfunctioning fill valve. If the pressure is too high, the fill valve may not shut off properly, leading to continuous water flow.

To test your water pressure, use a pressure gauge on an outdoor spigot. If it reads above 80 psi, your home’s water pressure is too high. Installing a pressure-reducing valve on the main water supply line regulates the flow and protects your plumbing.

Misadjusted Float

The float in your toilet tank controls how much water enters after each flush. If it’s set too high, the water will keep flowing into the overflow tube, creating a never-ending refill cycle.

To adjust the float, locate the adjustment screw near the fill valve. Lower the float slightly so the water level stops about an inch below the overflow tube. If you have an older toilet with a float ball, gently bend the arm downward to lower the water level.

Worn Flapper

The flapper is a rubber seal that controls water flow from the tank to the bowl. It may deteriorate, warp, or become coated in mineral deposits after years of use, preventing it from sealing properly. When this happens, water leaks into the bowl and may cause “phantom flushing.”

Turn off the water supply, flush the toilet to drain the tank, and remove the old flapper. Take it with you to the hardware store to ensure you buy the right replacement. Install the new flapper according to the package instructions, then turn the water back on and test the flush.

Incorrect Refill Tube Length

The refill tube directs water from the fill valve into the overflow tube. If it’s too long or inserted too far into the overflow tube, the resulting siphoning effect may lead to continuous water flow.

Check the refill tube’s placement. It should sit just above the overflow tube, not inside it. If it’s too long, trim it slightly to prevent water from continuously cycling.

Blockages

A partial blockage in your toilet’s plumbing or vent system can create pressure imbalances, which might cause the toilet to run or make gurgling noises.

Try plunging the toilet to remove minor clogs. If that doesn’t work, use a plumbing snake or auger to clear deeper obstructions. If you notice bubbling in the toilet when using other plumbing fixtures, you may have a more significant issue requiring a plumber’s help.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my toilet bubbling when the shower is running?

If your toilet bubbles while the shower is on, you likely have a drainage or venting issue. A clog in the sewer line or vent stack can trap air in the plumbing, forcing it to escape through the toilet when water flows down the shower drain. This issue may require professional drain cleaning or vent line inspection.

How much water can a running toilet use?

A running toilet can waste an astonishing amount of water—up to 200 gallons per day! That adds up to 6,000 gallons a month. Fixing the problem quickly is the best way to prevent skyrocketing water bills.

Can a running toilet increase my water bill?

Absolutely! Since a running toilet continuously uses water, it’s like flushing money down the drain. If left unchecked, it could add hundreds of dollars to your annual utility bills.

Schedule Expert Toilet Repair

While some running toilet problems are easy to fix, others require a professional touch. Expert Plumbing Service has spent over 30 years helping Illinois homeowners keep their plumbing fixtures and pipes in top shape. Our licensed and certified team provides same-day service and 24/7 emergency support to get your toilet back to normal fast. We arrive in fully stocked service trucks, allowing us to diagnose and repair your toilet issues in a single visit. Contact us today to schedule toilet repair in DuPage, Will, Kendall, or Kane County.