Why Is My Toilet Running? (And How to Fix It)

The toilet flapper is a rubber seal at the bottom of the tank that controls water flow into the bowl. If it doesn’t seal properly, water will keep running.

How to Inspect and Replace the Flapper:

1. Turn off the water supply – Locate the shut-off valve behind the toilet and turn it clockwise.
2. Open the tank lid and look at the flapper at the bottom.
3. Test the seal – Press down on the flapper. If the toilet stops running, it’s likely the cause.
4. Look for wear and tear – If the flapper looks worn, cracked, or warped, replace it.
5. Replace the flapper – Buy a new flapper at any hardware store and follow installation instructions.

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The chain connects the flush handle to the flapper. If it’s too tight or tangled, the flapper won’t seal properly.

How to Fix the Chain:

1. Open the tank and locate the chain.
2. Check for tangles or excessive slack.
3. Adjust the length – The chain should have a little slack but not too much.
4. Test the flush – Adjust as needed until the flapper closes properly.

The float controls the water level in the tank. If it’s set too high, the water will continuously run into the overflow tube.

How to Adjust the Float:

• If you have a ball float (a round ball attached to an arm): Bend the arm slightly downward.
• If you have a cup-style float (a sliding cup on a vertical rod): Slide the float down to lower the water level.
• Test the flush and adjust as needed.

A faulty fill valve may not shut off properly, allowing water to keep flowing.

How to Test the Fill Valve:

1. Flush the toilet and watch the water fill up.
2. If water continuously runs into the overflow tube, the fill valve needs adjusting or replacing.
3. Turn the adjustment screw (if applicable) to lower the water level.
4. If the problem persists, consider replacing the fill valve.

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Sometimes, a running toilet is caused by small leaks that are hard to detect.

How to Check for Toilet Leaks:

• Food coloring test – Add a few drops of food coloring to the tank. If the color appears in the bowl without flushing, there’s a leak.
• Check around the base – If you see water pooling around the base, there may be a wax ring leak.
• Inspect the supply line – Ensure the water supply hose isn’t leaking.

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