When you’re alone in your home, it can be a little disconcerting to hear your toilet start to run. In addition to making you wonder for a second if someone is in your home, you’re concerned about wasted water since toilets that run too frequently can increase utility bills. Here’s why toilets sometimes run—and how your plumbing contractor can resolve the issue. 

Understanding What Makes Toilets Run

Why Does It Happen?

After a toilet is flushed, the system works to refill the top tank to prepare for a future flush. Unfortunately, some systems can develop issues that cause this fill and flush cycle to repeat spontaneously or continuously. 

Toilets can continue to run if the internal components start to become worn. For instance, overflow valves, flapper seals, and fill valves can all start to wear out, making the toilet fill more frequently than it should. Additionally, issues with high water pressure can spark the fill sequence. You can examine the valves and seals yourself in your detective work, but the latter will require the help of a plumbing expert.

How Can I Prevent Issues? 

When you experience recurring problems with your toilet filling too frequently, turn to a plumbing contractor to avoid the process of elimination at the hardware store. Talk with them about how frequently the issue occurs, and ask them to check your main line water pressure. If the problem is luckily not that serious, ask your plumber to replace the internal toilet components that are at fault. 

Although a toilet that runs frequently might not seem like a big deal, reporting the problem to a plumbing contractor can stop water from being wasted and possibly circumvent a more serious issue. At All American Plumbing in Concord, NC, their experienced plumbers can help with everything from emergency plumbing issues to fixture upgrades, helping your home stay functional and sanitary. Explore more about what makes them great by visiting their website or by calling (704) 788-8690.