A constantly running toilet can create quite a disturbance in your household. In addition to being a nuisance, this running water can lead to steep utility costs. To help diagnose this potential plumbing problem, here are three common reasons toilets run without stopping.

Why Does Your Toilet Keep Running?

1. Flapper

If you notice water leaking through the toilet flapper inside the tank, the flapper is worn down, or the rubber plug in the tank has lost its seal.

When either of these happens, the toilet flapper can neither close correctly nor adequately seal the tank. Check the part for discoloration, mineral deposits, and warping to determine if you need a replacement. Unless you originally had an adjustable flapper, a universal replacement should work.

2. Toilet Chain

Your toilet chain lifts and lowers the flapper at the bottom of the toilet tank. However, if the chain breaks, becomes unhooked, or is an improper length, your toilet may continue to run.

If you notice the small hook at the bottom of the chain is undone, it won’t form a seal until you hook it properly. You may also notice that the chain is too long and has become stuck under the edge of the flapper, preventing it from closing.

Alternatively, if the chain is too short, there may be kinks in it, or it may be wrapped around something in the tank, preventing the bottom flapper from laying flat. If you’re unable to correct problems with the chain, you might need a new one.

3. Water Level

Another potential culprit for running water is a water shortage or surplus. If you notice the water doesn’t meet the line inside your tank, you have a shortage.

If, on the other hand, water fills into the overflow tube, the water level is too high. To correct this issue, open the tank and check the float ball inside. You can lower the water level by reducing the float ball height, signaling the fill valve to turn off when the tank is full.

If your toilet is running uncontrollably and you can’t figure out why, trust the plumbing professionals at Bernie Buchner, Inc., in Lacrosse, WI. For over 60 years, they’ve provided everything from plumbing services to commercial HVAC repair at affordable rates with no hidden fees. With knowledgeable technicians and 24-hour emergency service, they will fix your most pressing plumbing needs. To schedule service or inquire about their pricing, call (608) 784-9000 or visit them online. Text “JOIN” to (608) 480-8709 to receive text message updates.