A toilet that won’t stop running is one of the most common plumbing issues homeowners face. Since constantly flowing water is incredibly wasteful—and poses the risk of flooding—it’s important to address this as soon as possible. Thankfully, the most common causes of continuous running are fairly easy to fix. 

3 Reasons Your Toilet Won’t Stop Running 

1. The Chain Is Disconnected 

Every time you push the handle to flush the toilet, it tightens the chain. This, in turn, lifts the flapper, thereby allowing water to flow through the flush valve. Should the chain become disconnected, the flapper may not close properly, and water will continue flowing into the bowl. To check the chain, take the lid off the tank and inspect the inside of the handle. If there’s nothing attached to it—or the flapper down below—dig out the chain from the bottom of the tank and hook it up properly. 

2. The Fill Tube Needs Repositioning 

After flushing, water is directed through the fill tube to refill the bowl. If there is no longer a secure connection between the valve and tube, water will continue flowing through the overflow tube. Should this be the issue, adjusting the fill tube and repositioning the overflow tube will stop the water from running when it shouldn’t. To avoid wasting water until a plumber can come out and make these adjustments, turn off the main water valve, which is located behind the toilet. 

3. The Tank Is Leaking

If water is leaking from the tank, the bowl will never reach capacity, and the toilet will keep running. To determine if there’s a leak in the tank, put a few drops of food coloring in the tank, and leave it for at least 12 hours without flushing. If there’s food coloring in the bowl when you check it, your toilet has a leak somewhere, and you’ll need to call a plumber to locate and fix it. Common culprits include a dysfunctional seal around the flapper, a damaged overflow tube, and a problematic fill valve.

If your toilet won’t stop running and you can’t determine the cause of the problem, turn to Buck’s Plumbing & Sewer Service for prompt repairs. Based in Cookeville, TN, and serving homeowners across Putnam County since 1960, they’re the oldest plumbing contractor in the area. Their team consists of highly trained professionals equipped to install water lines, clean septic tanks, and replace water heaters. To learn more about their services, visit their website. To talk to a plumbing expert, call (931) 528-1157.