A running toilet isn’t just annoying, it’s wasteful and costly. That constant sound of water trickling may seem minor, but a running toilet can waste hundreds of gallons of water per day and lead to higher utility bills. The good news? Most causes are easy to diagnose and fix.
At EVERYDAYPLUMBER.com, our Tampa plumbers have helped countless homeowners stop toilet leaks and restore peace to their bathrooms. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most common reasons toilets run continuously, and how to fix them fast.
Why Your Toilet Keeps Running
Inside the tank of your toilet is a small system that controls the flushing process. When any part of this system wears out or is out of alignment, your toilet may continue to run.
Common culprits include:
- A worn flapper that doesn’t seal properly
- A stuck or tangled chain
- A float that’s set too high
- A leaky fill valve or cracked overflow tube
Let’s go over how to identify and correct each one.
Quick Fix #1: Replace the Flapper
The flapper is the rubber valve at the bottom of the tank. When it’s worn or warped, water will continue to leak into the bowl.
How to fix it:
- Turn off the water at the shutoff valve near the wall.
- Flush the toilet to empty the tank.
- Remove the old flapper and bring it to the hardware store to find an exact match.
- Clip the new one in place and turn the water back on.
Cost: Around $5–$10
Fix time: 5–10 minutes
Quick Fix #2: Check the Chain
If the chain that connects the flush handle to the flapper is too short, it can hold the flapper open. If it’s too long, it can get stuck under the flapper.
Solution:
Adjust the length so the chain has just a little slack, about half an inch when the flapper is closed.
Quick Fix #3: Adjust the Float
The float controls the water level in the tank. If the water rises too high, it spills into the overflow tube and causes the toilet to run endlessly.
To fix it:
- If you have a ball float, bend the metal rod down slightly.
- If you have a cup-style float, slide the clip down the fill valve to lower the float.
The water level should sit about 1 inch below the top of the overflow tube.
Quick Fix #4: Replace the Fill Valve
If the fill valve is leaking or malfunctioning, your tank may overfill or never shut off properly.
Steps:
- Turn off the water and drain the tank.
- Remove the old fill valve.
- Install a new one (kits come with instructions).
- Turn the water back on and test.
If you’re not confident in making this repair yourself, it’s a good time to call a pro.
How Much Water Is Your Running Toilet Wasting?
A running toilet can waste anywhere from 200 to 800+ gallons of water per day, depending on the severity of the leak. That’s like flushing your money straight down the drain as it can cost you $50–$100+ per month on your water bill.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
Call a licensed plumber if:
- You’ve tried replacing the flapper or float and the problem persists
- You see water pooling around the base of the toilet
- You suspect the flush valve or tank components are cracked
- You’re not comfortable working inside the tank
At EVERYDAYPLUMBER.com, we offer fast, reliable toilet repair across the Tampa Bay Area with honest, affordable pricing and guaranteed results.
FAQ: Running Toilets
Q: How do I know if my toilet is leaking?
A: Try the food coloring test: add a few drops of dye to the tank and wait 10–15 minutes. If the color appears in the bowl without flushing, you have a leak.
Q: How long should a toilet flapper last?
A: On average, flappers last 3–5 years. If you use drop-in cleaners or have hard water, they may wear out sooner.
Q: Is a running toilet dangerous?
A: It’s not an emergency, but it does waste water and money. If left unchecked, it can lead to mold or damage from leaks.
Q: Can a running toilet affect my water pressure?
A: It might, especially if it’s wasting a large amount of water. It can also affect water pressure in other fixtures.
Need Help with a Running Toilet in Tampa Bay?
Don’t let a minor toilet issue waste your water or your time. Our expert plumbers are available for same-day service across the Tampa Bay area.
Whether it’s a flapper, fill valve, or full toilet replacement. We’ve got you covered.
📞 Call 813-872-0200 or request an appointment on our website today.
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