An efficient toilet helps you save on water bills and keep your home comfortable and functional, and you need a functioning toilet in order to live comfortably
Among the most common toilet issues is a constantly running toilet, where the water in the tank keeps running even when you have not pressed the flush button. Discover the possible causes of a toilet that won’t stop running and what you can do.
The Flapper Is Damaged or Defective
When you flush the toilet, the flapper is the component that lifts to allow water to flow from the tank into the bowl. Therefore, if the flapper is defective, this component cannot create a proper seal, and water will constantly leak from the tank.
Numerous issues may cause the flapper to leak.
Outdated Flapper
Perhaps you have had your toilet for many years, and the flapper has reached the end of its lifespan. In this case, you will need to replace it with a new one.
Mold Growth
If there is mold on the flapper, this component may not be able to create a proper seal. Therefore, clean the flapper regularly to maximize its efficiency.
In the same way, bacteria can also accumulate on the flapper and interfere with its ability to create a proper seal. Therefore, you should clean this component regularly as well.
Tight or Loose Chain
The chain connects to the flapper and the flush handle. The chain may become tangled if too loose, preventing the flapper from opening correctly. On the other hand, if the chain is too tight, the flapper cannot close completely, and water will continuously leak.
If you suspect a faulty flapper to be the cause of your toilet running constantly, you can clean the component. If that does not solve the problem, adjust the chain or replace the flapper.
The Fill Tube Is Inserted Incorrectly
The fill tube is a small pipe that runs from the bottom of the fill valve to the overflow tube. This component allows water to flow into the tank when it is time to refill it.
However, if this component is inserted incorrectly, water will continuously leak from the fill valve and your toilet will run constantly.
The solution to this issue is to shorten the fill tube to match the level of the overflow tube. If you are unsure of how to do this, call a professional plumber for assistance.
The Toilet Float Is Too High
A float is a small object floating on the tank’s water. This component regulates the water level in the tank and signals the fill valve to turn off when the desired amount of water has been reached.
However, if the float is set too high, water will constantly leak from the fill valve, and your toilet will run continuously. You can solve this problem by adjusting the float to a lower position. But, again, if you lack the skills and tools for the job, this job is best left to experts.
The Water Pressure Is Too High
If the water pressure in your home is too high, the pressure forces water into the tank faster than the fill valve can shut off — this causes a constant leakage. Besides a constantly running toilet, other signs of high-water pressure in your home include:
- Leaky faucets and pipes
- High energy bills
- Hammering sounds
The best solution is to invest in a pressure valve or regulator to reduce the water pressure in your home.
Whichever the cause of your toilet running constantly is, you should never ignore the problem. Instead, contact us at A-1 Affordable Plumbing Inc for a comprehensive inspection to establish the root of the problem. We will then provide the necessary repairs to deal with the issue and restore your toilet’s optimal performance.
