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What to Do When Your Toilet Keeps Running

January 3, 2025

A running toilet isn’t just an annoying noise—it can also lead to higher water bills and unnecessary waste. If your toilet keeps running after you flush, it’s often a sign that something isn’t functioning correctly within the tank. Thankfully, many common causes of a running toilet can be resolved with a little know-how. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you identify and fix the issue.

1. Check the Flapper

The flapper is a rubber valve at the bottom of the tank that controls the release of water into the bowl. Over time, it can become worn out or misaligned, preventing it from sealing properly.


Fix: Turn off the water supply, remove the flapper, and inspect it for damage. If it’s worn or warped, replace it with a new one, which is inexpensive and easy to find at hardware stores.

2. Inspect the Chain

The chain connecting the flapper to the flush handle can sometimes be too long or too short. A chain that's too long may get tangled, while a chain that's too short may prevent the flapper from sealing completely.


Fix:
Adjust the chain length so it has just enough slack to allow the flapper to close fully.

3. Examine the Float

The float regulates the water level in the tank. If it’s set too high, the water may continuously flow into the overflow tube, causing the toilet to run.


Fix:
Adjust the float by bending the rod or turning the adjustment screw, depending on your toilet model, so the water level stops about an inch below the overflow tube.

4. Check the Fill Valve

The fill valve controls the water coming into the tank. If it’s damaged or improperly adjusted, it can cause constant water flow.


Fix:
Inspect the valve for wear and replace it if necessary. Adjust it to ensure it shuts off the water once the tank reaches the correct level.

Take Control of Your Plumbing Issues Today!

If your toilet is still running despite these efforts, it may be time to call in the professionals. At Fry Plumbing & Heating Corporation, we specialize in quick and reliable plumbing repairs. Don’t let a small issue drain your wallet—contact us today for expert service and solutions you can count on!

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