What to Do When Your Toilet Won’t Stop Running

A running toilet might seem like a minor nuisance, but it can waste hundreds of gallons of water a day and significantly increase your water bill. Fortunately, the issue is usually simple to diagnose and fix.

At Priority Plumbing and Restoration, we know how frustrating plumbing problems can be — so here’s a quick guide to help you take action when your toilet won’t stop running.

Step 1: Remove the Tank Lid and Inspect the Components

Start by carefully removing the lid from your toilet tank. Inside, you’ll see a few basic parts:

• Flapper
• Flush Valve
• Fill Valve
• Float

These components work together to control the water level and flushing process. When your toilet won’t stop running, one or more of these parts is likely malfunctioning.

Step 2: Check the Flapper

The flapper is a rubber valve at the bottom of the tank that lifts when you flush and then reseals the opening to let the tank refill. If it’s worn out, misaligned, or not sealing properly, water will continuously leak into the bowl.

• How to Fix: Gently press down on the flapper to see if the running stops. If it does, you may just need to adjust the chain or replace the flapper. Replacement flappers are inexpensive and available at any hardware store.

Step 3: Examine the Float and Fill Valve

The float rises with the water level and tells the fill valve when to shut off. If it’s set too high or is damaged, the tank will overfill, causing the fill valve to keep running.

How to Fix: Try adjusting the float by turning the adjustment screw (if it’s a float cup) or bending the rod slightly (if it’s a ball float). If this doesn’t work, the fill valve itself may need to be cleaned or replaced.

Step 4: Look for Water Flowing into the Overflow Tube

If water is steadily trickling into the overflow tube, the water level is likely set too high.

How to Fix: Lower the float so the water stops about an inch below the top of the overflow tube. This simple adjustment often stops continuous running.

Step 5: Call the Professionals

If you’ve tried these fixes and your toilet is still running, it may be time to bring in the experts. Hidden leaks, worn-out valves, or sediment buildup can sometimes require professional tools and experience to resolve.

At Priority Plumbing and Restoration, our licensed plumbers are available for fast, affordable toilet repairs—24/7. We’ll diagnose the plumbing problem, make the fix, and ensure your plumbing is working efficiently again.

Don’t Let a Running Toilet Drain Your Wallet

A running toilet may seem like a small issue, but left unchecked, it can lead to wasted water, higher bills, and even long-term plumbing damage. With a little DIY troubleshooting — and help from Priority Plumbing and Restoration when needed — you can keep your home running smoothly.

Need assistance? Contact us today or schedule a service online. We’re always ready to help!