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Toilets are the most used fixtures in many homes. This regular use makes them vulnerable to malfunctioning at any time. One common problem you may face is a running toilet. While a constantly running toilet may seem just like a minor inconvenience, it can result in other issues, including water wastage or even damage in your home due to flooding.
A toilet can run for various reasons, and it’s essential to identify the cause whenever it occurs. It is your responsibility to troubleshoot the problem and find a solution. If your home’s toilet frequently runs and you are unsure why, here are some common culprits that could be causing the issue.
1. Faulty Flapper Seal
The flapper seal is a rubber or silicone valve that covers the opening between the toilet tank and bowl. When you flush the toilet, the flapper rises to release water into the bowl and then closes the opening to enable the tank to refill. Over time, flapper seals can become hardened, bent, or obstructed by sediment, resulting in a compromised seal.
This can lead to water leaking from the toilet tank into the bowl, causing the fill valve to run continuously to maintain water levels. A simple inspection can identify cracks or deformities in the flapper or issues with proper sealing. If you see an issue, having a plumber replace the flapper should fix your running toilet problem.
2. Short Flapper Chain
If your toilet continually runs after flushing, one common culprit could be the length of the flapper chain. The flapper chain connects the flush lever to the flapper itself. If this chain is too short, it might pull the flapper up too high or not allow it to close after flushing fully. This prevents a complete seal, leading to a continuous flow of water from the tank into the bowl.
Fixing this issue requires adjusting the chain length so that there’s a slight slack when the flapper is in the closed position. This can usually be done by detaching and then reattaching the chain at a different link. Proper adjustment ensures that the flapper can fully close after the flush, stopping unnecessary water flow and resolving the issue of the toilet running continuously.
3. Leaky Fill Valve
Once the toilet is flushed, the fill valve refills the tank until the water reaches a predetermined level and then stops. However, if there is a leak, the fill valve may fail to shut off, causing water to flow continuously into the tank.
This can lead to overflow into the bowl through the overflow tube. Indications of a faulty fill valve include water seeping into the overflow tube when the toilet is not in use and a fill valve that keeps running without stopping. The only solution to this issue is to replace or adjust the fill valve.
4. Broken Flush Valve
The flush valve assembly consists of three main components: the flapper, the seat (where the flapper is positioned), and the overflow tube. When any of these parts becomes cracked, develops broken lines, or sustains damage of any kind, it can result in a toilet running continuously.
This occurs because there is a lack of control over the water flow, preventing the tank from filling correctly and constantly causing water to flow into the bowl. To resolve this issue, it is essential to inspect the flush valve assembly for any signs of cracks or damage and contact On Time Experts to arrange for a replacement.
5. Faulty Float Switch
The float switch controls the water level inside a tank. It rises with the water and triggers the fill valve to shut off when the tank is full. If the float is damaged, stuck, or not adjusted correctly, it might not shut off the fill valve, causing it to run nonstop. Ensuring the float is moving freely and properly adjusted will regulate the float level to ensure the tank doesn’t overfill and the toilet doesn’t run constantly.
6. Long Refill Tube
If your toilet runs continuously, the issue might be with the length or positioning of the refill tube, which is meant to replenish water in the bowl after flushing. If this tube is too long or not correctly placed in the overflow tube, it can lead to inefficient filling and constant running as water fails to be directed appropriately. The refill tube should ideally end just above the opening of the overflow tube, ensuring that water flows directly into it without excess spillage.
Trimming the tube to the correct length and securing it properly can often resolve the issue. However, adjusting plumbing components can be tricky, and there’s a risk of causing further issues if not done correctly. For peace of mind and to ensure your toilet operates efficiently, consider reaching out to a professional plumber at On Time Experts.
7. Broken Toilet Handle
The toilet handle initiates flushing by lifting the flapper and allowing water to flow from the tank into the bowl. If the toilet handle is broken or sticks, the flapper can remain open or fail to seal after the flush, leading to continuous running. Repairing or replacing a broken toilet handle ensures the flushing mechanism works properly and the flapper seals appropriately to avoid this problem.
8. Incorrect Water Level
Incorrect water levels in the tank could be another reason your toilet keeps running constantly. If the water level is too high, it may result in water continuously flowing through the overflow tube into the bowl, potentially submerging the trap of the fill valve. On the other hand, if the water level is too low, the toilet may not flush properly as there may not be enough water to clear the bowl adequately. To address this issue, it’s important to check the water level in the tank and ensure it aligns with the recommended level specified by the manufacturer.
9. Toilet Blockage
Toilet blockages can disrupt the natural flow of water and waste, which relies on gravity for the flushing mechanism to work effectively. A blockage impedes this flow, causing water to run as the system attempts to clear the obstruction continuously. This results in a perpetually running toilet and contributes to increased water bills. Addressing a blockage promptly is crucial for maintaining your toilet’s efficiency and avoiding unnecessary expenses.
Get Expert Plumbing Help
If you have a running toilet and simple fixes haven’t improved the issue, it’s time to seek professional help from a plumber. At On Time Experts, we provide a full range of plumbing services to residents of Garland, Dallas, and the surrounding area. We can find the cause of your toilet problem and provide professional repair or replacement. Our team of experts also provides heating, cooling, and indoor air quality services to fit your needs. Customer satisfaction is our top priority. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or learn more about our plumbing services.
