How to Fix a Running Toilet and Save on Your Water Bill
Table of Contents
The Cost of a Running Toilet
That subtle hissing sound coming from your bathroom isn't just annoying—it's draining your wallet. A constantly running toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water per day.
Check the Flapper
The most common cause of a running toilet is a worn-out flapper. This rubber seal at the bottom of the tank stops water from flowing into the bowl. If it's warped, dirty, or degraded from chlorine tablets, water will constantly leak through. Replacing a flapper is a relatively simple and inexpensive DIY fix that takes only a few minutes. Turn off the water supply, flush to drain the tank, and swap out the old flapper for a new one from your local hardware store.
Adjust the Float
If the water level in the tank is too high, it will continuously spill into the overflow tube. Adjusting the float arm or dial can lower the water level and stop the running. If you have an older ball float, simply bend the metal arm slightly downwards. For modern fill valves, turn the adjustment screw counterclockwise to lower the float. If the fill valve continues to let water in even after adjustment, the valve itself may need to be replaced.
When to Call a Plumber
If replacing the flapper and adjusting the float doesn't solve the issue, or if you notice water pooling around the base of the toilet, it's time to call a professional to prevent water damage to your floors. A constantly running toilet might also indicate a more complex issue with the flush valve seat or water pressure problems in your home's plumbing system. Don't let a small leak turn into a massive water bill or costly floor repairs.
Written by Reliance Plumbing Solutions
The local experts at Reliance Plumbing Solutions have been serving the Treasure Coast for over 20 years. We share our knowledge to help homeowners protect their property and save money.
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