Why Is My Toilet Running & How Can I Fix It?

Toilets can begin to run continuously as time passes by, which increases water usage bills and can become frustrating. But the good news is that fixing it might be easier than you think! By taking a few minutes to inspect the fill valve, you can often find the problem and save yourself some hassle.

In this blog, we’ll share easy tips to help you troubleshoot the issue. However, if you’re not confident about fixing it yourself, don’t worry, a local plumber in Maricopa is just a call away!

Sometimes the overflow tube may be too short, especially if the current flush valve assembly is not compatible with the toilet. In this case, it can cause the water to run continuously, and you’ll need to replace the flush valve. If the overflow tube is the correct height for the toilet, the water level or the fill valve may be the issue.

The water level should be set about an inch below the top of the overflow tube. If the level is higher, we recommend you lower it by adjusting the float rod, cup, or ball. Float rods or float balls extend out from the side of the fill valve, and float cups are cylinders attached to the fill valve. They slide up and down according to the water level.

Adjust the water level, and position the screw attaching the float to the fill valve. Turn it about a quarter-turn and ensure the float aligns with the desired water level. If the float is sitting too low because water is trapped inside, the fill valve may remain partially open. In this case, replacing the float will quickly solve the problem and restore proper function.

If water runs until it flows into the overflow tube, regardless of the float level, the issue is probably caused by a faulty fill valve. But, if water runs continuously without flowing into the overflow tube, the problem might be the flush valve.

The flush valve chain lifts the flapper when the flush button is used. In case it is too short, it won’t close properly and will cause a constant flow of water through your toilet. If too long, the chain can be trapped under the flapper and prevent it from closing.

Check your flush valve chain to make sure its length is the correct one! You can shorten them, but, in case it’s too short, you will need to replace it.

Flappers are generally made of rubber and can be worn or covered in grime as time passes. Inspect it, and, in case it is worn, replace it with a new one. If dirty, you can mix warm water and vinegar to clean it before putting it back into place.

After checking the previous parts, you may find that the flush valve assembly is causing trouble. You can buy a compatible flush valve assembly and replace it by yourself. First, turn the water off and flush the toilet to drain the water on the water inlet line with a cloth or towel. Then, disconnect the water supply from the tank. Detach the toilet tank and remove the old flush valve assembly. Remove the tank-to-bowl bolts to access the toilet-to-bowl gasket. Install the new flush valve in its place, tighten it, and replace the tank-to-bowl gasket before putting the tank back into position. Turn the water back on and allow the tank to fill up. While this happens, check for any leaks at the base of the tank.

Replacing the fill valve is easier than dealing with a faulty flush valve. As we have indicated in previous steps, turn the water off to the toilet and flush it to empty the tank. With a cloth or towel, dry any water and remove the water supply line. Unscrew the locking nut of the bottom of the tank to lose the fill valve assembly and remove the old fill valve assembly. Install the fill valve and float to ensure it is sitting at the correct level of the toilet. Reattach the water supply line turn the water back on and make sure you check the bottom of the tank for any leaks. If you’ve done it properly, the water shouldn’t flow into the tank once the float reaches the set level.

If you find these steps too complex, we recommend you call our professional plumbing services to fix the issue. Even if you may have experience in DIY tasks at home, you may not fully understand how toilets work. At AZ Quality Plumbing we offer an effective and quick service so you don’t need to worry about potential problems like cutting the overflow tube too short or a leaking toilet tank. Don’t hesitate to contact us today!