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Why does my toilet keep running?

Serving Glendale, Phoenix, Scottsdale, Peoria, Mesa, Tempe, Chandler, and more of AZ with professional plumbing services since 2001

If you’re tired of your toilet running constantly or you feel like your water bill keeps increasing because of it, then this blog post is for you! We’ll be discussing why toilets keep running, as well as what steps you can take to fix them. You don’t need to call a plumber just yet – let’s dive in and solve it together!

The most common reason your toilet won’t stop running is possibly a faulty flapper

 If your toilet won’t stop running, the most likely reason is a faulty flapper. The flapper is the part of the toilet that controls the flow of water from the tank to the bowl. When it’s working properly, it opens to allow water to flow when you flush the toilet and then closes again to prevent water from leaking out of the tank.

However, over time, the flapper can become worn or damaged, which can cause it to stay open too long or not close properly. This can waste a lot of water and increase your water bill. In some cases, it can even damage your toilet.

If you think your flapper may be causing your toilet to keep running, there are a few things you can do to check it. First, try flushing the toilet a few times in a row. If the flapper is stuck open, you should see water continuously running into the bowl after each flush.

Another way to tell if your flapper needs to be replaced is by putting a few drops of food coloring into the tank. If the color appears in the bowl within a few minutes, that means your flapper isn’t sealing properly and needs to be replaced.

If you’re not sure how to replace a toilet flapper yourself, don’t worry – it’s an easy fix that any plumber can take care of quickly and easily. In most cases, all you need is a new flapper and some basic tools.

Another common reason toilets run is because of a problem with the fill valve

 After you check the toilet flapper, if your toilet keeps running, the next item to check is the fill valve. The fill valve is responsible for filling the tank with water after it has been flushed, so if it’s not working properly, the tank won’t be able to fill up and the toilet will keep running.

There are a few different things that can cause a fill valve to malfunction, but the most common reason is simply that it is dirty or clogged. Over time, sediment and calcium can build up in the valve and prevent it from opening and closing properly. In some cases, you may be able to clean the fill valve and get it working again. However, if the sediment or calcium build-up is severe, you may need to replace the fill valve entirely.

Other causes of a running toilet 

Other causes of a running toilet include a leak in the flush valve or tank to bowl hardware. 

A faulty flush valve is another cause of a running toilet. The flush valve is responsible for sending water from the tank to the bowl. The flush valve is located at the bottom of the tank and is responsible for releasing water when you flush the toilet. If the flush valve is leaking, water will seep out of the tank and onto the floor. If the tank to bowl hardware is rusted or has a compromised gasket, this will allow water to leak out of the toilet onto the floor, causing the toilet tank to refill constantly. 

When to call a professional

There are a few signs that indicate it may be time to call in a professional to help with your toilet issue. For example, if the problem persists after you have tried to make repairs and other simple solutions, it may be time to call a plumber. Additionally, if you hear strange noises coming from your toilet or notice water pooling around the base of your toilet, it is best to call a professional as these could be signs of a more serious issue.
Why Does My Toilet Keep Running?
Why Does My Toilet Keep Running?
Why Does My Toilet Keep Running?

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How can I tell if the flapper is the cause of my toilet running?

A: A quick way to check if the flapper is at fault is to add a few drops of food coloring to the toilet tank. If the color seeps into the bowl without flushing, it’s a sign that the flapper isn’t sealing properly. Also, if you notice water continuously running into the bowl after flushing, it’s likely that the flapper is stuck open or damaged.

Q: What should I do if cleaning the fill valve doesn’t stop my toilet from running?

A: If cleaning the fill valve doesn’t resolve the issue, it might be time to replace it. Sediment and calcium buildup can sometimes damage the valve beyond repair. Replacing a fill valve is a relatively straightforward task that you can do yourself with some basic tools, or you can call a plumber for assistance.

Q: Are there any other parts of the toilet I should check if it keeps running?

A: Yes, besides the flapper and fill valve, you should also check the flush valve and the tank-to-bowl hardware. A leak in the flush valve or a problem with the tank-to-bowl hardware, like a rusted bolt or a compromised gasket, can also cause your toilet to run continuously.

Q: How do I know when it’s time to call a professional plumber?

A: If you’ve tried fixing the common issues and your toilet is still running, it’s a good idea to call a professional. Also, if you hear unusual noises from your toilet or see water pooling around its base, these could be signs of a more serious problem that requires professional attention.

Q: Can a constantly running toilet significantly increase my water bill?

A: Absolutely. A running toilet can waste a surprising amount of water, leading to a noticeable increase in your water bill. Fixing the issue promptly not only saves water but also helps you avoid unnecessary expenses.

Remember, while many toilet issues can be resolved with DIY fixes, don’t hesitate to call Instant Plumbing and Rooter if you’re unsure or if the problem persists. We’re here to help ensure your plumbing is functioning smoothly!

About Us

Instant Plumbing and Rooter LLC is a family-owned and operated plumbing business in Phoenix, AZ. We’re a family of reliable professionals that use the latest techniques for dependable plumbing services. Since 2001, we have been taking care of our community’s plumbing needs promptly and professionally.

Through our work, we aim to change the perception of plumbers in our community. Our goal is to make homeowners like you more informed, as well as show others that being a plumber is not just about unclogging toilets.

A plumber brings hygiene, sanitation, and comfort to everyone, and that’s what we’re here to help you with.

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