A running toilet isn’t just an annoyance. It’s a drain on your wallet and the environment. That constant sound of water filling the tank might seem harmless, but over time, it can lead to hundreds of gallons of wasted water and a significant spike in your utility bill. More importantly, it could signal a deeper problem in your plumbing system. If you’ve jiggled the handle more times than you can count, it’s time to get to the root of the issue and solve it for good.

In many homes, especially older ones, the internal components of a toilet wear down with regular use. Even newer toilets can develop issues if parts shift out of place or sediment builds up in the tank. Before you consider replacing the entire unit or calling in a professional, it’s helpful to understand the most common causes behind a running toilet and what you can do to fix them. Whether you’re dealing with a faulty flapper or an unbalanced float, there are effective solutions you can try. And if you’re searching for toilet repair in Stafford, VA, knowing what’s wrong can help you explain the problem clearly to your plumber or even solve it yourself.

1. The Flapper Isn’t Sealing Properly

The flapper is a rubber or silicone valve at the bottom of the tank. When you flush, it lifts to let water flow into the bowl and then drops back down to seal the tank. Over time, flappers can become warped, coated in mineral deposits, or misaligned. If it doesn’t form a watertight seal, water continuously leaks into the bowl, prompting the tank to refill endlessly.

Solution: Turn off the water supply to the toilet and flush to empty the tank. Inspect the flapper. If it looks worn or doesn’t sit evenly, it’s best to replace it. Most flappers are inexpensive and can be installed in minutes without tools.

2. The Chain Is Too Tight or Too Loose

The flapper is connected to the toilet handle via a chain. If this chain is too tight, it may keep the flapper slightly lifted, preventing a proper seal. If it’s too loose, it may not lift the flapper high enough to allow a full flush, leading to continuous refilling.

Solution: Adjust the length of the chain so that it has just enough slack to allow the flapper to close completely, but not so much that it gets tangled under the flapper or impedes its movement.

3. The Float Is Set Incorrectly

The float controls the water level in the tank. If it’s set too high, the tank will overfill, and water will spill into the overflow tube, causing the toilet to run. If it’s set too low, you won’t get a powerful flush.

Solution: Look for the float ball or float cup on the fill valve. For float balls, bend the metal arm gently to lower the float. For float cups, use the adjustment screw or slide mechanism to set it to the proper level—typically about an inch below the overflow tube.

4. The Fill Valve Is Worn Out

The fill valve refills the tank after every flush. A faulty or clogged fill valve can cause constant running or irregular tank refills. This issue is especially common in areas with hard water.

Solution: If adjusting the float doesn’t stop the running, the fill valve may need replacing. Shut off the water, drain the tank, and unscrew the old valve. Install a new one according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Many kits are universal and easy to follow.

5. The Overflow Tube Is Cracked or Damaged

The overflow tube prevents the tank from overflowing by directing excess water into the toilet bowl. If it’s cracked, water may leak and trigger the fill valve to keep running.

Solution: Check the tube for visible damage. If it’s broken or brittle, you may need to replace the entire flush valve assembly, which includes the overflow tube and the flapper seat.

6. Sediment and Mineral Buildup

Over time, sediment from hard water can accumulate in the tank, especially around the fill valve and flapper. This can prevent components from sealing properly or cause inconsistent water levels.

Solution: Clean the inside of the tank with a soft brush and vinegar solution to remove buildup. Regular maintenance helps prolong the life of toilet components and ensures smooth operation.

If your toilet keeps running, don’t ignore it. Small leaks can add up to major costs in both water usage and repair bills. Knowing how your toilet works and understanding the common issues behind a constantly running fixture can save you time, money, and frustration. Most repairs are simple and require only basic tools and replacement parts found at any hardware store. However, if your efforts haven’t stopped the running or if you suspect a larger issue within your plumbing system, it’s time to call a professional.

For reliable, fast, and expert toilet repair in Stafford, VA, trust the skilled technicians at Woodbridge Plumbing. Contact us today to schedule your service and get your toilet and your water bill back to normal.