Why Does My Toilet Keep Running? (And Is It Costing You Money?)

A running toilet might seem like a small annoyance, but it can quietly waste hundreds of gallons of water every week. In many cases, homeowners don't realize there's a problem until they receive a higher-than-expected water bill.

The good news? Some causes are simple to identify. Others may require the help of a professional plumber. Here's what you should know.

A Worn-Out Flapper

The rubber flapper at the bottom of your toilet tank creates a watertight seal after every flush. Over time, it can become brittle, warped, or coated with mineral deposits, allowing water to leak continuously into the bowl.

If your toilet seems to refill every few minutes, the flapper is often the first place to check.

The Fill Valve Isn't Working Properly

The fill valve controls how much water enters the tank after each flush. As it ages, it can stick open or fail to shut off completely, causing water to run continuously.

Arizona's hard water can accelerate wear on fill valves by leaving behind mineral buildup that affects their performance.

The Chain Is Too Short or Too Long

A chain that is too tight can prevent the flapper from sealing completely. If it's too loose, it can become tangled underneath the flapper.

Fortunately, this is one of the easiest issues to inspect and adjust yourself.

The Float Needs Adjustment

The float determines when the fill valve shuts off. If it's set too high, water will continue flowing into the overflow tube instead of stopping where it should.

A quick adjustment may solve the problem, but if the float mechanism is damaged, replacement is often the better option.

Mineral Buildup From Arizona Hard Water

Hard water affects more than faucets and showerheads.

Mineral deposits can build up inside your toilet's moving parts, preventing valves from sealing properly and causing the toilet to run longer than it should.

Routine maintenance helps extend the life of your plumbing fixtures and reduces unnecessary water waste.

How Much Water Can a Running Toilet Waste?

Even a slow-running toilet can waste a surprising amount of water.

Depending on the severity of the leak, a running toilet may waste hundreds of gallons each day, increasing your monthly utility bill without you ever noticing.

If you've recently noticed an unexplained increase in your water bill, a running toilet could be one of the reasons.

Can You Fix It Yourself?

Many homeowners can safely check:

• The flapper
• The chain
• The float adjustment

If replacing these inexpensive parts doesn't solve the issue, the problem may involve the fill valve, hidden leaks, or another plumbing component that should be inspected by a professional.

When It's Time to Call a Plumber

If your toilet continues running after replacing basic components, or you notice water around the base of the toilet, frequent refilling, or unexplained increases in your water bill, it's time to schedule an inspection.

Ignoring a constantly running toilet can lead to higher water bills and unnecessary wear on your plumbing system.

Let Plumbrite Help

Whether your toilet needs a simple repair or a more thorough diagnosis, the experienced plumbers at Plumbrite can quickly identify the cause and recommend the right solution.

We'll help stop the running water, reduce waste, and get your plumbing working the way it should.

If your toilet won't stop running, contact Plumbrite today to schedule professional plumbing service in Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Fountain Hills, Cave Creek, and Rio Verde. We'll identify the problem quickly and help you avoid wasting water—and money.