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A toilet that won’t stop running isn’t just annoying—it’s one of the most common household plumbing problems we see across Atlanta. A running toilet can waste hundreds of gallons of water every day, drive up your water bill, and put unnecessary strain on your plumbing system. If you’ve noticed your toilet running long after you flush, here’s what might be happening and how to fix it.
Common Reasons Toilets Run Constantly
Inside your toilet tank, several components work together to control flushing and water refilling. If even one part fails, the entire system can malfunction. Here are the most common culprits:
- Worn Flapper Valve: The flapper is the rubber seal at the bottom of the tank. Over time, it can warp, crack, or become coated with mineral buildup, allowing water to leak continuously into the bowl.
- Faulty Fill Valve: The fill valve controls how much water flows into the tank. If it doesn’t shut off properly, your tank will keep refilling indefinitely.
- Chain Problems: If the chain connecting the handle to the flapper is too short or too long, it can prevent the flapper from sealing correctly after a flush.
- Float Issues: A float that’s set too high allows the tank to overfill, sending water into the overflow tube nonstop.
- Sediment Buildup: Minerals in Atlanta’s water can clog valves, affecting how well they seal and shut off.
Why Fixing a Running Toilet Matters
Many homeowners ignore a running toilet because it doesn’t seem urgent. However, according to the EPA WaterSense program, even a small toilet leak can waste more than 200 gallons of water a day. That means higher utility bills, wasted resources, and potential stress on your home’s sewer and drain system.
DIY Checks You Can Try
Before calling a plumber, you can try a few simple checks:
- Inspect the flapper for cracks or warping—if it looks worn, replace it.
- Check the chain length. It should allow the flapper to seal completely without being too tight.
- Adjust the float. If it’s set too high, lower it to stop water from flowing into the overflow tube.
If these steps don’t stop the toilet from running, or if the problem keeps coming back, it’s a sign of a deeper issue that requires professional help.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
If your toilet continues running after simple adjustments, it’s time to bring in an expert. At Fix & Flow Plumbing Co., our licensed plumbers specialize in toilet repair in Atlanta. We’ll inspect the flapper, fill valve, overflow tube, and other components to pinpoint the problem. In some cases, replacing outdated parts is enough; in others, upgrading to a new, water-efficient toilet may be the smarter long-term investment.
How a Running Toilet Affects the Rest of Your Plumbing
Did you know that a running toilet can sometimes point to bigger plumbing problems? If your toilet is one of several fixtures draining slowly or behaving unusually, it may be linked to your home’s main sewer line. Issues like tree root intrusion in Atlanta sewer lines or buildup in older pipes can cause backups that affect toilets first. That’s why it’s always best to get a professional inspection rather than ignore the issue.
Schedule Your Toilet Repair Today
A constantly running toilet isn’t just a nuisance—it’s a drain on your wallet. Don’t let it keep wasting water and money. Call Fix & Flow Plumbing Co. at 404-800-3569 or schedule service online. We’ll quickly diagnose the issue, make the necessary repairs, and help you save water and money while protecting your home’s plumbing system.
Looking for more helpful resources? Check out our other posts on why your water bill may be higher than usual or why hot water runs out too quickly. These issues often tie back to hidden leaks and inefficiencies in your plumbing system.
Frequently Asked Questions About Running Toilets
Why does my toilet keep running after I flush?
Most of the time, a toilet runs after flushing because the flapper isn’t sealing properly, the float is misadjusted, or the fill valve is worn out. These parts regulate how much water flows in and out of your toilet tank. If they’re not working correctly, water continues to flow into the bowl. A quick inspection can usually identify the problem.
Can a running toilet increase my water bill?
Yes. A toilet that runs constantly can waste up to 200 gallons of water per day, which adds up quickly on your monthly water bill. According to the EPA WaterSense program, fixing common household leaks can save homeowners about 10% on their water bills each year.
How do I stop my toilet from running constantly?
First, check the flapper to see if it’s worn or misaligned. Then, look at the float to ensure it’s set at the proper water level. If these adjustments don’t solve the problem, the fill valve may need replacing. If you’re not comfortable tackling these repairs, call Fix & Flow Plumbing Co. at 404-800-3569 for professional repair in Atlanta.
Is it better to repair or replace a running toilet?
It depends on the age and condition of the toilet. If your toilet is newer and in good condition, replacing small parts like the flapper or fill valve usually solves the problem. If your toilet is over 20 years old and constantly needs repairs, it may be more cost-effective to upgrade to a newer, more efficient model. Learn more about toilet installation in Atlanta.
How soon should I fix a running toilet?
Immediately. The longer you wait, the more water and money you’ll waste. Running toilets are usually simple to repair, but delaying service can result in higher utility bills and even hidden leaks. Fixing the problem right away saves you time, money, and stress.
Can a running toilet cause damage to my home?
In most cases, a running toilet won’t cause direct water damage since the water flows into the bowl and down the drain. However, the wasted water and higher bills are reason enough to fix it quickly. If you notice water pooling around the base of your toilet, that may be a separate issue requiring urgent repair. Our Atlanta plumbing repair services can help.