How to fix a running toilet
Does your toilet cistern sound like it’s constantly running and not shutting off as it should? The sound of a flushing toilet can get quite loud, imagine a constant flush cycle echoing over your home's internal plumbing, never stopping. Despite being annoying, this type of problem can actually be quite wasteful and costly due to the possibility of large amounts of wasted water.
Don’t fret, here are some quick hints and tips in order to help fix your toilet or diagnose the problem before you call your plumber:
My toilet won’t stop running
It can be very annoying, especially when it just doesn't stop. Does your toilet exhibit any of the following symptoms:
- Your toilet makes a constant noise even when it's not in use.
- Your toilet sounds like it is intermittently being filled with water even if it is not being used. This could go on and off all day and night.
- Your toilet won’t flush properly unless you hold down the handle for longer than it used to.
- There is water leaking around the overflow.
- Your toilet runs for a longer time than usual after you have pressed the flush button or handle.
How to work out why your toilet is leaking?
Generally, a running toilet that never seems to stop could be caused by the following common issues:
- The flapper valve has worn out - may cause a toilet to run intermittently.
- The float device may be too high causing water to reach the overflow tube.
- The flush button could be stuck in position causing the flush lever to be constantly depressed.
- A slow leak - inspect around the toilet for evidence of leaking water
- If all fails, turn off the water supply, if all the water drains out of your cistern this generally indicates a broken seal or inlet/outlet valve.
How to stop a toilet from running?
If you are struggling with getting your toilet to stop constantly running it's time to call your plumber. Before you call a plumber you can turn the water supply to your toilet completely off in order to not waste any more water, this is also a great option if you have multiple toilets in your home.
Your local toilet plumbing specialists
For all your toilet plumbing needs including blocked toilets, running or leaking toilets or flush issues contact our experienced plumbing team on 0488 801 008 or complete our online service request today.
