A toilet that won’t stop running is one of the most common plumbing problems homeowners experience. While it may seem like a minor annoyance, a continuously running toilet can waste hundreds of litres of water every day, increasing your water bills and potentially indicating a more serious plumbing issue.
If your toilet keeps running, understanding the cause can help you determine whether it’s a quick fix or time to call a professional plumber.
1. A Faulty Flapper Valve
The rubber flapper inside the cistern creates a seal after every flush. Over time it can become warped, cracked or coated with mineral deposits, allowing water to leak continuously into the toilet bowl.
Replacing a worn flapper is often an inexpensive solution.
2. The Fill Valve Needs Adjustment
If the fill valve is set too high, water continues flowing into the overflow tube instead of stopping at the correct level.
Adjusting or replacing the fill valve usually restores normal operation.
3. The Float Is Set Too High
Modern toilets use a float to control the water level inside the cistern. If the float sits too high, the cistern never stops filling.
A simple adjustment is often all that’s required.
4. The Flush Chain Is Too Tight
The chain connecting the flush button or handle to the flapper should have a small amount of slack.
If it’s too tight, the flapper cannot close properly, causing your leaking toilet to run constantly.
5. Worn Toilet Components
Older toilets naturally experience wear over time. Seals, valves and internal fittings eventually deteriorate, reducing efficiency and causing ongoing leaks.
Replacing the internal components can often extend the life of the toilet without requiring a complete replacement.
When Should You Call a Plumber?
If you’ve adjusted the float and checked the flapper but your toilet keeps running, it’s worth having a licensed plumber inspect the system.
Professional plumbers can quickly identify hidden issues such as cracked cisterns, damaged inlet valves or worn outlet seals that aren’t always obvious to homeowners.
If your toilet is also not flushing properly, leaking around the base or making unusual noises, professional repairs can prevent further water damage and unnecessary water waste.
Need Toilet Repairs?
At A to Z Plumbing, we provide professional toilet repairs, leak detection and general plumbing services across Sydney. Whether you have a constantly running toilet, a leaking cistern or a toilet that won’t flush correctly, our experienced plumbers can diagnose the problem and provide a lasting solution.
Contact our team today to book reliable toilet repair services.