My Toilet Won't Stop Running!

by J&J on March 28, 2025

If your toilet won't stop running, you're not alone. It's one of the most common plumbing problems homeowners face - and one of the most frustrating. Not only does it waste water, but it also increases your utility bills and can signal deeper plumbing issues. At J&J Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric, we help Northeast Ohio homeowners stop that constant flow and restore peace to their bathrooms. Here's how to spot the issue and what you can do about it.

1. Handle Trouble

A handle that sticks can keep the toilet in flush mode, allowing water to continuously run into the bowl.

What To Do: Gently press or jiggle the handle to see if it resets. If not, check the mechanism inside the tank and consider replacing the handle if it's worn.

2. Damaged Flapper

A worn or cracked flapper can't seal properly, letting water leak through constantly.

What To Do: Turn off the water, drain the tank, and replace the flapper with a compatible one. Ensure the chain has a slight slack.

3. Chain Problems

A chain that's too short or tangled keeps the flapper from closing fully, while one that's too long can get caught under the flapper.

What To Do: Adjust the chain length so it has about half an inch of slack when the flapper is closed.

4. Misadjusted Float

The float determines the water level. If it's too high, your toilet won't stop filling.

What To Do: For ball floats, gently bend the rod downward. For float cups, adjust the screw or clip to lower the float.

5. Faulty Fill Valve

If water is leaking from the fill valve, it may be defective and unable to shut off the flow.

What To Do: Inspect the valve and replace it if necessary. Always shut off the water before removal.

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6. High Water Pressure

Water pressure that's too high can overpower your fill valve.

What To Do: A licensed plumber can install a pressure-reducing valve on your home's main water line to bring things back to normal.

7. Cracked Overflow Tube

If your overflow tube is cracked, water will leak down into the toilet bowl without stopping.

What To Do: If you spot a crack, you'll likely need to replace the flush valve assembly.

8. Sediment Buildup

Minerals from hard water can coat internal toilet components, making them malfunction.

What To Do: Regularly clean the inside of the tank and soak parts in vinegar to remove buildup. Heavily affected parts may need replacing.

9. Time for a Replacement

If your toilet has seen better days, sometimes repairs just don't cut it.

What To Do: Consider upgrading to a high-efficiency toilet that conserves water and reduces your bill long-term.

Trusted Plumbing Help in Northeast Ohio

Still hearing that telltale trickle? Let J&J Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric take care of it. We offer professional, prompt service across Northeast Ohio, and we'll fix your plumbing issues right the first time.

We recommend fixing a toilet clog before it becomes a plumbing emergency, but call us when any plumbing complications arise.