Introduction
A constantly running toilet is one of the most common plumbing complaints among homeowners. It may start as a faint sound in the background, but over time it becomes a source of frustration and higher water bills. Many people assume it is a simple annoyance, but a running toilet often signals worn components that need attention.
At Trade Pro Plumbing, we regularly repair running toilets for homeowners in Fayetteville, Springdale, Rogers, and Bentonville. In this blog, we will explain why toilets continue running after flushing, what parts are usually responsible, and when it is time to call a professional plumber.
How a Toilet Works
Understanding the basic function of a toilet helps identify why it may keep running.
When you flush, water from the tank flows into the bowl, washing waste through the drain. As the tank empties, the fill valve opens to refill it. Once the water reaches the correct level, the fill valve shuts off, and the toilet is ready for the next flush.
If any component fails to seal, align, or shut off properly, the toilet will continue running.
Most Common Reasons a Toilet Keeps Running
- Worn or Misaligned Flapper
The flapper is a rubber valve at the bottom of the tank that seals the opening to the bowl. Over time, flappers can warp, crack, or harden.
When the flapper does not seal properly, water continuously leaks from the tank into the bowl. The fill valve senses the drop in water level and keeps refilling the tank.
Signs of a bad flapper include:
- Continuous refilling sounds
- Water trickling into the bowl
- A toilet that runs intermittently
Flapper replacement is a common repair, but choosing the correct size and ensuring proper alignment is critical.
- Faulty Fill Valve
The fill valve controls how water enters the tank. If this valve becomes worn or clogged with sediment, it may not shut off completely.
A failing fill valve can cause:
- Constant running water
- Inconsistent water levels
- Hissing or spraying sounds inside the tank
Homes in Northwest Arkansas with hard water often experience faster fill valve wear due to mineral buildup.
- Float Set Too High
The float regulates when the fill valve shuts off. If the float is set too high, water flows into the overflow tube instead of stopping at the correct level.
This causes the fill valve to keep running continuously.
Adjusting the float can sometimes fix the issue, but repeated problems usually indicate worn components that should be replaced.
- Cracked or Leaking Overflow Tube
The overflow tube prevents the tank from overfilling. If it cracks or leaks below the water line, water escapes into the bowl nonstop.
This issue is often overlooked and typically requires professional repair or replacement of internal tank components.
- Loose or Deteriorated Chain
The chain connecting the flush handle to the flapper can also cause problems. If it is too short, it may prevent the flapper from sealing. If it is too long, it can get caught under the flapper.
Either situation allows water to leak continuously into the bowl.
Why You Should Not Ignore a Running Toilet
A running toilet may seem harmless, but it can waste a surprising amount of water.
A single running toilet can waste:
- Up to 200 gallons per day
- Over 6,000 gallons per month
- Thousands of dollars over time
In addition to higher water bills, constant water flow increases wear on toilet components and plumbing connections.
What You Can Check Yourself
Before calling a plumber, you can perform a few simple checks:
- Remove the tank lid and inspect the flapper
- Ensure the chain is properly aligned
- Check the water level in the tank
- Look for water flowing into the overflow tube
If the problem returns after adjustments, professional repair is recommended.
When to Call a Plumber
You should contact Trade Pro Plumbing if:
- The toilet continues running after replacing parts
- Multiple toilets are running or malfunctioning
- You notice leaks around the base of the toilet
- The tank components are old or corroded
- Water bills continue to rise unexpectedly
Professional plumbers can diagnose the problem accurately and prevent repeat issues.
How Trade Pro Plumbing Fixes Running Toilets
At Trade Pro Plumbing, we provide comprehensive toilet repair services designed for long-term reliability.
Our process includes:
- Inspecting all internal components
- Identifying worn or incompatible parts
- Replacing flappers, fill valves, or floats as needed
- Testing water levels and shutoff performance
- Checking for hidden leaks or pressure issues
We ensure the toilet operates efficiently and meets current plumbing standards.
Preventing Future Toilet Problems
To keep your toilet running properly:
- Avoid using in-tank cleaning tablets
- Replace worn parts proactively
- Schedule routine plumbing inspections
- Address minor running issues immediately
Preventive maintenance helps extend the life of your toilet and reduce water waste.
Why Choose Trade Pro Plumbing
Homeowners across Northwest Arkansas trust Trade Pro Plumbing for honest service and dependable repairs. Our licensed plumbers use quality replacement parts and proven techniques to fix toilet issues correctly the first time.
Whether your toilet runs continuously or intermittently, we provide fast service and clear communication from start to finish.
Conclusion
A toilet that keeps running after flushing is more than an inconvenience. It wastes water, increases utility bills, and often signals worn internal components that need attention.
If your toilet will not stop running, Trade Pro Plumbing is ready to help. We proudly serve homeowners throughout Northwest Arkansas with expert toilet repair services you can trust.
Contact Trade Pro Plumbing today to stop the water waste and restore proper toilet performance.
