Why Is My Toilet Constantly Running?

Why Is My Toilet Constantly Running?

Few things are more annoying—and wasteful—than the sound of a toilet that won’t stop running. Not only can it drive you crazy, but it can also waste hundreds of gallons of water a day and lead to surprisingly high water bills.

If you're in Pittsburgh or the surrounding suburbs and asking yourself, “Why is my toilet constantly running?”—you’re not alone. As trusted plumbers serving thousands of homeowners across the area, Revelation Plumbing is here to break down the most common causes, how to fix them, and when it’s time to call in a pro.

🚽 Common Reasons Your Toilet Keeps Running

Here are the top culprits behind a continuously running toilet:

1. Faulty Flapper Valve

The flapper is the rubber stopper at the bottom of the toilet tank. When you flush, it lifts to let water flow into the bowl, then seals shut to stop the water flow.

Over time, the flapper can:

• Become warped or brittle

• Get covered in mineral deposits

• Fail to seal completely

  

Signs this is your problem:

• You hear water trickling constantly

• Jiggle the handle, and the noise stops temporarily

  
  

🛠️ Quick Fix: Replace the flapper. It’s a simple, inexpensive repair that many homeowners can do themselves. Or, call Revelation Plumbing, and we’ll replace it with a long-lasting, high-quality part that won't fail prematurely.

2. Chain Is Too Short or Too Long

If the chain connected to your flapper is the wrong length, it may prevent the flapper from sealing properly.

• Too short? The flapper can’t close fully.

• Too long? It may get caught under the flapper.

  
  

🛠️ Quick Fix: Adjust the length of the chain so it has a slight slack when the flapper is closed.

3. Float Height Is Off

The float controls how much water fills the tank. If it's set too high, water will continuously flow into the overflow tube, causing the toilet to keep running.

🛠️ Quick Fix: Adjust the float arm or float cup, depending on your toilet model. If your toilet uses a ballcock system, gently bend the float arm downward.

4. Worn Fill Valve

The fill valve controls the water coming into the tank. If it’s old or faulty, it might not shut off properly—causing constant running.

🛠️ Quick Fix: Replace the fill valve. This is a moderate DIY job, but we recommend calling Revelation Plumbing if you’re unsure or don’t want to risk damaging your toilet.

5. Cracked or Dirty Overflow Tube

Sometimes, sediment buildup or a hairline crack in the overflow tube can allow water to flow constantly into the bowl.

🛠️ Quick Fix: Inspect the tube for cracks. If cracked or corroded, it will need professional replacement.

💸 What a Running Toilet Is Costing You

Ignoring a running toilet may seem harmless, but it can cost you in big ways:

• Wasted Water: A constantly running toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water per day.

• High Utility Bills: That can add $70–$100+ per month to your water bill.

• Potential Damage: If your toilet leaks internally or externally, it can damage your flooring or subfloor over time.

  
  

🛑 When to Call a Professional Plumber

Sometimes, a running toilet is just the symptom of a deeper issue. If you've tried basic fixes and your toilet still won’t stop, it's time to call in the pros.

Contact Revelation Plumbing if you notice:

• Water around the base of the toilet

• Multiple flushes don’t stop the running

• Water discoloration or rust stains

• The toilet refills slowly or loudly

• Frequent clogging combined with constant running

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We offer free estimates, no trip charges, and same-day service across the Pittsburgh metro. Our expert technicians can quickly diagnose the issue and give you options to repair or replace faulty parts—so you’re not flushing money down the drain.

🔧 Why Choose Revelation Plumbing?

We’re not just any plumbing company—we’re your local, trusted team of knights in shining armor who show up ready to rescue your home from plumbing headaches.

✔ Licensed, Insured, & Background-Checked

✔ Hundreds of 5-Star Reviews

✔ Same-Day & Emergency Services Available

✔ Free Estimates & No Trip Charges

✔ Transparent Pricing—No Hidden Fees

✔ Family-Owned & Operated

✔ Always On Time, Always Respectful

🧰 Repair Your Toilet Today

Your toilet shouldn’t be a daily annoyance. Stop worrying about wasted water and rising bills—let us help you fix it today. Call 412-518-7170