How to Fix a Running Toilet: Step-by-Step Guide | Trav's Plumbing & HVAC
A toilet that won’t stop running is more than just annoying—it can quietly waste hundreds of gallons of water every day.
The good news?
Most running toilet issues are easy to fix, and you don’t always need to be a plumber to do it.
Here’s exactly how to fix a running toilet, step by step, using tools you probably already have at home.
Let’s get your bathroom quiet again.
What Causes a Toilet to Keep Running?
A toilet runs when water keeps flowing into the tank or bowl after a flush.
The usual suspects are:
Worn-out flapper valve – This rubber piece seals the flush valve. If it’s old or warped, water leaks through constantly.
Faulty fill valve – This is what refills the tank. If it doesn’t shut off properly, the tank overfills and water leaks into the overflow tube.
Float issues – If the float is set too high, the tank will keep filling until it overflows.
Chain problems – A chain that's too short or tangled can prevent the flapper from sealing properly.
Flush valve seal leaks – Cracks or wear in the valve itself can let water trickle into the bowl.
Signs Your Toilet Is Running (Even If You Don’t Hear It)
Sometimes, a running toilet doesn’t make noise.
Keep an eye out for:
A water bill that suddenly jumps
A faint trickling sound or regular refilling
Water movement in the bowl without flushing
Phantom flushes (it flushes by itself)
If you’re seeing any of these, your toilet is probably leaking somewhere.
Tools You’ll Need to Fix a Running Toilet
You don’t need much.
Grab:
A small adjustable wrench
A replacement flapper or fill valve (you can pick one up at any hardware store)
A towel or sponge
A small bucket
Rubber gloves (optional, but makes the job less gross)
Toilet Tank Diagram – Knowing these parts makes fixing a running toilet way easier.
Step-by-Step: How to Fix a Running Toilet
Here’s the part you came for.
This guide works for most standard toilets.
Step 1 – Shut Off the Water
Look for the shut-off valve behind the toilet near the floor.
Turn it clockwise to stop water from flowing into the tank.
Step 2 – Remove the Tank Lid
Lift the lid and set it somewhere safe.
Be careful—it’s fragile.
Now flush the toilet to empty the tank.
Step 3 – Check the Flapper
Is the flapper (that rubber seal at the bottom of the tank) not closing all the way?
Is it cracked, warped, or sticky?
If yes, it’s probably the problem.
Step 4 – Replace the Flapper (If Needed)
Turn off the water, drain the tank, unclip the old flapper from the overflow tube, and install a new one.
Most are universal and easy to replace.
Make sure the chain has just enough slack to close properly—not too loose, not too tight.
Step 5 – Check the Fill Valve
If the tank keeps filling endlessly, the fill valve might be the culprit.
Turn the water off again, remove the old valve (follow the instructions on the replacement kit), and install a new one.
Step 6 – Adjust the Float
If the float is too high, water keeps pouring into the overflow tube.
Adjust the float lower so the water shuts off about 1 inch below the overflow tube top.
Step 7 – Turn the Water Back On and Test
Turn the valve back on and let the tank fill.
Flush and make sure everything works as it should.
If the water stops at the right level and the toilet goes quiet—success.
When to Call a Plumber Instead of DIY
Not every toilet issue is DIY-friendly.
Call a plumber if:
You’ve replaced parts but the toilet is still running
You see water pooling around the base
The shut-off valve doesn’t work
You’re just over it and want someone else to handle it
If you're in Southern Manitoba, our team at Trav’s Plumbing & HVAC can get it fixed quickly.
No stress, no mess.
How Much Water Does a Running Toilet Waste?
A constantly running toilet can waste 200 to 300 gallons per day.
That’s not just bad for the environment—it’s rough on your water bill too.
Fixing it quickly can save you money and prevent bigger plumbing problems down the road.
Need Help With a Running Toilet in Southern Manitoba?
If your toilet keeps running no matter what you try, give us a shout at Trav’s Plumbing & HVAC.
We’re local, fast, and friendly—and we’ve fixed more toilets than we can count.
Call now or book online. We’ll get your toilet sorted—no judgment, no fuss.
FAQs About Fixing a Running Toilet
Why won’t my toilet stop running after flushing?
Most likely, the flapper isn’t sealing or the fill valve is stuck open. Check those two parts first.
How do I know if I need a new toilet flapper?
If the rubber is worn, cracked, or not sitting flat on the valve seat, it’s time for a new one.
Can a running toilet increase my water bill?
Absolutely. Even a slow leak can add up to hundreds of extra gallons per week.
Should I replace or repair my toilet fill valve?
If it’s old or not shutting off properly, replacing it is usually faster and more reliable.
Is it safe to use a toilet if it’s running?
It won’t hurt you, but it’ll drain your wallet over time. Plus, if the overflow starts leaking, you could end up with water damage.
