Why Your Toilet Keeps Running (And How to Fix It)

By Silco Plumbing | Kalispell, MT

📞 406-471-1851 | 🌐 www.silcoplumbingmt.com

A running toilet might seem like a minor annoyance, but it can waste hundreds of gallons of water per day — especially important in areas like Flathead County where efficiency matters.

Here’s what’s usually causing it.

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1. Worn-Out Flapper

The rubber flapper inside your tank can warp or deteriorate over time, allowing water to continuously leak into the bowl.

Quick Fix: Turn off the water supply, drain the tank, and replace the flapper with a matching model.

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2. Chain Problems

If the chain is too short, too long, or tangled, it can prevent the flapper from sealing properly.

Quick Fix: Adjust the chain so there’s slight slack when closed.

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3. Faulty Fill Valve

A malfunctioning fill valve may continue running long after the tank is full.

Quick Fix: Adjust the float or replace the fill valve if needed.

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4. Cracked Overflow Tube

If the water level is too high, it spills into the overflow tube, causing constant running.

Quick Fix: Adjust the float height so water stops about one inch below the overflow tube.

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When to Call a Professional for a Running Toilet

If you’ve tried these fixes and the problem persists, there may be deeper internal issues. Our licensed plumbers at Silco Plumbing can quickly diagnose and repair toilet problems to prevent wasted water and higher utility bills.

📍 Proudly serving Kalispell, MT 📞 406-471-1851 🌐 www.silcoplumbingmt.com

Stop the running water — and the running bill.