What to Do When Your Toilet Keeps Running All Night

A toilet that keeps running is more than just a nuisance. Over time, it can waste a significant amount of water, increase your utility bill, and indicate a plumbing issue that shouldn’t be ignored. Homeowners in Lawrence and the Kansas City Metro often notice this problem when the toilet seems to refill on its own or runs long after flushing.

Understanding what causes a running toilet can help you determine whether it’s a quick fix or time to call a professional plumber.

Common Causes of a Running Toilet

In most cases, a running toilet is caused by worn or misaligned internal components inside the tank.

Worn Flapper Valve
The flapper controls the flow of water from the tank to the bowl. If it becomes warped, cracked, or doesn’t seal properly, water will continue to leak into the bowl, causing the toilet to run.

Fill Valve Issues
If the fill valve is set too high or is malfunctioning, water may continuously flow into the overflow tube instead of shutting off when the tank is full.

Loose or Aging Parts
Over time, internal toilet components wear out. In older homes throughout the Lawrence and Kansas City Metro area, these parts may simply need replacement to restore proper function.

Quick Checks Homeowners Can Try

Before calling a plumber, there are a few simple things you can safely check:

  • Remove the tank lid and observe the water level

  • Make sure the water is not flowing into the overflow tube

  • Gently press the flapper to see if the running stops

  • Listen for water refilling when the toilet hasn’t been flushed

If the problem continues after these checks, the issue likely requires professional repair.

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore a Running Toilet

A toilet that runs constantly can waste hundreds of gallons of water each day. Beyond higher water bills, this added strain can also lead to:

  • Premature wear on plumbing components

  • Hidden leaks

  • Increased risk of overflow or failure

Addressing the issue early can help prevent more costly plumbing repairs down the road.

Professional Toilet Repair in Lawrence and the Kansas City Metro

If your toilet continues to run after basic adjustments, Fitzpatrick Plumbing can help. Our experienced plumbers can quickly identify the cause of the problem and recommend the most effective solution, whether that’s a repair or a replacement.

Learn more about our toilet services here:
👉 https://www.fitzpatrickplumbingllc.com/toilet-installations

Serving Lawrence and the Kansas City Metro

Fitzpatrick Plumbing proudly serves homeowners throughout Lawrence and the Kansas City Metro, including
Tonganoxie, Eudora, Baldwin City, Basehor, Shawnee, Lenexa, Overland Park, Olathe, and more!

As a local plumbing company, we understand the plumbing systems commonly found in homes throughout this area and provide dependable, professional service you can trust.

Need Help with a Running Toilet?

If your toilet won’t stop running, Fitzpatrick Plumbing is here to help. Our team provides professional toilet repair and replacement services to restore proper operation and prevent unnecessary water waste.

We can assist with:

  • Toilet repairs

  • Toilet replacements

  • Plumbing inspections

  • General plumbing repairs

Schedule service today to get your plumbing back on track:
👉 https://www.fitzpatrickplumbingllc.com/toilet-installations

Previous
Previous

DIY Tips for Detecting Hidden Leaks Before They Cause Damage

Next
Next

How to Prevent Frozen Pipes in Kansas Winters