January 28, 2026

Why Your Toilet Keeps Running And How To Stop It

Step-by-step plumbing guidance from East Mountain Plumber. Serving Edgewood, Moriarty, and the East Mountains.

Call (505) 596-3027 Request Service
Written by East Mountain Plumber • Serving Edgewood, NM, Moriarty, NM

A toilet that runs continuously is one of the most common and costly plumbing problems in Moriarty homes. Many homeowners ignore the sound thinking it is harmless but a running toilet can waste hundreds of gallons of water every day and significantly increase monthly utility bills.

How a toilet is supposed to work

When you flush the tank empties and the fill valve refills it to a preset level. The flapper then seals the tank stopping water flow. When any of these parts fail water continues flowing endlessly into the bowl.

Most common causes of running toilets

Worn flapper valve

The rubber flapper seals the tank opening. Over time it hardens warps or cracks allowing water to leak into the bowl.

Faulty fill valve

If the fill valve does not shut off properly water overflows into the overflow tube and keeps running.

Improper float adjustment

If the float is set too high the tank never stops filling and water constantly drains through the overflow.

Chain problems

A chain that is too short or tangled prevents the flapper from sealing completely.

How much water a running toilet wastes

A constantly running toilet can waste between 200 and 1000 gallons per day. Over a month this can add hundreds of dollars to your water bill.

DIY fixes that sometimes work

  • Replace the flapper
  • Adjust the float height
  • Replace worn fill valves
  • Check chain length

When to call a plumber

If the toilet continues running after replacing basic parts or if you notice leaks at the base or supply line professional repair is recommended.

Hidden damage risks

Constant running places stress on valves seals and the flush mechanism causing premature failure. Leaks at the base can rot flooring and subflooring.

Professional toilet repair in Moriarty

Most running toilet repairs take less than one hour and immediately stop water waste. Modern replacement parts improve efficiency and reliability.

For Moriarty homeowners we provide fast toilet diagnostics and repairs to eliminate leaks reduce water bills and restore proper flushing.

Need hands-on help?

If you’re dealing with an active leak, sewage backup, no water, or anything that could cause damage, call now. We’ll recommend the fastest realistic next step.