Why Your Toilet Keeps Running (And How to Fix It) — Columbia & Lexington Guide
Stephanie Carwell - 04/07/2026
A running toilet may seem like a small issue, but it can waste hundreds of gallons of water per day and significantly increase your water bill.
Homeowners in Columbia, Lexington, and Irmo often notice their toilet running continuously or refilling periodically. While some causes are simple, others may indicate a larger plumbing issue.
Let’s break down the most common causes.
Worn or Damaged Flapper
The most common cause of a running toilet is a worn flapper.
The flapper seals water inside the tank. Over time, it can:
- Warp
- Crack
- Lose flexibility
When this happens, water slowly leaks into the bowl and triggers the fill valve.
Signs of a bad flapper:
- Toilet refills every few minutes
- You hear water running constantly
- Water level slowly drops in the tank
Faulty Fill Valve
The fill valve controls water entering the tank after a flush.
If the fill valve is worn or misadjusted, the tank may continue filling unnecessarily.
Signs include:
- Hissing sound
- Water constantly running
- Inconsistent tank water level
Chain Problems
Sometimes the chain connecting the handle to the flapper gets stuck or tangled.
If the chain is too tight, the flapper may not close fully.
This allows water to leak continuously.
Water Level Set Too High
If the water level in the tank is too high, it may spill into the overflow tube.
This causes the toilet to refill repeatedly.
Adjusting the float may solve the issue.
Why You Should Fix a Running Toilet Quickly
A running toilet can waste:
- 200+ gallons per day
- Thousands of gallons per month
- Increased water bills
In some cases, a running toilet may also indicate hidden leaks or pressure issues.
Learn more about leak detection services: https://www.freedom-plumbing.com/plumbing-services/leak-detection
Other Plumbing Issues to Watch For
Sometimes homeowners also notice:
- Low water pressure
- Slow drains
- Gurgling toilets
These issues may indicate larger plumbing system problems.
Learn more about drain cleaning services: https://www.freedom-plumbing.com/plumbing-services/drain-cleaning
When to Call a Plumber
Call a plumber if:
- The toilet keeps running after adjustments
- Water bills suddenly increase
- You suspect hidden leaks
- Multiple plumbing issues appear
Freedom Plumbing Inc. proudly serves:
- Columbia
- Lexington
- Irmo
- Chapin
- West Columbia
- Cayce
View service areas: https://www.freedom-plumbing.com/service-area
Call (803) 447-0471