A toilet that won’t stop running can be more than just an annoyance—especially in the quiet hours of the night—it can lead to water waste, high utility bills, and hidden plumbing damage over time. If you’re in Canby, Oregon, and have found yourself waking up to the sound of running water, you’re not alone.
In this blog, we’ll explain what causes this issue, how to diagnose it, provide DIY fixes, and help you know when it’s time to call a Canby plumbing expert at Einstein Pros.
Why a Running Toilet Is a Big Problem
According to the EPA, a running toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water per day. That’s nearly 6,000 gallons per month—money literally going down the drain. In many cases, the fix is simple and inexpensive.
Common Causes of a Running Toilet
Here are the most frequent culprits behind a running toilet:
1. Faulty Flapper
The flapper is a rubber seal that controls water flow from the tank to the bowl. If it’s warped, cracked, or doesn’t seat properly, water will keep leaking into the bowl, prompting the tank to constantly refill.
2. Worn Fill Valve
The fill valve controls how much water refills in the tank. If it’s not shutting off properly, water will continue to flow—even if everything else seems fine.
3. Incorrect Float Height
If the float (the device that rises with the water level) is set too high, it can cause the tank to overfill and drain through the overflow tube.
4. Leaky Flush Valve or Seal
The flush valve or the tank-to-bowl seal can wear down over time, especially if your water has high mineral content.
How to Diagnose a Running Toilet
Before diving into repairs, confirm the issue:
- Listen for the Sound: A steady hissing or dripping noise often means water is flowing continuously.
- Check the Water Level: Open the tank and see if water is overflowing into the overflow tube.
- Conduct a Dye Test: Add a few drops of food coloring into the tank and wait 15 minutes without flushing. If the bowl changes color, you likely have a flapper leak.
For more step-by-step guidance, the team at This Old House offers useful toilet troubleshooting visuals.
DIY Fixes You Can Try
1. Replace the Flapper
- Shut off the water supply valve under the toilet.
- Flush the toilet to empty the tank.
- Remove the old flapper and install a new one (available for under $10).
- Turn the water back on and test.
2. Adjust the Float
- If the float is too high, lower it by bending the arm or adjusting the screw on modern fill valves.
- The water line should sit about 1 inch below the overflow tube.
3. Replace the Fill Valve
- Turn off water supply.
- Remove the old fill valve.
- Install a universal fill valve, which typically comes with instructions.
- Turn the water back on and check for leaks.
4. Check for Sediment
Canby homes with hard water may experience mineral buildup. Clean the valve or flush the system to prevent malfunctioning components.
Pro Tip: Keep a toilet repair kit handy. These inexpensive kits contain a flapper, fill valve, and gaskets—all you need for most repairs.
When to Call a Professional in Canby
While some toilet repairs are DIY-friendly, it’s best to call a licensed plumber if:
- You’ve replaced parts and it still runs
- You notice leaks around the base of the toilet
- There are signs of water damage on your bathroom floor or ceiling below
At Einstein Pros Canby, we offer expert plumbing inspections and repairs, ensuring your toilet—and your peace of mind—are in perfect working order.
Preventive Maintenance Tips
To avoid future late-night disruptions:
- Inspect your toilet tank parts every 6 months.
- Don’t flush anything except toilet paper.
- Avoid using chemical tank cleaners, which can degrade rubber parts.
- Install WaterSense-labeled toilets to reduce future leaks and save water (source).
Final Thoughts
A constantly running toilet is more than just a minor irritation—it’s a sign of underlying issues that can drive up your water bills and cause structural damage. Most issues are easy to fix, but if the problem persists, the certified professionals at Einstein Pros Canby are ready to help.