A running toilet may seem like a small nuisance, but over time it can lead to significant water waste and higher utility bills. What many homeowners don’t realize is just how much water a running toilet can consume. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), a single running toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water per day. Over the course of a month, that adds up to thousands of gallons—and a hefty increase on your water bill.

Most cases of running toilets stem from problems inside the tank. The most common culprit is the flapper valve—a small, rubber component that controls the release of water from the tank into the bowl when you flush. When the flapper becomes worn out, misaligned, or fails to seal properly, water continuously leaks into the bowl. This causes the fill valve to repeatedly refill the tank, creating the familiar sound of a toilet that "runs" even when no one has used it.

Another potential issue lies with the fill valve, which regulates the water level in the tank. If the valve is set too high or is malfunctioning, it may cause water to spill into the overflow tube, triggering a constant cycle of draining and refilling. Similarly, a misadjusted or deteriorating float—used to indicate when the tank is full—can send incorrect signals to the valve, keeping the flow going unnecessarily.

Homeowners may also notice mineral buildup or sediment affecting the movement of these internal components, especially in areas with hard water. Over time, even minor misalignments or corrosion can disrupt the balance inside the toilet tank.

The good news is that running toilets are often a simple and affordable fix. In many cases, replacing the flapper or adjusting the float can resolve the issue. However, if you are unsure of the cause or feel uncomfortable tackling it yourself, calling a licensed plumber can ensure the repair is done properly and prevent further water waste.

Ignoring a running toilet isn’t just a matter of a few extra cents on the bill—it’s an ongoing waste of resources that can quickly add up. If you hear your toilet cycling long after a flush or notice your water bill increasing without explanation, it may be time to investigate what's going on inside the tank.

At Applause Plumbing and Heating, we help homeowners find and fix these everyday plumbing problems with expert service. If your toilet won’t stop running, contact us today and let us help you solve the issue before it becomes a costly drain on your wallet and the environment.