A toilet that never stops running is more than just annoying — it can waste thousands of litres of water every year and drive up your bills. In many cases, it’s a quick fix you can handle yourself. Other times, it’s a sign of a bigger plumbing issue that needs professional attention.
In this guide, we’ll explain the most common reasons your toilet keeps running, how to troubleshoot it, and when to call a licensed plumber.
1. Why a Running Toilet Matters
A constantly running toilet isn’t just background noise. It:
- Wastes water — a single running toilet can waste up to 700 litres per day.
- Increases bills — expect spikes on your next water bill.
- Signals hidden issues — leaks or system malfunctions often show up here first.
If your toilet hasn’t stopped running for days, it’s worth checking immediately before it becomes an expensive problem.
2. Quick DIY Checks Before You Panic
Sometimes the fix is simple:
- Check the flapper: Lift the cistern lid and make sure the rubber flapper is sealing properly. If it’s warped or doesn’t sit flat, water will constantly leak into the bowl.
- Inspect the chain: If the chain is tangled or too short, the flapper won’t close all the way.
- Look at the float: If the float is set too high, water keeps flowing into the overflow tube. Adjust it so the water stops about 2–3cm below the top.
These are easy fixes that anyone can try without tools.
3. Common Plumbing Causes of a Running Toilet
If the quick checks don’t work, it may be a bigger issue.
Worn Out Flapper Valve
The flapper is the most common culprit. Over time, it degrades and fails to form a watertight seal.
Faulty Fill Valve
If the fill valve is worn or clogged, it won’t shut off properly, causing constant running.
Leaky Pipes or Seals
Sometimes the problem isn’t in the toilet itself but in the pipes connected to it. A hidden leak could be affecting the pressure balance and water flow. Our leak detection service pinpoints these issues quickly.
Blocked Drain Impact
While a blocked drain usually shows up as slow drainage or overflows, pressure problems in your plumbing system can sometimes affect your toilet function too. If you’ve had other drainage issues, check out our blocked drains service.
4. Signs It’s More Than Just a Toilet Issue
If your toilet keeps running and you notice:
- Lower water pressure across the house
- Strange gurgling in pipes
- Water pooling where it shouldn’t
… then it could point to bigger plumbing problems. These issues might even be connected to your hot water system if pressure and flow are affected.
5. How to Prevent Running Toilet Problems
A bit of prevention goes a long way:
- Regularly check the cistern for signs of wear.
- Don’t flush foreign objects — wipes, sanitary products, and even “flushable” items can cause clogs.
- Schedule plumbing maintenance — a yearly check can save you from big repairs later.
6. When to Call a Professional Plumber
If you’ve tried the basics and the toilet still runs:
- You could be wasting hundreds of dollars in water bills.
- Hidden leaks can damage flooring and walls.
- DIY fixes won’t always last if the real problem is deeper in the system.
At ASAP Trades, we’re equipped to handle everything from quick toilet repairs to major plumbing overhauls.
👉 Contact us today for same-day service and a permanent fix.
7. The Bottom Line
A constantly running toilet isn’t just an inconvenience — it’s a warning sign. Fixing it quickly will save water, money, and stress.
Whether it’s a simple flapper replacement or a bigger leak hidden in your system, the licensed plumbers at ASAP Trades have you covered.
