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Plumbing · Sourced answer

Why is my toilet constantly running, and how do I fix it?

Inquiries typically focus on faulty flappers, improper float adjustments, or defective fill valves wasting water.

The answer

A continuously running toilet wastes 200–1,000+ gal/day. Caused by:

  1. Worn rubber flapper (perform food coloring dye test; if color enters bowl within 15 min, replace flapper)
  2. Float set too high (adjust float so water level is 1 inch below overflow tube)
  3. Failed fill valve diaphragm (replace assembly if valve fails to shut off when float is lifted).

Sources

This answer is drawn from the standards and guidance below. It is general information about how these systems work — not a diagnosis of your property.

  1. US EPA WaterSense Fix a Leak Guide
  2. US EPA WaterSense Residential Toilets