That “Toilet Keeps Running” Sound is a Warning
When a toilet runs nonstop, it is not just annoying. It is a sign that water is slipping through the system when it should not. Over time, that steady trickle can raise your water bill and lead to other plumbing repair needs. As a local pro with Dixie Electric, Plumbing & Air, I help homeowners and business owners across Montgomery and Auburn-Opelika, AL and Columbus, GA fix running toilets every day. Here is what I want you to know—and how we can help with fast, reliable toilet repair.
Why a Running Toilet Costs More Than You Think
A running toilet wastes clean, treated water. You pay for that water even if no one used the toilet. The extra moisture can also stress your plumbing, wear out parts in the tank, and hide leaks you might otherwise catch early. Left alone, a simple fix can turn into a bigger, more expensive broken toilet situation.
The Most Common Causes (and what they look like)
Several small parts work together to make a toilet flush and refill. If one gets stuck, worn, or off-kilter, the toilet keeps running.
1) Worn or misaligned flapper
The flapper is the rubber piece at the bottom of the tank. It lifts when you flush and seals when the tank refills. If it is warped, dirty, or not centered, water seeps into the bowl and the tank never “thinks” it is full.
2) Chain problems
If the chain between the handle and flapper is too tight or tangled, the flapper cannot seal. If it is too loose, the flapper may not lift all the way and can land crooked.
3) Faulty fill valve
The fill valve controls water coming into the tank. When it sticks open or fails to read the water level, the valve keeps feeding water long after the tank should stop.
4) Float set too high
The float tells the fill valve when to shut off. If the float is set above the tank’s water line, water runs into the overflow tube, and the toilet refills again and again.
5) Cracked or corroded parts
A cracked overflow tube, brittle gaskets, or mineral buildup can create slow leaks and constant refills.
Quick Checks You Can Try
If you are comfortable taking off the tank lid, try these simple checks. If anything looks off—or you would rather not reach into the tank—skip to the next section and I will take it from there.
- Look at the flapper: Is it warped, gritty, or not centered? Gently clean the seat and reseat the flapper.
- Check the chain: It should have a little slack. Untangle knots and avoid chains that hold the flapper open.
- Adjust the float: Lowering the float so the water stops at the marked line can solve “overflow tube” run-on.
- Listen after a flush: If the water never fully stops, the fill valve may be the issue.
- Skip tank tablets: Strong chemicals can break down rubber parts and create more repairs later.
If these steps do not fix the problem—or the toilet starts running again after a day or two—it is time for professional toilet repair.
When to Call Dixie for Expert Plumbing Repair
You do not have to live with that constant hiss. Our licensed plumbers handle running toilets all the time. We inspect the full flush system, test the water level and shutoff, and replace worn parts with quality components that last. If we find a deeper issue—like a cracked overflow tube or a problem with water pressure—we address it on the spot and offer clear options before any work starts.
Homeowners and business owners in Montgomery and Auburn-Opelika, AL, and Columbus, GA count on us for prompt arrivals, honest recommendations, and clean work areas. Because we know downtime costs you money, we work efficiently and keep you informed the whole way.
Why Choose Dixie Electric, Plumbing & Air?
We have been family owned and operated since 1908, and our reputation is built on skilled people, dependable products, and a commitment to do the job right. When you call Dixie, you get:
- Licensed, experienced plumbers who diagnose the real cause, not just the symptom
- Upfront pricing with options that fit your budget and timeline
- Quality parts that help prevent repeat problems
- Respect for your space—we protect floors, clean up, and communicate clearly
- Full-service support if you also need help with other fixtures, leak checks, or water heaters
Preventing future run-ons
A few simple habits can reduce the chance of a running toilet later:
- Lift the tank lid after any “strange” flush to spot a stuck flapper or chain before it wastes water.
- Avoid harsh tank cleaners that wear out seals and flappers.
- Schedule a routine plumbing inspection, especially in older buildings where parts may be brittle or mineral-coated.
- Call early if you notice phantom flushes or random refills; small issues are faster and cheaper to fix.
Ready to stop the flow? We are here to help.
If your toilet keeps running, do not let it drain your budget or your patience. Dixie Electric, Plumbing & Air is ready to fix it fast with friendly, professional service. Whether you are in Montgomery, Auburn-Opelika, or Columbus, GA, we can inspect, repair, or replace the parts causing the problem—and make sure your toilet flushes the way it should.
Final Thoughts
Stop the waste today. Schedule your toilet repair with Dixie Electric, Plumbing & Air now—use our easy online booking or give us a quick call. We will get your toilet quiet, efficient, and worry-free so you can focus on what matters.
