Can a constantly running toilet cause problems?

Author: Lyric Howe  |  Last update: Sunday, November 16, 2025

Depending on why your toilet is constantly running, you can face a number of other problems, too. A leak toward the base of your toilet can lead to serious water damage in your bathroom as the water leaks through your floor, subflooring, and more.

Is a toilet constantly running bad?

Water running in a toilet constantly is usually a sign that there's a leak or toilet repair issue. And the longer you put it off, the more damage can occur. Read on to learn why the moment you ask yourself, “Why does my toilet keep running water?” you should call a professional to have it repaired.

What happens if a toilet runs all night while?

What happens if a toilet runs all night? If a toilet runs all night it will waste water and increase your water bill. Excess water can potentially flood your septic tank and lead to failure and saturation of your drain field.

How long can you leave a toilet off?

How Long Can You Turn Off Water to a Toilet? Like turning off your toilet's water for a night, it's safe to do so for a week. While you can keep your toilet water off for as long as you'd like, we wouldn't recommend it unless you have a problem with your toilet's plumbing system.

Will a running toilet increase the water bill?

A continuously running toilet can waste up to 200 gallons a day or more depending on the volume flow down the drain. This can cause a terrible increase to a family's typical water use, so fix toilet leaks as soon as possible. Some leaks are easy to find, such as a dripping faucet or running toilet.

How to fix a running toilet. The two most common causes.

How much does it cost to fix a toilet that won t stop running?

Toilet Repair Costs by Issue

Running Toilet: Repairing a running toilet costs $100–$400. Causes include a leaky flapper, too much water in the tank, or refill tube issues. Leaky Toilet: Expect to pay $100–$600 for leaky toilet repairs.

Should I turn off the water to my toilet if it keeps running?

No need to worry, a running toilet is usually a simple fix. The three most common causes are a broken or dirty flapper, too long or too short of a chain between the flush lever and the flapper or a float that is out of position. The first thing you will need to do is turn off the water feeding into the toilet.

How to cover a toilet drain hole permanently?

Internal PVC pipe cutters accurately cut off pvc pipe from inside. Once you have removed the flange, you should cap the pipe with the proper size and material cap for your drain, then you can close up the floor overtop with concrete patch.

What is the average life of a toilet?

One of the most used fixtures in your home, the toilet, on average has a lifespan of 10-15 years. For being used as often as it is, the toilet can withstand a lot. Unfortunately, there will come a time when you need to replace your toilet.

Will a running toilet stop on its own?

A running toilet will rarely stop on its own. Sometimes, jiggling the toilet handle will temporarily seal the flapper back into place at the bottom of the tank. But usually, you will need to replace a few parts to fix the problem.

Can a running toilet increase the electric bill?

If you live in an apartment or condo, a running toilet may also cause your electric bill to go up. This is because some apartments and condos add a little hot water to the toilet tank to prevent condensation on the tank.

Is an hour on the toilet too long?

Don't sit on the toilet for more than 10 minutes, doctors warn.

What happens if your toilet runs all night?

Not literally, of course – but your water bill will skyrocket if your toilet is constantly running. More often than not, continuously running toilets are extremely easy and inexpensive to fix – you might just need to replace the flapper. A constantly running toilet also presents an increased risk of flooding.

When I flush my toilet, it fills up with water then slowly drains.?

Check your water levels

Low water levels in your tank are common causes of toilets filling up with water when flushed. They can also cause slow-draining toilets. You can manually top up your tank with water to help the flush. Then, check the flush tube for cracks and bends that lead to leaks.

Is a running toilet urgent?

A call during regular business hours for a plumber to visit is likely okay. Emergency response is warranted if your toilet is gushing water or the leakage is intense, no matter where it's coming from. When large volumes of water are released, flooding and water penetration into walls and flooring happen rapidly.

How to block an unused drain?

Disused drains and sewers can be permanently blocked off using our expanding polyurethane resin foam in our DRAINBLOCK BAG™ which is based on the FOAMBAG™ technique the company initially developed for use in the gas distribution industry. To prevent the passage of rats and other vermin why not use our RATBLOCK BAG™.

How do I keep my toilet drain clear?

The main thing you can do for your plumbing system is to clean drains once a week. This can be done easily with a little baking soda and apple cider vinegar. Simply pour the two substances down the drain and let it foam up before flushing the toilet. This will clear out any small clogs forming in your system.

How to plug a toilet drain temporarily?

Ok, the easiest option is to get an all plastic expanding test plug (see attached pic). You want to be sure it's all plastic (no steel parts) so it doesn't rust up before you take it out. Then once you pull the toilet you just insert it into the pipe and tighten up the wing nut until it's tight.

Should I be worried about a running toilet?

A toilet that runs can go through hundreds of gallons of water in a day, equaling hundreds, maybe even thousands, of dollars over time. Most of the time, the root of the issue isn't so serious. More often than not, the flapper valve could need adjustment, or you may need to replace the toilet fill valve.

Will my water bill go up if my toilet keeps running?

The most common cause for a high water bill is running water from your toilet. A continuously running toilet can waste up to 200 gallons a day or more depending on the volume flow down the drain. This can cause a terrible increase to a family's typical water use, so fix toilet leaks as soon as possible.

Can a running toilet cause a high sewer bill?

The most common source of abnormally high water/sewer bills is leaky plumbing inside the property. More often than not, the source of that leak is a toilet.

Do I need a plumber to replace a toilet fill valve?

Replacing a toilet valve can be a DIY project manageable with basic tools like wrenches and pliers. However, if the valve system is complicated or the problem persists after trying to fix it yourself, it's best to call a professional plumber to ensure everything is correctly fixed.

How much does a plumber charge to unclog a toilet?

A plumber can fix a clogged toilet tank for $100 to $250. A clog may prevent the toilet tank from filling with water. This may make it impossible to flush because water cannot be transferred to the toilet bowl. In most cases, removing the clog can be done using a simple snake (with or without a camera) or an auger.

Previous article
Why won't my AC go below 73?
Next article
How many washing machines does the average laundromat have?