What makes a toliet run every once in a while?

Sue Oszust
by Sue Oszust
  8 answers
  • Pat Pat on Nov 28, 2017

    Look to see that the rubber flopper in the toilet tank is seating properly....may need new one or an adjustment of the chain that holds it. Sometimes the chain gets caught and all you need to do is straighten it out.

  • Jewellmartin Jewellmartin on Nov 28, 2017

    Either the handle is caught up on the chain in the tank, the chain is too loose, or the valve in the bottom of the tank is not closing completely. If the tank had a big rubber bulb, the chain is not in the right place for the bulb (float) to balance to the top lever stops letting water. If the toilet runs all the time, parts may need to be replaced. But everything comes in kits at the plumbing or hardware store or department. 😇

  • Ter29393207 Ter29393207 on Nov 28, 2017

    Your flapper is leaking. What a waste of water. Go to Lowes/Home depot or any hardware store and buy a new one. It does not cost that much and best of all YOU can do the job yourself, saving lots of money by not calling in a plumber.

  • Barbara Barbara on Nov 28, 2017

    The “clapper” in the tank usually is the reason. Sometimes when the toilet is flushed, the clapper does not close properly, so the float does not rise and stop the tank from continuing to try and fill. You may just need to replace the clapper. If it is a newer tank “system “ you may need a plumber.

  • Josephine Josephine on Nov 28, 2017

    Probably the drop ball or rubber gasket is not dropping down properly on the pipe or worn out, there could also be dirt in the water getting caught ,replacing everything inside as a last resort. We have done all 3 things throu the years.

  • 27524803 27524803 on Nov 28, 2017

    Normally the toilet runs when the "flapper" valve at the bottom of the tank doesn't close all the way... they get less flexible with age and don't close properly every time... just replace it.. there are kits in the plumbing department at most home improvement stores and Walmart has some too.

  • Ter29393207 Ter29393207 on Nov 28, 2017

    You can pull up the internet on how to troubleshoot for any kind of repair. It will also have videos to help you see what they are talking about. It will definitely help you.


  • William William on Nov 28, 2017

    I agree with most of the suggestions. The flapper is old or not sealing properly or the chain is too tight. Make sure there is some slack in the chain so the flapper falls and seals. Older flappers do get hard and out of shape and stop sealing. if it's never been replace best would be to replace it.