Can I fix a running toilet myself, or should I call a professional in San Diego?

July 3, 2025

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A running toilet may seem like a minor annoyance, but it can waste hundreds of gallons of water each day and significantly raise your water bill. If you’ve ever jiggled the handle or taken the tank lid off to investigate the noise, you’re not alone. But how do you know whether it’s something you can handle yourself or if it’s time to bring in a professional plumber?

What Causes a Toilet to Keep Running?

Most running toilets are caused by one of the following issues:

Worn flapper: The rubber seal at the bottom of the tank doesn’t seal properly.
Faulty fill valve: The mechanism that refills the tank doesn’t shut off as it should.
Overflow problems: The water level in the tank is too high and spills into the overflow tube.
Chain or handle issues: The chain may be too short or tangled, or the handle may be sticking.

All of these problems can cause water to continuously leak into the bowl, keeping the toilet running long after it should have stopped.

Can You Fix It Yourself?

Some toilet problems are relatively simple and can be fixed with basic tools and a little patience. For example:

Replacing a flapper: This is a common DIY fix. Most flappers cost under $10 and can be swapped out in minutes.
Adjusting the float: If the water level is too high, adjusting the float arm or float cup may solve the problem.
Checking the chain: Untangling or lengthening the chain can stop the flapper from staying open.
Cleaning buildup: Mineral deposits can interfere with toilet components. Gentle cleaning can restore proper function.

If you’re comfortable using basic tools and following online instructions, you might be able to fix these issues on your own.

When You Should Call a Professional

While many running toilet issues are DIY-friendly, others require more advanced knowledge. Call a professional plumber in San Diego if:

The problem keeps returning even after replacing parts
You notice leaking water around the base or under the tank
There are signs of corrosion on internal components
You’re not confident in diagnosing or fixing the issue yourself

Sometimes, a running toilet is a symptom of a larger issue, such as high water pressure, a cracked tank, or poor installation. In these cases, delaying professional help can lead to water damage, mold, or even bigger plumbing bills.

Benefits of Hiring a Trusted San Diego Plumber

Calling an experienced plumber ensures the problem is diagnosed and resolved correctly the first time. At Fox Plumbing, we’ve been serving San Diego for over 40 years, and we understand the plumbing quirks of local homes and buildings. Our fast-response service means you don’t have to wait long to stop the water waste and restore peace and quiet to your bathroom.

Hiring a professional also gives you:

Peace of mind knowing the repair is done right
Warrantied parts and labor
Expert advice on how to prevent future issues
A full system check to catch other hidden problems early

Preventing a Running Toilet in the Future

To avoid running toilets in the future:

Don’t use chemical tank cleaners that can wear down rubber parts
Schedule regular plumbing inspections if your home is older
Replace aging parts proactively—especially flappers and fill valves
Avoid flushing anything but waste and toilet paper

Preventive maintenance can save you time, money, and gallons of wasted water.

How We Can Help

If you’re in San Diego and dealing with a toilet that won’t stop running—or any other plumbing issue—Fox Plumbing is here to help. With over 40 years of experience, top local ratings on Google, Yelp, and BBB, and a reputation for fast, friendly service, we’re the go-to plumbers San Diego trusts. Whether it’s a simple repair or a deeper plumbing problem, we’ll fix it right the first time.

Call Fox Plumbing today and stop wasting water—get your peace of mind back.