A toilet that won’t stop running is more than just an annoying sound – it can waste hundreds of litres of water each day and send your bills through the roof. The good news is that in most cases it’s a simple fix, and you may even be able to sort it yourself. If not, a local handyman in Blackburn can get it sorted quickly.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to diagnosing and repairing the problem.

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Common Causes of a Running Toilet

Most toilets work in the same way: a tank fills with water, a float rises, and when it reaches the right level, the water shuts off. If your toilet keeps running, one of these parts is usually at fault:

1. Faulty Flapper Valve
   • The rubber flapper at the bottom of the tank controls water flow into the bowl. If it’s worn or warped, water leaks through constantly.
2. Float Problems
   • If the float is set too high, the tank overfills and water spills into the overflow tube.
3. Fill Valve Issues
   • A faulty or worn fill valve can prevent the tank from shutting off properly.

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Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply

Find the shut-off valve behind or beside the toilet and turn it clockwise until the water stops.

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Step 2: Check the Flapper

• Remove the tank lid.
• Flush the toilet and watch the flapper at the bottom.
• If it doesn’t seal properly, try cleaning it or adjusting the chain length.
• If it’s damaged, replace it – they’re cheap and available at local DIY stores in Blackburn like B&Q or Screwfix.

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Step 3: Adjust the Float

• Look at the float (either a ball float or a cup-style float).
• If it’s too high, the water rises above the overflow tube.
• Adjust it so the water level sits about 2.5 cm (1 inch) below the overflow tube.

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Step 4: Inspect the Fill Valve

• If adjusting the float doesn’t solve it, the fill valve may be worn out.
• Replace it with a universal toilet fill valve kit – most can be fitted in under 30 minutes.

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Step 5: Turn the Water Back On & Test

• Turn the shut-off valve counter-clockwise to restore water.
• Flush the toilet a few times and check if the problem is solved.

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When to Call a Handyman in Blackburn

If you’ve tried the steps above and your toilet is still running, it’s time to call in a professional. A skilled handyman can quickly identify the fault and fix it before it wastes more water and money.

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Final Thoughts

A constantly running toilet is one of the most common household plumbing problems. Sometimes a quick adjustment or a cheap replacement part is all that’s needed – but if you’re not confident tackling it yourself, don’t ignore it.

👉 Looking for a reliable handyman in Blackburn?
I provide quick, affordable home repairs and plumbing fixes across Blackburn and the surrounding areas. Whether it’s a running toilet, leaking tap, or general maintenance, I’ll get it sorted fast.

📞 get in touch today for a free quote.