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Toilet keeps running: how to check the flush yourself
If your toilet keeps running after flushing, the flush valve in the cistern usually does not close properly or the button is stuck. Check the button and flush plate first, then the valve seal and the float. Below we explain how to recognise the problem and check it step by step.
👷 Calling in a professional is never unnecessary. If water comes from the wall, the cistern keeps leaking or the concealed frame has to be opened, call a certified installer. Work inside the wall and on water pipes is not a DIY job.
First recognise what is happening
- Water keeps trickling into the bowl: often the flush valve does not close well or there is dirt under a seal.
- The cistern fills and starts again and again: the float mechanism may be sticking or set too high.
- The button stays pressed: check whether the chrome gloss flush plate moves freely and is not sticking behind dirt or limescale. A different finish such as a round flush plate in matt black only fits if the system and control match.
What do you need?
- A screwdriver set for an inspection cover and a adjustable wrench or water pump pliers set for a fitting you only check hand-tight.
- An 12-litre bucket or a construction bucket and a cloth to catch water.
- An inspection plate for the cistern if your cistern has that facility. Also read our blog on choosing a concealed cistern before replacing parts.
Step-by-step plan
- Turn off the water supply to the toilet if you are going to work on the cistern and flush once.
- Remove the flush plate carefully in the way it clips or screws on. Do not pull on pipes or rods.
- Look without forcing: is there visible dirt, limescale or a loose part? Rinse loose dirt away with clean water, for example carefully with a Luvio shower head outside the cistern if that can be done safely.
- Check the movement: press the flush by hand and let go. Everything must spring back freely.
- Refit the plate and test. If it keeps running, stop and call an installer. Replacing a whole Aqua concealed frame or System concealed frame is work for a professional.
Working safely and tidily
Wear work gloves with nitrile coating in the cistern and safety goggles when working with pliers near a fitting. Lay parts on a cloth in order and take a photo of the arrangement before you loosen anything. In our blog on rimless wall-hung toilets you can read which toilet sets and frames belong together and in our blog on the quiet Cersanit Vortex toilet how economical and quiet flushing works.
Do I waste a lot of water if the toilet keeps running?
The water runs away unnoticed, so do not leave it for weeks. Turning it off and having it checked is sensible, even if the fault seems small.
Can I replace a complete concealed cistern myself?
That is usually not a small job, because the frame sits in the wall and everything must be connected watertight and straight. Leave that to an installer.
Are you planning a new toilet or a different layout straight away? Look first at our blog on the bathroom configurator.
Read also: Choosing a concealed cistern, Rimless wall-hung toilets and The quiet Cersanit Vortex toilet
Where can you find everything for this job?
At Saniso, the online store for DIYers and professionals, you will find tools, materials and personal protective equipment for your job.
- Browse our construction tools and our workwear and safety.
- Create a customer account and order easily.
- Working on a bigger project or want to hand over the job? Request a project quote.
- Book a showroom visit, at least 24 hours in advance.
- Not sure which material suits your job? Get in touch with us.
In doubt about the approach? Feel free to call in a professional.
Saniso – Build your home with Saniso.
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