A malfunctioning toilet can disrupt your entire day. From constant running water that spikes your bill, to mysterious leaks or stubborn clogs, these problems are common in homes across Northwest Florida.

The good news? Many toilet issues can be resolved quickly if addressed early. At Benefield Plumbing, we’ve helped countless homeowners prevent small problems from turning into expensive repairs. In this guide, we’ll show you how to safely fix common toilet problems – or know when it’s time to call in the pros.

1. Fixing a Running Toilet

A running toilet is one of the most common plumbing complaints, especially in Florida homes with older toilets or hard water buildup. Not only is it annoying, but a constantly running toilet can waste hundreds of gallons of water each month, leading to a higher utility bill.

Common Causes:

• Worn or warped flapper valve

• Malfunctioning fill valve

• Float set too high, causing water to overflow into the tank’s overflow tube

• Leaks in the tank-to-bowl connection

Step-by-Step Fix:

1. Turn off the water supply behind the toilet.

2. Remove the tank lid and flush the toilet to drain most of the water.

3. Inspect the flapper valve. If it’s worn, cracked, or not sealing properly, replace it.

4. Adjust the float so the water stops at the correct fill line (usually marked inside the tank).

5. Test the fill valve; replace it if it’s faulty or worn out.

Florida Tip: Hard water in Bay & Walton Counties can cause mineral buildup on flappers and fill valves, reducing their lifespan. Regular inspection can prevent running toilets before they become a problem.

⚠️ If adjustments don’t solve the problem, you may have a more serious plumbing issue, such as a leak in the supply line or a crack in the tank, which requires a professional plumber.

2. Repairing Leaks

Leaks can appear in multiple areas of your toilet and can lead to water damage, mold, or even structural issues if left unchecked.

Common Leak Locations:

• Around the base of the toilet (often the wax ring)

• Under the tank or between the tank and bowl

• Supply line connections

Step-by-Step Fix:

1. Tighten connections gently; overtightening can crack porcelain or fittings.

2. Replace worn gaskets or seals in the tank.

3. If the leak is at the base, replace the wax ring.

💡 Florida Tip: Moisture and humidity in Panama City or Fort Walton can accelerate corrosion on metal parts. If you notice water pooling around the base, it’s better to call a licensed plumber to prevent damage to your subfloor.

3. Clearing Clogs Safely

Clogs are an inevitable part of toilet ownership. Causes range from excessive toilet paper, wipes, or even small toys accidentally flushed.

Safe DIY Methods:

• Plunger: Use a flange plunger for a proper seal, push firmly but carefully.

• Plumbing snake / hand auger: Reach deeper clogs without damaging the pipes.

What Not to Do:

• Avoid chemical drain cleaners – they rarely solve serious clogs and can damage pipes.

• Don’t use excessive force, which can crack porcelain or bend pipes.

When to Call a Pro:

• Multiple toilets backing up (may indicate a sewer line issue)

• Persistent clogs that resist plunging or snaking

• Gurgling noises in other drains during a flush

Bay County Scenario: Homes with older clay sewer pipes or large oak trees in the yard are prone to root intrusion, which DIY methods cannot safely remove.

4. Preventive Toilet Maintenance

Keeping your toilet in top condition reduces the risk of major problems:

• Only flush toilet paper – never wipes, feminine products, or other non-flushables.

• Inspect the flapper and fill valve annually.

• Check for slow leaks or unusual water bills.

• Consider a plumbing inspection if your home is over 15–20 years old.

Florida Tip: Hard water can cause buildup in the trap and tank. Installing a water softener or cleaning components regularly extends the life of your toilet.

Why Benefield Plumbing Is Your Trusted Choice

At Benefield Plumbing, we proudly serve homeowners and businesses throughout Bay County, Walton County, Washington County, Gulf County and Jackson County. When toilet troubles strike, we provide:

• Fast, reliable repairs for running toilets, leaks, and clogs

• Preventive maintenance and inspections

• Safe, licensed solutions that protect your home and plumbing system

• Honest pricing with no surprises

Call us today at (850) 271-3887 or schedule a service online by clicking here.

Quick Tips to Keep Toilets Healthy

• Inspect toilet parts every 6–12 months.
• Flush only what’s meant for toilets.
• Clean hard water deposits regularly.
• Schedule annual inspections with a licensed plumber.