The Most Common Reasons For Leaky Toilets
Got leaks when you flush the toilet? Is the water in the tank leaking out? Got unexplained puddles on your bathroom floor? Unfortunately, a damaged or worn-out toilet can leak for a variety of reasons.
But in this article, we’ll take a look at a few common reasons for water leaks, and explain why your toilet may be leaking water into your bathroom. Let’s get started now.
Your First Step – Stop Water Damage By Shutting Off The Water Supply Line!
If your toilet is leaking or overflowing, the first step you should take is to turn off the water. Anyone can do this – just look at the back of your toilet, and find the water line that is responsible for bringing water into the toilet tank.
Then, turn the water valve on this water line clockwise until it cannot turn anymore. Check out this guide for an illustration. This will turn off the water and stop more water from coming into the tank when you flush the toilet, stopping further leaks.
1. Cracks In The Toilet Bowl, Tank Or Base Of The Toilet
Toilets are very durable. But over time, cracks can develop in the porcelain and cause leaks. If you notice any hairline cracks on the bowl, base or tank of the toilet, this is likely the issue.
One common cause of this is tightening the bolts that hold the toilet lever excessively. Over-tightening can stress and crack the porcelain, causing a leak.
2. Looser Or Worn Out Toilet Seal/Wax Ring
Most toilets are sealed to the floor with a wax ring or rubber gasket. If this wears out or loosens, water may begin pooling on your floor. The best fix for this is to remove the toilet and replace the wax ring or rubber gasket. This may be more likely if you set the toilet on an uneven tile floor, as this can cause movement and loosening of the ring that prevents leaks.
3. Loose or Or Damaged Fill Valve
The fill valve is a water valve on the bottom of the tank, which is held in place with a large nut and rubber washer. This is what provides water to the toilet tank and allows your toilet to work. If it is loose or damaged, this may cause leaks. Usually, though, it can be tightened, repaired or replaced without having to remove the toilet.
4. Damaged Toilet Tank Seal
The toilet tank seal is located between the toilet tank and the lower toilet bowl. It’s a rubber gasket that is held in place with multiple bolts. When it’s compressed by the tension of the bolts, it creates a watertight seal.
But if it becomes damaged or loose, this seal may begin to leak. First, the seal should be tightened to see if this is enough to prevent the leak. If not, the rubber seal itself may be damaged and need to be replaced.
Toilet Replacement or Toilet Repairs?
Most of the time, it’s not necessary to replace a toilet that’s leaking. Repairing a toilet is always cheaper than removing it and replacing it – so if you have a leaky toilet and you’re not sure why, get in touch with All Plumbing Works now.
We specialise in toilet repairs and replacements in Sydney, as well as clearing blocked drains – and we can troubleshoot your toilet, get to the root of the issue, and restore your toilet, preventing further leaks and water damage. Contact us online now, or give us a call at 0435 723 389 for emergency leaking toilet repairs in Sydney.