Here are the top causes of a toilet leaking and how to fix them. We will be discussing flanges and floats as well as flaps inlethoses and other ways to keep your toilet leaking-free.
How To Repair A Leaky Toilet Tank
We have arranged the following list of reasons your toilet could leak, from simple to complicated. You won’t have to read much before you solve your problem.
Find The Cause Of The Leak
You should first determine the source of the leak.
- If you notice that the tank’s exterior is damp and water is on the floor, but the toilet is not running, it is likely that the tank is just sweating.
- The toilet should only run for a few seconds each time it shuts off. The flapper is likely to be at the bottom.
- If the toilet does not stop running after filling the tank and water is pouring down the drain, it could be a worn shut off switch.
- The shut-off valve, or inlet hose, can fail if there is water at the valve that rises from the floor to supply water to the toilet.
- You may notice water stains on the ceiling or a puddle at the toilet base.
- It is likely that the tank has cracked if water seeps from it.
Sweating
Summer sweating is quite common. The air becomes more moist as it warms, and the cold water in your bathroom makes it the ideal surface for water to condense. If you frequent the toilet, you may find that there is a lot of water around it on humid days.
- It is normal for water to collect on the tank during summer. However, if there is damage, you have options.
- A condensation tray can be used to collect the water that drips from your tank. To place the tray, you’ll need enough space around the toilet. You’ll also need to clean it frequently. However, a condensation tray is an easy way to stop swearing from the toilet.
Worn Flap
Flat water slowly leaks out of tanks when there is a war. The mechanism will refill the tank by triggering the sinking of the float as the water level drops. The tank will fill faster if the condition of the flap gets worse.
- It is easy to change the flap. Usually, you will only need to fasten two metal or plastic clips. A chain will be needed to attach to the flushing lever. Adjust it until the flap is raised enough to flush the toilet. You can adjust it by changing the chain link that is attached to the metal clip.
Modern flaps are similar to the one shown here, but it is possible to find an older model that requires more work to replace.
Sticky Or Improperly Set Floater Switch
A new fill valve is required if the floater does not stop the switch from being turned on when the tank has filled up. The fill valve, which is the heart of the toilet, controls the water level and the water flow. Many kits include both the fill valve and the flap. You don’t need a pink change if the flap is in good condition.
- You will need to empty the tank to change the fill valve. Turn off the water supply to it at the floor near the toilet, and flush the tank.
- Remove the water hose from the shutoff valve that connects to it.
- Remove the plastic nut holding the fill tube at the tanks outside base.
- Reverse the process to insert the new component. Place the valve into the toilet. Next, attach the water line to the shut-off valve.
- It is possible for the fill valve to come loose from the toilet’s bottom if it does not have a tight seal.
- Adjust the tank and water level by turning the still bells. There may also be other adjustments that need to be made.
- Water-saving fill valves might have additional chains that can be connected to a flush lever.
Shut-off Valve & Inlet Hose
A pipe will rise from the floor and stop at a valve. This valve can be used to turn off the water supply to the toilet. This valve is also the shut-off valve. The hose that connects to the toilet is called the inlet. Because it is more common to find a leaky inlet pipe, the valve tends to crimp over time from changing refill valves. This causes the hose’s wear to be rapid in that area and can lead to leaks. Although it is less common to find a leaky shutoff valve, the internal threads can wear out and become difficult to turn.
- You will need to turn off the water supply at the shutoff valve in order to replace the inlethose. To remove the toilet’s plastic bolt, empty it and then use the appropriate-sized wrench to unscrew the hose. Reverse the steps to install the new hose.
- You will need to turn off the main water supply in order to replace the shutoff valve. Also, remove the inlet liner. You will then need to use a large wrench and grab the valve. Then, twist it off and replace it. You are now ready to replace the inlet hose.
Toilet Flange
Water coming from the underside or inside of the toilet is most likely due to a problem in the toilet flange. This will need to be replaced with the wax ring that seals it to the floor. This is not an easy project that everyone can do.
- To replace the wax rings, remove the toilet from the ground and access the wax ring beneath. Before you can reinstall the toilet, you will need to remove the wax ring.
This is a simple, but not difficult job. The toilets’ weight will do most of the work, including the seating of the wax ring correctly to form a tight seal. You will need to handle some waste materials, as some toilets can be quite heavy. If you don’t address this issue immediately, your floor will be damaged and will need more expensive repairs.
- Tip: Do not pour hot water into the toilet, as it could melt the wax ring.
Cracked Body
You most likely have cracked bodies if water is gushing from the tank. A cracked tank can’t be fixed. You will need to replace the whole toilet. Although you might be able temporarily to fix it with silicone sealant, it is not recommended to leave it alone as too much water can cause serious damage. You might be surprised at how a new toilet can reduce your monthly water bill and save water, even if you have just purchased it. Modern toilets have stronger flushes and are easier to maintain.
