A leaking toilet is an annoyance and a potential financial burden for homeowners. It can damage your bathroom’s flooring and drywall and be a waste of water. Fortunately, fixing a leaking toilet requires a few common household tools and some know-how. Our step-by-step guide will help you fix your leaking toilet and restore it to proper working condition.
Step 1: Find the Location of the Leak
The first step in repairing a toilet is determining where the leak originated. In most circumstances, the leak will come from the toilet tank or the toilet’s base. Examine the toilet attentively for traces of water around the base or tank to pinpoint the source of the leak.
Step 2: Tighten Any Loose Connections
After determining the leak’s source, you should tighten any loose connections. Tightening the bolts that secure the tank to the bowl or the nuts that link the water supply line to the fill valve may be required. Tighten any loose connections with a wrench, but be careful not to overtighten as this might cause harm to the toilet.
Step 3: Change the Flapper
The flapper should be checked if tightening the connections does not resolve the problem. The rubber flapper controls how much water the tank releases into the bowl. If the flapper is worn or broken, water may escape from the tank into the bowl. Before removing the old flapper, ensure the toilet’s water supply is shut off, and the tank is empty. Install the new flapper following the manufacturer’s directions, reconnect the water supply, and test the toilet to check the leak has been repaired.
Step 4: Replace the Fill Valve
If replacing the flapper does not cure the problem, the fill valve could be the source of the problem. The fill valve is in charge of replenishing the toilet tank after each flush. A defective fill valve might overfill the tank, pouring water into the bowl. To replace the fill valve in a toilet, first, turn off the water supply, then drain the tank. Install the new fill valve per the manufacturer’s directions, reconnect the water supply, and test the toilet to check the leak has been repaired.
Step 5: Speak with a Professional
If you’ve tried everything above and your toilet still leaks, it’s time to call a professional plumber. A plumber can evaluate your toilet and determine if any underlying issues are causing the leak. They can also advise on the best line of action to repair the leak and avoid future problems.
Wrap Up
Repairing a leaking toilet can be a simple process if done correctly. You can remedy the problem and prevent further damage to your bathroom by following the steps above. If you’re hesitant or uncomfortable conducting the repairs yourself, it is always advisable to contact a professional plumber.
At New Flow Plumbing, we are dedicated to providing our customers with high-quality plumbing services at an affordable price. Our skilled plumbers have the knowledge and expertise to handle any plumbing issue, including leaking toilets. Call us today to set up a service appointment, and let’s handle your plumbing problems.
