Three Common Places for Toilet Leaks

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

Three Common Places for Toilet Leaks

Toilets are highly reliable household appliances that could last up to 40 years. It is no wonder that toilet parts can become worn and develop leaks. In most instances, a leaking toilet can be fixed by simply replacing a few parts. Where you find the leak will help you determine what parts need replacing. Here are three common places homeowners in Athens, GA find toilet leaks:

Leaking From the Base
If the toilet is leaking from the base, it could signal:

• A broken wax seal
• Loose closet bolts
• Cracks on the toilet bowl

The wax seal keeps water from seeping out of the pipes when you flush. This can be replaced with a few tools. Likewise, loosened closest bolts can be tightened easily with a wrench. If it is small enough, a crack on the toilet bowl can be fixed with a porcelain sealant.

Leaking From the Shut-off Valve
A leaking shut-off valve can cause water to puddle around the base of the toilet if the packing nut has become loosened. To fix this, simply find the packing nut under the handle and tighten it with a wrench. If this does not stop the leaking, the shut-off valve must be replaced.

Running Inside of the Tank
A toilet that continues to run after it has finished filling the toilet bowl indicates a misadjusted float, a tangled chain, or a broken flapper. If you are experiencing this with your toilet, first check that the float is not adjusted too high. If you find that the float is set up properly, check that the chain is untangled and allowing the flapper to close. If water continues to run after readjusting the float and the chain, you should replace the flapper entirely.
Water damage caused by a bathroom or toilet leak is an attraction for mold and can ruin your flooring. If you have water damages in your home due to a bathroom leak, contact a water damage cleaning and restoration service to repair it.