5 Reasons Why Your Toilet Leaks and How to Fix Them

Toilets are a key part of any home, and a vital part of our daily lives, so it is natural that toilet leaks can be very frustrating. In addition, a leaking toilet wastes water, which costs you money on your utility bills, and also puts your toilet and bathroom at risk of water damage. However, being equipped with the knowledge of the five most common reasons a toilet leaks, and how to resolve the problem, can save you time, money, and a lot of stress.

Toilet Parts and How It Works

A toilet is a crucial fixture in any bathroom, and understanding its toilet and functionality can help in maintaining it properly. Here are the toilet parts of a typical toilet and how they work together:

1. Tank: The tank is the upper part of the toilet that holds water used for flushing. When you flush the toilet, water from the tank is released to clean the bowl.

2. Bowl: The bowl is the part of the toilet that holds water and waste before it is flushed away. It is designed to ensure efficient disposal with minimal water usage.

3. Flush Mechanism: This includes the handle, flush lever, and flapper. When the handle is pressed, the lever lifts the flapper at the bottom of the tank, allowing water to flow from the tank into the bowl.

4. Fill Valve: After flushing, the fill valve is responsible for refilling the tank with water. It is connected to the water supply line and has a float that rises with the water level, shutting off when it reaches the set height.

5. Trapway: This is the s-shaped channel behind the bowl that carries waste from the bowl to the sewer system. Its shape prevents sewer gasses from coming into the home.

6. Wax Seal and Flange: The wax seal, situated between the toilet and the floor, ensures a watertight connection, preventing leaks. The flange secures the toilet to the floor and connects it to the drainpipe.

Understanding these components helps in troubleshooting common toilet issues like leaks, constant running, and improper flushing.

1. Faulty Flapper

Understanding the Problem

The flapper is the rubber valve inside of the bottom of the tank. When you flush, the flapper lifts itself and water rushes from the tank into the toilet. The flapper can grow warped, cracked or worn, and stop sealing. Water leaks continually from the tank into the bowl.

Identifying the Issue

You can identify a faulty flapper by listening for a continuous running sound or by adding a few drops of food coloring to the tank water. If the color appears in the bowl without flushing, you have a leaking flapper.

Fixing the Flapper

1. Turn off the water supply: Locate the shut-off valve behind the toilet and turn it clockwise to stop the flow of water.

2. Drain the tank: Flush the toilet to empty the tank.

3. Remove the old flapper: Disconnect the flapper from the flush valve and remove it from the chain.

4. Install a new flapper: Purchase a replacement flapper that matches your toilet model. Attach it to the flush valve and connect the chain.

5. Turn on the water supply: Open the shut-off valve and let the tank refill. Test the toilet by flushing to ensure the leak is fixed.

2. Worn Out Wax Ring

Understanding the Problem

In the area between the bottom of the toilet and the hole in the floor for the drain pipe, there is the wax ring that keeps water and sewer gasses from escaping, but which can over time wear down or get smushed.

Identifying the Issue

If you notice water pooling around the base of the toilet or a persistent musty smell, the wax ring is likely the culprit. Additionally, the toilet may rock or feel unstable if the wax ring is compromised.

Fixing the Wax Ring

1. Turn off the water supply: Shut off the water and flush the toilet to empty the tank.

2. Disconnect the water line: Use a wrench to disconnect the water supply line from the toilet.

3. Remove the toilet: Unscrew the bolts securing the toilet to the floor and carefully lift it off the flange.

4. Replace the wax ring: Remove the old wax ring and clean the area. Place a new wax ring on the flange.

5. Reinstall the toilet: Carefully lower the toilet onto the new wax ring, ensuring it is properly aligned. Tighten the bolts and reconnect the water supply line.

6. Turn on the water supply: Open the shut-off valve and let the tank refill. Test for leaks by flushing the toilet and checking around the base.

3. Cracked Toilet Tank

Understanding the Problem

A cracked toilet tank can result from design flaws, manufacturing defects, accidental impact, or prolonged use. Even a small crack can cause significant water leakage, leading to water damage and increased water bills.

Identifying the Issue

Visible cracks in the tank or water pooling around the toilet base can indicate a cracked tank. You might also hear water dripping or notice a drop in the water level in the tank.

Fixing the Cracked Tank

1. Turn off the water supply: Shut off the water and flush the toilet to empty the tank.

2. Dry the tank: Use a towel to dry the inside and outside of the tank completely.

3. Apply a waterproof epoxy: Use a waterproof epoxy specifically designed for porcelain or ceramic repairs. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to apply the epoxy to the crack.

4. Allow the epoxy to cure: Let the epoxy cure for the recommended time, usually 24 hours.

5. Turn on the water supply: Open the shut-off valve and let the tank refill. Monitor the tank for any signs of continued leakage.

If the crack is extensive or the epoxy repair is unsuccessful, consider replacing the toilet tank or the entire toilet.

4. Loose or Damaged Tank Bolts

Understanding the Problem

The tank bolts secure the toilet tank to the bowl. Over time, these bolts can become loose or corroded, leading to water leakage between the tank and bowl.

Identifying the Issue

Water leaking from the area where the tank meets the bowl or visible rust around the bolts can indicate loose or damaged tank bolts. You may also notice the tank wobbling or shifting when you touch it.

Fixing the Tank Bolts

1. Turn off the water supply: Shut off the water and flush the toilet to empty the tank.

2. Dry the area: Use a towel to dry the area around the bolts.

3. Tighten the bolts: Use a wrench to tighten the bolts securing the tank to the bowl. Be careful not to overtighten, as this can crack the tank or bowl.

4. Replace damaged bolts: If the bolts are corroded or damaged, replace them with new ones. Remove the old bolts, washers, and nuts, and install the new hardware.

5. Turn on the water supply: Open the shut-off valve and let the tank refill. Check for leaks by flushing the toilet and inspecting the area around the bolts.

5. Malfunctioning Fill Valve

Understanding the Problem

The fill valve controls the flow of water into the toilet tank. A malfunctioning fill valve can cause the tank to overfill, leading to water leakage from the overflow tube or around the base of the tank.

Identifying the Issue

Continuous running water, hissing sounds, or water leaking from the overflow tube can indicate a malfunctioning fill valve. You may also notice the water level in the tank rising above the overflow tube.

Fixing the Fill Valve

1. Turn off the water supply: Shut off the water and flush the toilet to empty the tank.

2. Remove the old fill valve: Disconnect the water supply line and remove the old fill valve from the tank.

3. Install a new fill valve: Purchase a replacement fill valve compatible with your toilet model. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to install the new valve.

4. Adjust the water level: Adjust the float or the fill valve to set the correct water level in the tank. The water level should be about an inch below the top of the overflow tube.

5. Turn on the water supply: Open the shut-off valve and let the tank refill. Test the new fill valve by flushing the toilet and ensuring the water level is correctly maintained.

Preventive Maintenance Tips

To avoid future leaks and keep your toilet functioning properly, follow these preventive maintenance tips:

1. Regularly inspect components: Periodically check the flapper, fill valve, and tank bolts for signs of wear or damage.

2. Clean the tank and bowl: Regularly clean the inside of the tank and bowl to prevent buildup of debris and mineral deposits.

3. Check the water pressure: Ensure your home's water pressure is within the recommended range (40-60 psi) to prevent damage to toilet components.

4. Replace aging parts: Proactively replace parts like the flapper, fill valve, and wax ring every few years to prevent leaks.

5. Avoid using chemical cleaners: Harsh chemical cleaners can damage toilet components. Use mild, non-abrasive cleaners instead.

Conclusion

A leaking toilet is not only a nuisance but can also lead to significant water waste and potential damage to your home. By understanding the common causes of toilet leaks and following the detailed repair instructions provided in this blog, you can confidently tackle most toilet leaks on your own. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to any signs of leakage will help keep your toilet in good working condition and prevent costly repairs in the future. Remember, if you encounter a complex issue or are unsure about a repair, it's always best to consult a professional plumber.