A leaky toilet is a common problem faced by many households. It is not only annoying, but it can also lead to a higher water bill. A leaky toilet can also cause damage to the floor, walls, and other fixtures in the bathroom. To prevent further damage and save money, it is important to find the source of the leak and promptly fix it. In this blog, we will discuss what a leaky toilet is, identify the sources of the leak, and discuss how to resolve common causes of a leaky toilet.

Causes of a leaky toilet

The source of a leaky toilet can be difficult to identify. It might be caused by many factors, such as:

• a faulty flapper,
• a faulty fill valve,
• or a worn-out wax ring.

Other potential causes include:

• a clogged toilet,
• a broken flush handle,
• or a faulty flush valve.

Each of these causes requires a different approach to fixing the leak. Before attempting to fix the leak, it is important to identify the source.

To identify the source, first, check for visible signs of water on the floor or around the base of the toilet. Listen for the sound of running water and check for water around the base of the toilet. If the toilet is leaking from the tank, check for water dripping from the flush handle or from the flush valve. If the toilet is leaking from the bowl, check for water near the base of the bowl and for water dripping from the wax ring.

Replacing a faulty flapper

A faulty flapper is usually caused by wear and tear, debris, or a damaged chain. If the source of the leak is a faulty flapper, it will need to be replaced.

Materials and tools Needed to Replace a Wax Ring:

Replacement Wax Ring

• Adjustable Wrenches
• Mini Hacksaw

Materials

• Bucket/Sponge
• Replacement Toilet Mounting Bolts
• Replacement Water Supply Line
• Floor Covering
• LiquiLock

To do this:

• First, close  the water supply to the toilet.
• After that, flush the toilet to empty the tank.
• Disconnect the chain from the flush handle
• and then unscrew the bolts that hold the tank to the bowl.
• Lift the tank off the bowl and then remove the flapper from the tank.
• Install the new flapper and then put the tank back in place.
• Reattach the chain to the flush handle and turn the water supply back on.

Checking the fill valve

If the source of the leak is a faulty fill valve, it will need to be replaced.

Tools:

• Bucket,
• crescent wrenches
• and rags.

Materials:

• Toilet fill valve

 To do this:

• Close the water supply to the toilet.
• Drain the toilet tank.
• Flush the toilet so as to empty the tank, and then disconnect the supply line from the fill valve.
• Unscrew the bolts that hold the fill valve in place and then remove the fill valve.
• Install the new fill valve and then turn the water supply back on.

Replacing a worn-out wax ring

A worn-out wax ring is caused by age or improper installation. If the source of the leak is a worn-out wax ring, it will need to be replaced.

Tools:

• Sponge
• Putty knife
• Wet/dry vacuum
• Flathead screwdriver
• Old towels
• Bucket
• Adjustable wrench
• Pliers

Materials:

• New toilet wax ring
• Paper towels
• Two flange bolts (two washers/two nuts)

To do this:

• Drain Your Toilet Bowl
• Disconnect the Water Supply Line
• Prepare the Base for Removal
• Pull the Toilet off the Floor
• Inspect the Flange
• Replace the Flange Bolts
• Put in the New Wax Ring
• Put the toilet back in place and then turn the water supply back on.

Conclusion

If none of the above causes are the source of the leak, it is important to troubleshoot other potential causes of the leak. This may include checking the flush valve, the flush handle, or the supply line for signs of wear and tear or damage. If the toilet is clogged, it is important to unclog it, as a clog can cause a leak. It is also important to check the water pressure, as the high water pressure can cause a leak.