Common Sources of a Leaky Toilet
Leaky toilets can be irritating since there are many different reasons they could be leaking.
Leaky toilets can be irritating since there are many different reasons they could be leaking. If a commode in the home leaks, repairs must be made to avoid an increase in the water bill and potential damage to the subfloor in the bathroom. Plumbers routinely repair toilets as they don’t want their clients to throw money down the drain. Generally, toilet repairs are uncomplicated and inexpensive.
This blog covers several of the most common sources of toilet leaks.
Aged washers or bolts
The washers and bolts on a toilet can age and will be the factor for a leaky toilet. A toilet has two bolts that affix the tank to the bowl. If old age triggers these bolts to fail, the toilet will leak water onto the floor from the bottom of the tank.
Tank-to-bowl gasket
The three-inch tank-to-bowl gasket works in conjunction with the bolts to complete the seal between the toilet tank and bowl. Unfortunately, this gasket, made of rubber, can deteriorate from age and chemicals. When it’s compromised, water may leak onto the floor.
General deterioration
Deterioration is the leading risk for toilet leaks and is the most destructive trouble to impact plumbing components and water pipes. Pipe corrosion will undoubtedly result in water pollutants, water pipes aging, chemical reactions, or a combination of all three.
Rusty pipes
Rust results from the deterioration procedure just discussed. Regarding the toilet itself, it will impact the metallic pieces in it. Considering that the inner components of the toilet are continuously in water, the growth of rust is something that will not quit.
Cracked tank
A cracked toilet tank is not typical, yet the toilet tank itself can develop a fracture. Even a hairline crack can result in a leak. Because toilets are generally constructed from porcelain, they are breakable. A cracked tank typically results in a toilet replacement.
Cracked bowl
Like the toilet tank, the bowl can develop a crack for the same reasons. Again, there will be no option but to replace the toilet. Leaks like this can lead to significant water damage if not resolved quickly.
Float and flapper
The float is the large plastic sphere connected to a rod that floats within the tank. The float and the flapper are two components that will most likely have to be replaced at some point in the life of a toilet. If either is not functioning correctly, they leak water into the bowl. Since the toilet constantly runs when this happens, it is a waste of water. Although unlikely, leaks of this nature can result in a bowl overflowing.
Feed line
The feed line is the water supply line connected to the toilet from the home’s plumbing system. It is easy to discover if this line leaks. They gradually wear or loosen up, so it’s worth checking that it is tightly connected. If there is still a leak after tightening the connection with a wrench, the line may need to be replaced, which is a simple fix.
Overflow tube
The overflow tube’s function is to move water if the tank overflows. If this tube is clogged, water will spill onto the floor instead.
These troubleshooting suggestions for homeowners are designed to give them an advantage in case of a toilet leak. However, if a homeowner cannot resolve the leak themselves, they should contact a plumber sooner rather than later. Plumbing leaks left unresolved can create serious concerns.
Simba Plumbing offers residential and commercial plumbing services to Phoenix and surrounding areas. We are family-owned, meticulous and provide affordable, transparent pricing. Call us at 602-962-3537.
