Why Is My Toilet Leaking, and How Do I Fix It?

1/2/2022 (Permalink)

What Is The Cause Of My Toilet Leak, And How Do I Fix It?

If you have a leaking toilet in your Costa Mesa, CA, home, you need stop it as soon as possible. A constant bathroom leak could weaken the house's structure and cause further damage from mold. If this is the case, you may want to call a professional water remediation company. But if caught quickly, you can easily prevent more damage from occurring with the following steps.

1. Turn off the Water Supply

First, turn off the shutoff valve. Check to see if the problem is coming from a leaking supply line. If so, try replacing the hose. If not, undo the supply line. If the leakage is coming from the bottom of the toilet, drain it and proceed to the next step.

2. Take the Toilet Out

First, check the bolts around the bottom of the leaking toilet to see that they are tight. By simply tightening them, you may get the leak to stop. If this doesn't work, you should remove the toilet. Loosen and remove the bolts, then gently rock the toilet until it comes loose. Holding onto the bowl, lift the toilet and put it aside onto some cardboard or old newspaper.

3. Change the Wax Ring

Scrape away the wax ring, taking care to inspect the flange for breakage or cracks. If necessary, replace the flange. Then set down the new ring, making sure to center it properly.

4. Put the Toilet Back in Place

Place the toilet above the bolts and lower it into position, making sure that a complete seal is formed with the new wax ring. Securely but gently tighten the bolts, and then put the caps back on.

5. Turn the Water Back On

Reconnect the supply line and turn on the water valve. Flush the toilet, checking to make sure there are no leaks coming from around the bottom of the toilet or the supply line.

A leaking toilet, if not repaired quickly, can cause all sorts of problems beyond the immediate mess. By following the steps outlined above, you can stop the leak and avoid more costly repairs to your home.