How to fix a leaking toilet: Easy tips to stop the leak

Need to know how to fix a leaking toilet quickly? A leaking toilet can not only be super annoying but if left too long, can mean you wind up wasting a lot of our precious Australian water! If you’re tired of hearing that constant dripping or running sound, and you want to stop wasting water (and money), you’re in the right place.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to fix a leaking toilet using five easy tips. By following these steps, you can resolve common toilet leaks and flush again with confidence!

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Why is my toilet leaking?

A leaky toilet can result from several common issues. The most frequent cause is a worn-out wax ring or seal at the base, allowing water to escape when the toilet is flushed. Leaks can also occur if the toilet bolts are loose, causing the toilet to wobble and break the seal.

Additionally, a faulty flapper in the cistern can lead to constant water running, or a cracked toilet tank or bowl may allow water to leak externally. Identifying the source of the leak is key to preventing water waste and potential damage to your bathroom floor.

A leaking toilet often points to another simple issue — the washer in the cistern is worn out and needs to be replaced. The washer plays a crucial role in preventing leaks by ensuring that water stays inside the cistern until you flush. When the washer wears out, water can leak both during and between flushes, leading to higher water usage and increased water bills.

To fix the issue, you’ll need to locate the inlet and outlet valves in the cistern. The inlet valve is responsible for stopping the toilet from running when it’s not in use. Replacing the washer and tightening the relevant parts can often fix the problem.

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How to fix a leaking toilet cistern: 5 handy tips

1. Check the toilet flapper

One of the most common causes of a leaking toilet is a faulty flapper. The flapper is the rubber valve that lets water in and out of the cistern. If the flapper is stuck open or the chain is caught, water will continue to flow, causing a leak. Adjusting or replacing the flapper can often fix the problem.

2. Ensure there’s enough water in the cistern

Low water levels in the cistern can also cause a leak. Check the water level to make sure it’s high enough for the toilet to function properly. If necessary, adjust the water line to ensure the right amount of water is in the cistern.

3. Check for drain blockages

A blocked drain can sometimes result in a leaking toilet. If you suspect a blockage, inspect the drain or call in a plumber. A clogged toilet could cause larger issues down the line, so it’s best to address any blockages quickly.

4. Inspect the float valve in the cistern

The float valve in the cistern regulates water flow and ensures that it stops running once the cistern is full. If the valve is faulty, the water will keep running, leading to a leak. A quick inspection can help you determine whether the float valve needs to be adjusted or replaced.

5. Check the seals for wear and tear

Worn seals in the toilet cistern or the pipes can cause leaks. Over time, seals may deteriorate, especially in older toilets. Check the seals for any cracks or damage, and replace them if necessary. This is a straightforward fix that can be done either by yourself or by a plumber.

If you’ve tried these tips and your toilet is still leaking, or if you’re not confident in your plumbing skills, it’s time to call a professional plumber. Every toilet is different, and leaks can sometimes indicate bigger problems that require expert attention.

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Why is my toilet leaking from the bottom when I flush?

If your toilet is leaking from the bottom when you flush, it’s likely due to an issue with the wax ring seal or other components connecting the toilet to the drain. Here are some common causes:

Damaged or worn-out wax ring

The wax ring at the base of the toilet creates a watertight seal between the toilet and the drainpipe. Over time, this ring can degrade, become damaged, or shift out of place, allowing water to escape from the bottom of the toilet when you flush.

Loose toilet bolts

If the bolts that secure the toilet to the floor are loose, the toilet can rock or shift, breaking the seal between the toilet and the drainpipe. This can result in leaks at the base. Tightening the bolts can sometimes resolve the issue, but if the seal has already been compromised, replacing the wax ring may be necessary.

Cracked toilet base

A crack in the porcelain base of the toilet can allow water to leak out when flushing. Inspect the toilet base for any visible cracks. If you notice any, the toilet may need to be replaced.

Faulty flange

The flange is the pipe fitting that connects the toilet to the drainpipe. If the flange is broken, misaligned, or sits too low, it can cause leaks at the base. In this case, the flange may need to be repaired or replaced.

Condensation on the tank

Sometimes, condensation from the toilet tank can drip down to the floor, making it seem like the toilet is leaking from the base. However, if the leak only happens when you flush, this is less likely to be the cause.

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How to fix a leaking toilet seal

Fixing a leaking toilet seal is a relatively straightforward process, but it requires some basic tools and a bit of effort. The most common toilet seal that leaks is the wax ring located between the base of the toilet and the flange on the floor. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to fix a leaking toilet seal.

Tools and materials:

• Adjustable wrench
• Putty knife or scraper
• New wax ring (or a rubber ring alternative)
• Sponge or towels (to remove remaining water)
• Rubber gloves (optional)
• Bucket
• Toilet bolts and caps (if needed)

1. Turn off the water supply

First, locate the water supply valve behind the toilet and turn it off by rotating it clockwise. Then, flush the toilet to drain as much water as possible from the tank and bowl. Use a sponge or towels to soak up any remaining water.

2. Disconnect the water line

Using an adjustable wrench, disconnect the water supply line from the base of the toilet tank. Place a bucket underneath to catch any residual water that may drip out.

3. Remove the toilet

Unscrew the nuts from the bolts that hold the toilet to the floor. These bolts are usually located under the caps at the base of the toilet. Once the bolts are removed, carefully lift the toilet straight up and off the flange. Be cautious, as toilets can be heavy. You may need help lifting it.

4. Remove the old wax ring

Once the toilet is removed, you’ll see the old wax ring sitting on the flange (the pipe fitting in the floor). Use a putty knife or scraper to remove the old wax ring entirely from both the flange and the base of the toilet. Make sure no residue is left behind, as a clean surface is needed for the new seal.

5. Install the new wax ring

Place the new wax ring (or rubber ring if using an alternative) onto the flange or the base of the toilet. Ensure it is centered and properly aligned to create a tight seal when you reinstall the toilet.

6. Reinstall the toilet

Carefully lower the toilet back onto the flange, making sure to line up the toilet’s bolt holes with the floor bolts. Press down firmly to compress the wax ring and create a watertight seal. Be sure not to rock the toilet, as this can distort the wax ring.

7. Secure the toilet

Once the toilet is in place, reinstall the nuts on the toilet bolts and tighten them evenly on both sides. Be careful not to overtighten, as this could crack the porcelain base of the toilet.

8. Reconnect the water supply

Reconnect the water supply line to the toilet and turn the water supply valve back on. Allow the tank to fill, and flush the toilet to check for any leaks.

9. Check for leaks

After reinstalling the toilet, check around the base of the toilet for any signs of leaking. If there’s no water seeping out, you’ve successfully fixed the toilet seal!

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Get quotes from a professional plumber

If you’re not confident fixing a leaky toilet yourself and prefer professional help, consider contacting a qualified plumber for assistance. When contacting plumbers for a quote, provide details about your toilet issue, such as the type of leak (e.g., from the base or cistern) and any troubleshooting steps you’ve already taken.

Ask for a rough estimate of the cost to repair it, along with any call-out fees or additional charges. With Yellow Pages you can get multiple free quotes to compare prices and choose the best plumber for your needs.

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