What Causes a Leaking Toilet?
No homeowner wants to deal with a plumbing issue, but what if it’s something that’s preventing you from your daily comforts? Whether you think about it or not, your toilet is one of the most used fixtures in your home. It’s also one of the more susceptible to plumbing issues like toilet clogs and water leaks.
A leaking toilet can be a nuisance, particularly when it leads to higher water bills. Do you ever hear your toilet running in the middle of the night? Chances are you have a minor leak, which needs to be repaired before it progresses into an emergency. So how do you even start?
If you’re unsure as to what causes toilet leaks and what you can do about them, you’ve come to the right place! Read on to learn a little bit more about your toilet, and get a reliable solution that’ll get your home back up and running in no time.
What Does a Toilet Flapper Have to do With It?
If you’ve never looked inside the tank behind your toilet, now’s a good time to start. The tank holds the entire flushing mechanism, including the very important toilet flapper. The flapper is essentially what controls the flow of water to and from your toilet.
It’s also one of the more common parts to lead to a toilet leak. When you flush the toilet, the flapper opens, draining the water from the tank into the toilet bowl – creating the entire flushing process.
When the water is completely emptied, it seals once again, allowing the tank to refill. This is where the problem often occurs. If that flapper is damaged in any way, it won’t create an airtight seal. This problem is what leads to leaks. Common causes include:
- Damaged or cracked plastic
- Worn seal
- Grime buildup
- Warped design
- Damaged inlet pipe
Luckily, the toilet flapper is a common cause for concern, which is why it’s widely available at hardware stores for the DIY savvy homeowner. It’s also a common part that professional plumbers stock, so you won’t have to wait for a repair.
Why Else Could Your Toilet be Running?
Other common causes of leaks include damaged toilets, worn seals at the base of the toilet, corroded water supply lines, and a poorly installed float.
In some situations, you’ll be able to easily diagnose a toilet leak based on water puddles, but when the problem is smaller and only showing up on paper, you’re going to need professional help.
An experienced plumber will be able to inspect your toilet and find the problem. Whether it’s a simple valve replacement or a complete toilet overhaul, you’ll have peace of mind that it’s fixed for the long-term.
Toilet Maintenance is The Way to Go
With years of experience, fully stocked trucks, and experienced staff, we make quick work of your toilet issues, so you can go back to enjoying your home.
