How To Replace a Leaky Toilet

2/14/2020 (Permalink)

Leaking toilet in Tavernier, FL

Few items in your home will get as much use as a toilet. This essential piece of your house can be reliable and effective for decades, as long as you properly maintain and take care of it. This doesn't mean you won't encounter issues such as leaks. This common problem can lead to significant damage. Luckily, it doesn't take a professional to diagnose or fix a leaking toilet.

Typical Causes

It's probably difficult to imagine life in Tavernier, FL, without indoor plumbing. The convenience of having a working toilet brings peace of mind and comfort. If you detect a leaking toilet, it's helpful to know why this is happening. Common causes include:

• A worn or failed seal under the toilet
  
• A broken water tank
  
• A worn-out flapper
  
• Rusted pipes
  
  

Take out the Toilet

Toilet repair often requires you to remove it in order to reach the source of the leak. To do this, shut off the water by turn the valve behind the toilet. Take off the lid to the tank and then flush the toilet, allowing as much water to down from the tank as possible. Disconnect the water line tubes, remove the bolts and then grab the rim of the toilet bowl. After gently rocking the toilet back and forth, breaking the seal. Then, lift the toilet and move it out of the way.

Get a New Seal

In an old toilet, a cracked seal often causes leaks. Once you remove the toilet, look for water pooling around where the base was. You may see water dripping from the water lines too. Once you put on a new seal, you can put the toilet back on or purchase another one and replace it. You should also consider buying new supply tubes if you've got a leaking toilet.
If you don't quickly address water damage from a leaking toilet, you could have a big flood on your hands. If this happens, a certified flood removal team can help.