Three Places to Look When Your Toilet is Leaking

7/22/2021 (Permalink)

Why is My Toilet Leaking?

Of the many machines that can be found in your Charlotte, NC home, a toilet ranks high on the list of reliable appliances. While a toilet can withstand many years with minimal serious maintenance, it is not uncommon for toilet parts to become worn and develop leaks after a long time. 

Most of the time, replacement parts or jiggling things back into place that may have been dislodged will do the trick. It is where the leak is coming from that determines what kinds of parts need tending to. Here are three common places that homeowners in Charlotte, NC should look for toilet leaks:

Leaking From the Base

If a toilet is leaking from its base, it could mean that there is a broken wax seal, loose closet bolts or cracks on the toilet bowl.

The wax seal is responsible for keeping water from seeping out of the pipes when you flush the toilet. A few easy tools can be used to replace this. Similarly, you can tighten closet bolts that have gradually loosened with just a wrench. Lastly, if a crack on the toilet bowl is small enough, it can simply be fixed with a porcelain sealant.

Leaking From the Shut-Off Valve

A leaking shut-off valve can  result in a puddle of toilet water accumulating around the base if the packing nut has become loose. The fix is easy - just locate the packing nut under the handle and tighten it with a wrench. Worst case scenario is the shut-off valve needing to be replaced if tightening with a wrench does not stop the leak.

Running Inside of the Tank

A toilet that does not stop running after it has finished filling up the toilet bowl is a sign that there is a misadjusted float, a tangled chain or a broken flapper. If this is your situation, first check that the float is not adjusted too high. If your toilet is set up correctly, then check that the chain is untangled and allow the flapper to close. If water continues to run after checking on the float and the chain, it is time to fully replace the flapper.

While toilet leaks can be minor, it is in your best interest to contact SERVPRO of South Mecklenburg County. Water damage from a leak in the bathroom can cause avoidable mold which can then ruin your floor. If you have damage to your Charlotte, NC home, contact us at (704)-840-6112.

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