Common Sources of Toilet Leaks and How Herbein Plumbing Will Fix Them

A leaky toilet can seem like a minor inconvenience, but it can lead to significant problems if left unchecked. If you’re experiencing a leaky toilet, it’s important to address the issue promptly to prevent further damage and higher water bills.

What are Common Ways a Toilet Can Leak?

A toilet has a big job. It must allow water to flow into its tank, hang out there for a while, and then flow into and out of the bowl when flushed. The water’s journey is riddled with opportunities for it to flow where it shouldn’t in the form of leaks. Let’s look at possible sources for your toilet’s leak:

1. Parts in the tank.Everyone knows the familiar sound of a toilet that won’t stop running. A jiggle of the handle often fixes it, which is fine temporarily. The culprit could be a worn-out or misaligned flapper valve, a chain that is too short or too long, or a faulty fill valve. 
2. Leaky tank. If water is leaking from the tank into the bowl, it could be caused by a crack in the porcelain tank or a worn or damaged gasket between the tank and the bowl.
3. Leaky base. If you notice water at the base of your toilet, the problem could be a worn out wax ring. The wax ring seals the toilet to the floor. Over time it can deteriorate, leading to leaks. A cracked toilet bowl could also be to blame if your find water on the floor around your toilet.
4. Leaking supply line. The supply line, which carries water to the toilet, can become corroded or damaged, leading to leaks.

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Potential Risks and Complications of a Leaky Toilet

If you suspect your toilet is leaking, call Herbein Plumbing as soon as possible to avoid complications and potential damage to your home. In our experience as plumbers, we have seen faulty toilets cause a number of issues for homeowners: 

Water Damage to Floors and Ceilings

• Floor and subfloor damage: Moisture can seep into the floor and subfloor, causing rot, mold, and structural damage. If a toilet leak is caught in time, flooring can often be saved.
• Ceiling damage: If the leak is severe enough and is located on an upper floor of the home, it can damage the ceiling below. This is often the case when there is no visible indication around the toilet and the leaking water is hidden under the floor. 

Increased Water Bills

Whether you water is leaking out of the toilet or continually leaking into the bowl from the tank, you stand the chance of running up your water bill. A leaky toilet can waste hundreds or even thousands gallons of water per month.

Mold and Mildew Growth

Left unchecked, a leaky toilet can lead to mold and mildew growth, causing respiratory problems, allergies, and other health issues. Mold can also damage walls, ceilings, and other surfaces.

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How Herbein Plumbing Will Fix Your Leaky Toilet

1. Initial Inspection: Your Herbein plumber will inspect the toilet, checking for visible signs of leaks. This includes examining the base of the toilet, tank, and any surrounding areas for water damage or dampness.
2. Check the Flapper and Flush Valve: We will inspect the flapper, which is a common cause of leaks. If the flapper doesn’t seal properly, water can continuously leak from the tank into the bowl. The flush valve will also be checked for wear and tear.
3. Test the Water Supply Line: We will check the water supply line and the connection points to ensure they are secure and not leaking.
4. Tank Water Level and Float Mechanism: The water level in the tank can provide clues to your leaky toilet.  We will check that and adjust the float mechanism if necessary. A malfunctioning float can cause the tank to overfill and leak through the overflow tube.
5. Inspect the Wax Ring and Toilet Base: If the leak is coming from the base, the plumber will inspect the wax ring seal. This is the seal between the toilet and the drainpipe. If it’s damaged, the toilet may need to be removed to replace the wax ring.
6. Dye Test for Invisible Leaks: To detect hidden leaks, we may use a dye test by adding colored dye to the tank. If the dye appears in the bowl without flushing, it confirms a leak between the tank and the bowl.
7. Repair or Replace Parts: Depending on the issue, the plumber may either replace faulty parts like the flapper, fill valve, or wax ring, or recommend a full toilet replacement if necessary.
8. Final Testing: After making repairs, we’ll perform a final test to ensure the leak is resolved and that everything is functioning properly.

Residential Plumbing  Commercial Plumbing

Is it easy to change the flapper in my toilet?

Yes, changing a toilet flapper is generally a straightforward DIY task. If you’ve narrowed your toilet problem to a faulty flapper, you can find a new part at your local hardware store and change it yourself. Make sure you get the correct replacement flapper. Here’s a quick overview of the steps involved:

1. Turn off the water supply: Locate the shutoff valve under the sink and turn it clockwise until it stops.
2. Flush the toilet: This will help drain the tank.
3. Remove the old flapper: Unhook the chain from the flush handle, then lift the flapper out of the tank.
4. Install the new flapper: Place the new flapper in position and reattach the chain.
5. Turn the water back on: Slowly turn the shutoff valve counterclockwise.

We know repairs aren’t up everyone’s alley! If you’re unsure about the process, give us a call. In the meantime, turn off the water to your toilet until we arrive.

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Call Herbein Plumbing for Toilet Repairs or Replacements

If you suspect a leaky toilet, call the professionals at Herbein Plumbing.  We’ll inspect your toilet, identify the problem, and provide repairs or a replacement. Our experience coupled with timely responsiveness will prevent any further damage. 

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