If you ever notice water pooling around the base of your toilet or dripping from the tank, your toilet might be leaking. While it’s a common issue, getting emergency plumbing servicesis necessary, or it can lead to significant water damage and mold growth if not addressed quickly.
Here’s a simple guide on what not to do and how to fix a leaking toilet.
What NOT to Do When Your Toilet is Leaking
- Ignore It: Never ignore a leaking toilet, no matter how minor it seems. Even a small leak can lead to significant water damage over time.
- Use a DIY Fix: While some DIY solutions might temporarily stop the leak, they can often cause more problems down the line. It’s best to leave it to professionals.
- Overtighten Bolts: Tightening bolts excessively can damage the toilet and make the leak worse. It’s essential to know the correct level of tightness for each bolt.
- Avoid Inspections: Regular inspectionscan catch leaks before they become severe. Ignoring inspections can lead to unexpected problems.
- Delay Repairs: Don’t procrastinate when it comes to plumbing issues. Delaying repairs can lead to more significant problems and higher repair costs.
- Use Harsh Chemicals: Avoid using harsh chemicals to try to unclog a toilet. They can damage your plumbing system and worsen the leak.
- Neglect Professional Help: It’s crucial to involve professional plumbing services in Mundelein when dealing with a leaking toilet. They have the expertise and tools to diagnose and fix the issue correctly.
- Forget Regular Maintenance: Regular maintenance is key to preventing leaks. Don’t forget to schedule routine check-ups with your local residential plumbing repair services.
How to Fix a Leaking Toilet
- Find the shut-off valve near the toilet’s base and turn it clockwise to stop the flow of water.
- Push the flush handle to empty the toilet’s tank and bowl, allowing the water to drain away.
- Thoroughly inspect the toilet’s tank, bowl, and base for visible signs of damage, such as cracks, corrosion, or loose connections.
- If the flapper valve is old or damaged, it could be causing the leak. Remove the old flapper valve and install a new one, ensuring a proper seal.
- A damaged wax seal at the toilet’s base can also cause leaks. To fix this, the toilet will need to be removed, the old seal removed, and a new one installed.
- If the toilet is leaking at its base, the bolts securing it to the floor may need to be tightened. Be cautious not to over-tighten them to prevent damage.
Call a Professional
If you’re not confident in your ability to fix the leak or if the problem persists, it’s best to call FlowPro Plumbing for residential plumbing repairs. We can identify the cause of the leak and provide a long-lasting solution.
Our emergency plumbing services in Mundelein ensure your concerns are addressed promptly. So, if you need help with a leaking toilet or need broken pipe repairs, give us a call.
