Master Rooter

Your toilet is one of those items in your home that you don’t think much about — until you have to. Whether a leak is big or small, discovering that your toilet has one can feel mind-boggling. Modern plumbing has paved the way for clean, advanced toilet systems that provide comfort for “the go,” but when you’re not a plumbing expert, a simple leak can be difficult to remedy.

Relying on a plumbing professional to fix any toilet leaks will often save you time and money; however, discovering the source of a leak could help you avoid unnecessary appointments for simple fixes.

Let’s take a look at tank leaks for context!

‘I Discovered a Leak! Now What?’

If your toilet’s tank isn’t filling properly or always seems empty, it’s very likely that you have a tank leak. But there can be multiple culprits, and there’s an easy way to discover these!

Grab a permanent marker or some tape, and draw or tape a small line at the water level when the toilet tank is full. Don’t flush! Instead, wait about one hour and check your tank again. If the water has dropped below the line, the tank has a leak. Where the water settles will give you your source.

1. The Flapper is Busted: Your toilet’s flapper is the device that lifts up whenever you flush and allows the bowl to empty. When a flapper isn’t working properly, that means the seal where the flapper rests before being flushed is damaged. If your water line has dipped below the flapper and stops leaking, that’s likely the source!This can be an easy fix for seasoned homeowners, but if you’re not careful, it can become a large issue. Unless you feel confident about your home maintenance skills, call a plumbing expert for assistance.
2. The Connection is Faulty: The tank to toilet connection is a series of fasteners that help… well, connect your tank to your toilet bowl! If your water line drops to this section, you may have a simple fix on your hands.Try tightening the gaskets, nuts, and bolts on this series. Test the tank’s water level again using the tape/permanent marker trick. If the water doesn’t budge, you’ve solved your issue! If it does, then it’s time to call the plumber.
3. The Flush Valve Isn’t Working: Your toilet’s flush valve is what the flapper covers. It’s the entrance and exit point for water in your toilet tank, so when the water in your toilet tank leaks completely, this is how you know your flush valve is faulty.This kind of repair can be more difficult for homeowners to manage on their own. Since it’s the connection between your toilet bowl and tank, it’s vital that this device is repaired and installed properly. Call a plumber to avoid costly repair bills later!
4. There’s a Crack: This may be more difficult to locate. However, if the water in your tank leaks to a point in the tank where there’s no discernible device or location where water is coming out, this may be a sign that your toilet tank has a crack or a fracture. This is common in older toilets that are just too old.This type of leak may require a full toilet or tank replacement. If a crack is not mitigated quickly, it can cause more issues, like bathroom flooding and damage to your plumbing. Consult with a plumbing expert to determine the severity of your toilet tank’s crack and your next steps. The plumber can also properly install replacements to avoid further leaks or destruction to your bathroom.

Finding The Source, Protecting Your Home

At Master Plumbing, our experts are trained in all things plumbing. We can help you locate the source of your leak — tank or otherwise — and provide comprehensive service designed to remedy the root issue. Learn more online, and call us today to schedule your appointment with a trained professional.