How to Fix a Leaking Toilet

Toilet leaks can be quite expensive to fix if you get them repaired by a professional plumber. Seeing that we are currently faced with tough economical times, many have been trying to cut back on their expenses where ever possible. As a result, many have started to work on things themselves. Trying to fix a leaking toilet is not as complicated as it may look. As long as you have the right set of tools and know what to do, you are guaranteed to be able to solve your problem without having to spend more than a $20 bill.

You can find yourself with a leaking toilet in two cases. Both of which are quite common. Depending on which problem you have, the approach to fix the leak will vary quite significantly. We will take a look at both of these situations separately.

Fill Valve Leaks

Finding a leak at the fill valve location is one of the most common scenarios that one can find them self in. The fill valve is usually located at the bottom of the of the toilet tank. This is the place which leads to the main source of water supply which is usually fitted in the wall. If you are suffering from a leak from the fill valve region, make sure that everything is tightened properly. Start off by tightening all the little bolts so that they are firmly in place. Dry the area that is leaking then try looking to see if you can see or at least feel the leak. This will help make you realize as to whether or not the leak is coming from the valve or not.

After making sure that it is the fill valve that is leaking, we can move on to solving the issue. Start off by turning off the main source of water supply to the toilet tank. After having done so, flush the toilet to make sure that there is no water left in the tank. If necessary, use a towel or a sponge to soak up the remaining water. After having done that, using a wrench, disconnect the tube coupling nut. Slowly take out the gasket and washer. Look to see if it is damaged or needs repairing. If that is the case, simply replace it with a new washer and place it back into the toilet flush. Tighten the tube using a wrench once again and that should sort out your problem.

Flush Valve Leaks

Suffering from leaks at the flush valve is another common scenario that you can be faced with. Follow the same steps to dry the water tank as mentioned above. After having done so unscrew the tank and take it off from the connecting seat. Lay the tank on its side and carefully remove the flush valve. Try cleaning the old parts and see if that makes a difference. If it doesn’t fix the problem, only then should you replace any parts that need fixing.

Photo Credits: Titanas

Originally posted 2010-03-23 03:34:53.

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bolts, gasket, leaking toilet, main source, professional plumber, scenarios, source of water, sponge, toilet leaks, toilet tank, water supply

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Posted by Fix Handyman on August 8, 2010 in How to Fix, Plumber, toilet. You can skip to the end and leave a response. Pinging is currently not allowed.