HOW TO FIX A LEAKING TOILET (2024)

Leaking toilets can lead to significant water wastage and potentially high bills. It's crucial to address leaks promptly as they can be hazardous to your family's health.

Here is a simple guide on how to fix a leaking toilet, which often involves issues such as weakened wax seals or corroded tee bolts, the two most common sources of leaks at the base of your toilet.

We recommend engaging a registered plumber for anything beyond replacing a washer. Let us know if you have any questions.

 

How To Fix A Leaking Toilet

 

1. Identify the Source of the Leak
2. Tools and Materials Needed
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
   1. Disconnect and Remove the Toilet
   2. Replace the Wax Ring
   3. Reinstall the Toilet
4. Troubleshooting Common Problems
5. When to Call a Professional

Identify the Source of the Leak

 

Before dismantling anything, it's important to diagnose the problem accurately:

• Check for Condensation, which may form on the outside of the toilet bowl. This could indicate a faulty flapper, the part of your toilet that seals the opening between the tank and the toilet bowl.
• Tighten the Tee Bolts located on the base of the toilet underneath the plastic caps. They keep your toilet fastened to the ground and sealed to the flange and drainage pipe. Remove the plastic covers from the base, then use an adjustable open-end wrench to test and tighten the bolts. Make sure the wax seal is compressed against the floor.

Tools and Materials Needed

 

You’ll need several tools and supplies to effectively fix the leak:

• Wrench and Screwdrivers: To remove nuts, bolts, and various toilet parts.
• Bathroom Cleaner and Cleaning Cloths: To clean around the base of your toilet before and after the repair.
• Toilet Repair Kit: Includes Washers, Gaskets, Toilet Bolts, Toilet Wax Ring, and Putty Knife. Available at your local hardware store.
• Cordless Drill or Driver and Hacksaw: To remove tight bolts and cut through stubborn components.
• Rubber Gloves and Caulk: To protect your hands and reseal the toilet base after repair.

Step-by-Step Instructions

 

Disconnect and Remove the Toilet

• • Shut off the water valve to avoid flooding.
  • Flush the toilet to drain all the water from the cistern.
  • Use a cloth and cleaning agent to mop up excess water.
  • Unscrew the supply tube and remove the nuts from the Tee bolts using a wrench or hacksaw.
  • Carefully lift the toilet away from the floor drain.

Replace the Wax Ring

• • Remove the old wax ring using a putty knife. Install the new wax ring with the plastic cone facing down toward the drain, ensuring that the tee bolts are positioned correctly on each side of the flange.

Reinstall the Toilet

• • Place the toilet back over the drain and press down to compress the wax ring and create a seal. Tighten the Tee bolts gently—over-tightening can crack the porcelain. Reconnect the water supply and turn the water back on. Flush the toilet to ensure no leaks are present. Seal the base with caulk.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

 

If you encounter issues such as a continuously running cistern or moisture around the base, you may need to adjust the flapper or replace the water valve. Regular checks and maintenance can prevent these issues.

 

When to Call a Professional

 

While many issues can be handled DIY, some scenarios, like deep internal leaks or when the source isn't easily identifiable, require professional intervention. Fast Plumber is ready to assist with more complex toilet repairs or installations.

Contact Fast Plumber today with any questions or for plumbing services on 1800 00 FAST or mobile 0437 288 80. You can also send us an email at info@thefastplumber.com.au. Remember, when you call us, you speak to an actual plumber, not a call centre.