A water leak can cause serious damage. If the leak is in the toilet base, you should not ignore it. The common reason behind the toilet leaking at base is damage to the wax ring. Don’t worry, this problem can be solved. In this blog by Parzival Plumbing, we will discuss every possible solution for a leaky toilet. Every issue needs to know the exact source of the problem. Once the issue is detected, you can immediately go for the solution. We have effective tools and proven technologies to inspect the exact issue and provide toilet leaking repair services. When the problem is a leaky toilet, rely on Parzival Plumbing.
What are the Causes of a Leaky Toilet?
Damaged Wax Ring
The wax ring plays an important role in preventing a leaky toilet. This seal is present between the toilet base and the drain pipe. This ring is made from sticky wax that forms a tight bond, so water doesn’t leak. Over time, this wax ring gets damaged and breaks, allowing water to seep through the cracks.
Loose Toilet Bolts
Toilet bolts are crucial to maintain the tight wax ring seal. Moreover, it also holds your toilet to the floor. After years of use, the plumbing hookups and gaskets gradually begin to loosen. This results in the toilet leaking at base. Loose or broken toilet bolts lead to a less stable toilet and even leakage.
Faulty Flange
The ring-shaped flange fitted at the base of the toilet base is sealed against the wax ring. If the flange does not fit properly, it can be due to improper installation, or any crack can lead to a leak. Moreover, it is very difficult to identify the flange leak. Your toilet will continue to leak even if it is not in use.
Broken Toilet Bowl
With decades of use and temperature changes, porcelain toilets have sturdy endurance, whereas the ceramic ones do not. They are more brittle. Below the wax ring, some hairline fractures begin to form in the base, which creates a direct way for water entry. The bowl’s age causes these fractures.
At Parzival, Plumbing, we understand these issues and provide long-lasting solutions. Our toilet tank repair service in Oak Creek ensures your toilet is working efficiently.
How to Detect the Exact Issue?
Food Coloring Test
A dye test is an effective technique to detect the leak sources that are unidentified. Even if you have a toilet tank leaking, add a few drops of food color or dye to the toilet tank, and look for any color leaking around the base.
Visual Inspection
When you see water pooling around the toilet base, do not make rough judgments. Examine the area carefully using a flashlight. To detect the issue with the wax ring or flange, look for cracks in the bowl or any loose plumbing bolts.
Recurring Leaks
Some leaks only occur after flushing. This can be due to high water pressure. Pay attention before, during, and after a flush to detect the toilet leaking. To ensure the leak is detected, don’t forget to dry the area first.
If you are not sure, Parzival Plumbing can help you. Our licensed plumbers provide complete residential toilet repair service in Irvine. We have the local expertise and understand the local plumbing issues.
How to Address a Leaky Toilet?
Shut Off the Main Water Supply
The first step is to immediately notice a leak and turn off the main water supply to prevent the toilet from leaking. You can find a valve near the base of your toilet. Once you have turned off the valve, flush the toilet to remove extra water in the bowl and tank. You can use a towel or a sponge to remove the leftover water.
Disconnect the Toilet
Once you have turned off the toilet base, remove the toilet from the base. Using a wrench, loosen the bolts that are holding the toilet to the base. Ensure no water is left in the tank. Then, break the wax seal by back and forth movement. Do this work carefully. Do not damage the floor or toilet. Once you lift the toilet, place it on an old towel.
Wax Ring Inspection
When you remove the toilet, you can see the wax ring. Examine it carefully for any sign of damage. The most common cause of a toilet leaking at base is an old or damaged wax ring. If there is any sign of damage in the old wax ring or debris in the flange, use a scraper to remove it. Cleaning the flange is a crucial step.
Examine Bolts & Flange
Look closely at the bolts on both sides of the flange. Make sure they’re tight, showing no signs of rust, and properly aligned. These bolts play a crucial role in keeping the toilet in the right place. Also, examine the flange. It is a circular pipe that fits on the floor. Make sure there is no corrosion, cracks, or other damage.
When to Call a Professional Plumber?
If you have tried the toilet repair process on your own and the issue persists. This is a sign that the issue can be big and deep down. There can be an issue with the pipe or improper sealing. Moreover, ignoring this issue can result in serious structural damage and an increase in utility bills. At Parzival Plumbing, we provide professional toilet leak repair services to solve your problem effectively. Whether it is day or night, in any urgent situation, we are available 24/7, providing 24-hour emergency plumbing services.
Conclusion
Never ignore a leaking toilet. A minor leak can result in a major disaster. If you suspect a toilet tank leaking issue, calling an expert plumber is the right decision. A certified plumber identifies the issue accurately using specialized tools. Once the problem is identified, they offer a durable fix. When it comes to toilet repair in Orange County, contact Parzival Plumbing. We offer same-day plumbing services to prevent extensive damage to your bathroom.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you provide toilet repair services on the weekend?
Yes. If there is an emergency, no need to worry. We are in your neighborhood, providing emergency toilet repair services.
How will I know the wax ring is damaged?
When you flush, the water pools at the base. This has a pungent smell. To confirm it, contact Parzival Plumbing.
Can tightening the bolts solve the issue of the toilet leak?
In some cases, a toilet leak can be due to loose bolts. Tightening the bolts can solve the issue. But if the issue persists, call a professional plumber for toilet leaking repair.
What preventive measures should I take to avoid a toilet leak?
Regular maintenance is necessary to avoid a toilet leak. An inspection by a professional plumber can detect the issue on time before it becomes a major issue.
Why should I fix a leaky toilet immediately?
If you do not address the leaky toilet on time, it can result in an increase in the water bills and costly structural damage.
