The Most Common Causes of a Leaky Toilet

Feb 28

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A leaky toilet might not seem like a huge problem, but the water can quickly damage the bathroom walls and floor. External leaks can cause water puddles that can damage a downstairs ceiling, while internal leaks prevent the toilet from holding water properly.

Here are some of the most common issues that can lead to a leaking toilet.

External leaks

External leaks are the more problematic type, as the damage they can do to the entire house can require considerable repairs. Luckily, the first sign of these leaks is water puddling around the toilet base, which people often notice during their day-to-day activities.

Bowl condensation

If you notice water on the outside of the toilet bowl or tank, it’s best to check if it comes from condensation before hiring a plumber. Bathrooms can get humid after long, hot showers, and that steam can condense on top of the toilet or tank. Typically, the amount of water left from condensation shouldn’t be significant and isn’t a major cause for concern.

Cracked tank or bowl

While the porcelain throne is built to withstand a lot of abuse, it’s not made to last forever. A small hairline crack in the bowl or in the top of the tank can develop into a fracture through which water may leak.

Rusted or leaking pipes

The main water line that supplies water to the bowl can rust or deteriorate over time, especially if the plumbing in the home is old. A rusty pipe can develop a leak around the seal that connects it to the toilet tank.

Bad connections to the tank or bowl

With a two-piece toilet (separate tank and bowl), the connection between the two elements is sealed by a group of nuts, bolts, and gaskets. If any of them loosen up, water may leak out of the toilet bowl.

If the bowl and tank are connected by a tube, it can also develop a leak and require repair.

If there is water around the toilet’s entire base, the most likely explanation is a loosened seal around the bowl.

Internal leaks

An internal leak happens when a tank’s internal component fails. The most likely culprits are the float, valve, and flapper.

Bad flapper

The flapper prevents the water from entering the bowl unless flushed. A worn-out flapper might not make a full seal around the base of the tank and will continuously leak water into the bowl.

Misaligned valve and float

The fill valve controls how much water the tank can hold. A broken, misaligned, or rusted fill valve may put in too little water (which isn’t a terrible issue) or force the tank to overflow. If the float is likewise damaged or worn out, it will result in the toilet not working properly.

How to fix a toilet leak

The best way to fix a leaking toilet is to use high-quality replacement parts. If you’re unsure which part is at fault and needs repair, contact a professional plumbing service for assistance.