A leaking toilet can be a frustrating and costly issue, especially if left unattended. Leaks can not only waste water but also cause damage to your bathroom and home. A leaking toilet can have a significant impact on your water bill because it wastes water continuously. Even a small leak can add up to a significant amount of water waste over time, and this can result in a higher water bill.
When a toilet is leaking, water continuously flows from the tank to the bowl. Even when the toilet is not being used. This could be because of the flapper valve that controls the flow of water from the tank to the bowl. If it is not sealing properly, it’s allowing water to escape into the bowl.
Over time, this constant flow of water can add up to a significant amount. For example, a small leak of 1/8 inch can waste up to 300 gallons of water per day. Which is equivalent to 10,000 gallons per month.
This wasted water will be included in your water bill, and you will be charged for it. So, if you have a leaking toilet, you will see an increase in your water bill that is not related to your actual water usage.
To avoid this problem, it’s important to fix any leaks in your toilet as soon as possible. This can help you save water and money on your water bill. To help you prevent and resolve the issue, here are the top 5 reasons behind a leaking toilet in Australia.
1. Toilet Leaking from Pipe at Back
One of the most common causes of a leaky toilet is a leak from the pipe at the back. This type of leak usually happens when the wax ring that seals the toilet to the flange is damaged or worn out.
The wax ring is an important component that prevents water from seeping between the toilet and the flange. If the wax ring is damaged, water will leak from the back of the toilet. Causing water damage to your bathroom floor and potentially other areas of your home.
Corroded Pipes can cause leaks that are hard to detect. Over time, the pipes connecting the toilet to the water supply can become corroded, leading to leaks.
2. Toilet Leaking at Base
Another common reason behind a leaking toilet is a leak at the base. This type of leak can occur if the toilet base is cracked or damaged, causing water to seep out and onto the bathroom floor. To resolve this issue, you may need to replace the toilet or have a professional repair the base.
A Faulty Wax Ring is a common problem found with leaking toilets. The wax ring that seals the toilet to the floor can become worn-out or misaligned, causing water to leak from the base of the toilet.
3. Leaking Toilet Cistern
A leaking toilet cistern is another common cause of a leaky toilet. The cistern is responsible for storing water until it’s needed for flushing. If the cistern is damaged, water can leak into the bowl, causing a slow and steady leak. To resolve this issue, you may need to replace the cistern or have it repaired by a professional.
A crack in the toilet tank can also lead to a leak. This can be caused by an impact, excessive tightening of bolts, or simply due to age. Loose or Faulty Fill Valves can also cause a toilet to leak. A fill valve that is either loose or not functioning correctly can cause water to overflow from the tank, resulting in a leak.
If you have identified the cistern as the cause of the leak click the link to read our post How To Fix A Leaking Toilet Cistern.
4. Water Leaking into Toilet Bowl
If water is leaking into the toilet bowl, it’s possible that there’s a problem with the fill valve or the flapper. The fill valve is responsible for filling the cistern with water after each flush. If the fill valve is damaged or worn out, it may allow water to leak into the bowl.
Similarly, if the flapper is damaged, water may leak into the bowl even when the toilet isn’t in use. To resolve these issues, you may need to replace the fill valve or flapper, or have a professional repair them. A damaged or worn-out flapper can result in water constantly flowing from the tank to the bowl, leading to a leaking toilet.
5. Toilet Tap Leaking
Finally, a leaky toilet tap can also be a cause of a leaking toilet. If the tap is damaged or worn out, water may leak from the spout and into the bowl, causing a slow and steady leak. To resolve this issue, you may need to replace the tap or have it repaired by a professional.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are many reasons why a toilet may be leaking, but by understanding the most common causes, you can prevent or resolve the issue quickly and efficiently.
A leaking toilet can be a nuisance and a cause for concern for homeowners. When water is constantly dripping from the toilet tank or bowl, it can lead to higher water bills and potential water damage. The leakage may be caused by a faulty plumbing system or an issue with the toilet’s flush mechanism. It is important to conduct regular maintenance on your toilet and to have a leakage detection system in place to catch any leaks early.
If left unchecked, the leakage can seep into the drain and cause significant damage to your home’s foundation. Don’t let a leaking toilet cause any more damage – call a plumbing professional to address the issue as soon as possible.
If you’re not confident in your ability to diagnose and fix the problem, it’s best to call in a professional plumber who will be able to assess the situation and provide you with a solution that will ensure your toilet is back to working properly in no time.
