A leaking toilet base can be a big inconvenience and can cause water damage to your floors and bathroom fixtures. There are several things that may cause a toilet to leak, and it is important to troubleshoot the problem to prevent further water damage.
Below are just a few of their possible causes and how to approach them best, if ever you would encounter one.
1. Because of a Loosely-Attached Toilet
The most common reason a toilet leaks at the base is that the bolts that attach it to the floor are not properly tightened or that the wax seal between the toilet and the sewer pipe is not intact.
If your bolts have loosened, it could be from years of use or from a rushed installation where the bolts didn't attach properly to the closet flange. Other factors, like a failed wax seal, could also be the cause.
If you're concerned that your toilet may not be installed correctly, you can check for loose parts or speak to a local plumber.
2. Because of a Broken Wax Seal
A broken wax seal occurs when the wax ring that seals the toilet to the floor becomes damaged or displaced. This can happen for a number of reasons, but most often, it's due to a poor installation or a shifting foundation. A broken wax seal will cause water to leak from the base of the toilet and, if left unaddressed, can lead to significant water damage.
It is one of the common reasons a toilet leaks at the base. The seal is designed to sit between the bottom of the toilet and the closet flange in order to prevent dirty water from escaping. If the seal is broken, it can cause leaks.
If your toilet is frequently leaking, it may be time to replace the wax seal or silicone ring. This is a simple fix that most plumbers know how to do. If you're attempting to do it yourself, be sure to clean the closet flange to ensure a tight seal.
Most people clean their toilet bowls with harsh chemicals in order to kill germs and bacteria. However, this can actually damage the wax seal, causing it to break. If you have a toilet with a broken wax seal, you should use milder cleaning agents to avoid further damage.
3. Because of a Loose Connection between the Bowl and Tank
The reason you can trace a leak on the toilet base to the mack washer is that the washer is the point where the tank and bowl connect. Water can drip and collect at the bottom of the toilet, making it appear as if the toilet is leaking from the base. However, this is not an issue with toilets where the tank and bowl are one piece.
A leak in your home could also be caused by a loose bolt or a cracked O-ring gasket. While tightening the bolts may temporarily fix the problem, you will need to replace the gasket to stop the leak completely. Hiring a professional plumber is the best course of action, as they will be able to properly assess the situation and provide the best solution.
4. Because of a Loose Water Supply Line
A water supply line is a pipe that brings water to your toilet. If this pipe is damaged, it can cause your toilet to leak.
The first step to fixing a bathroom that is flooding due to poor connection of the water supply pipes is to ensure that the bots, or connections, are tight and in good condition. If you have called in a professional plumber to do the job, remember to turn off the main water supply valve to your home, so that water will not flood your bathroom while the work is being done.
Conclusion
There are many possible causes of a leaking toilet base. Some of the most common include a faulty wax ring, a loose toilet flange, or a loose water supply line. If you notice any leaks, it's important to call a plumber as soon as possible to avoid further damage.
If you are looking for
affordable plumbers in Port Macquarie, look no further than our experts here at Mid Coast Plumbing and Fire. From blocked drains to bathroom and kitchen renovations, we are always ready to sort out your plumbing solutions. Call us today and let us tend to your leaking toilet base in no time.
