Do you find that your toilet seems to constantly be refilling? Is the water pressure low on every flush? Have you noticed an uptick on your monthly water consumption? While you may not know a lot about your plumbing system, you should be able to recognize these common signs of a leaking toilet.
Of all the residential plumbing issues, leaky toilets are among the most common. Why? Because the toilet is one of the most used fixtures in your home. Like any other item in your home, it can deteriorate with time and use. So what do you do if there’s a leak?
As a homeowner, you should have a general idea of the signs of a toilet leak. Additionally, you may have some expertise at fixing it. Even if you don’t have the DIY know-how, you should at least know how to locate a leak and know who to call if there’s an issue. If that’s not the case, be sure to read on to learn some helpful tips for toilet care.
Signs Your Toilet Flapper is The Cause
One of the essential components of the flushing mechanism in your toilet is the flapper. The toilet flapper is the barrier above the inlet pipe that leads from the tank to the toilet.
If it’s stuck closed, you won’t be able to flush. If it’s stuck open, you’ll never get any water pressure either.
Because of its constant use, and because it’s often made of plastic or rubber, these parts are susceptible to damage. Some common signs that your flapper is the cause for your leaking toilet include:
Constant running water- Low water pressure
- Warped flapper
- Cracks and damaged seals
- Excessive refilling
Because the flapper is regularly replaced in many toilets, your local plumber will always have one on hand. If you plan on taking the DIY route, you can also easily find it at your local hardware store.
Common Repair Issues For Running Toilets
Outside of the toilet flapper, your toilet has other moving parts that can also be a cause for concern.
For starters, there are multiple seals around the main water line and base of your toilet that can all deteriorate over time.
If these are damaged, you’ll often find puddles of water in your bathroom, which can be a cause for concern. Also, the toilet itself can deteriorate with age as well as develop a pressured toilet clog.
Porcelain can crack and be an unsightly issue in your bathroom. If the crack is deep enough or in a location that’s under the water line, you’ll also find that water will leak into your home.
The Benefits of Toilet Maintenance
Toilet repairs can be expensive, particularly ones that lead to water damage as well. The best way to avoid these issues and keep your home safe is with regular plumbing maintenance.
Whether it’s a visual inspection you perform yourself, or a detailed analysis with your local plumber, a maintenance call is always cheaper than an emergency service.
At RupCoe Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning we are your expert plumbing contractors. Not only can we help you with those annoying leaks, but also we can keep your plumbing in the best working order around!
