You might not think much of it when you hear a drip-drip-drip from your bathroom, but that little noise could be costing you big bucks. A small toilet leak can waste a staggering 200 gallons of water per day, adding up to thousands of gallons each month!
Here are some simple steps to help you identify and fix any leaks in your toilet tank.
Is your toilet leaking around the base? If so, you can click here to learn how to tackle the issue and fix it once and for all.
Why should you fix a toilet leak?
Toilet leaks should be fixed right away because they can lead to severe water damage and mold growth in the surrounding area of your home or business. If neglected, minor toilet leaks can cause major problems like weakened flooring, wall damage and other building-structure issues that result in costly repairs.
In extreme cases, long-term water damage can bring the risk of toxic mold health hazards. Looking out for signs like odors, stains or moisture is essential to identify and correct toilet leakage before it’s too late.
Step #1 — Check the water bill to see if there’s been a recent rise in costs
If you’ve noticed a sudden spike in your water bill, it could be an indication that you have a toilet leak. Toilet leaks can waste a lot of water, so if you see an unexplained increase in your water usage, it’s worth checking to see if you have a leak.
Step #2 — Listen for running water around your home
Another way to tell if you have a severe toilet leak is to listen for the sound of running water. If you hear water running even when all the faucets in your home are turned off, it’s likely that you have a leak.
Step #3 — Look for water on the floor of your home
If you suspect that you have a toilet leak, take a look around the base of your toilet to see if there is any water on the floor. A small amount of water may be normal, but if there is a large puddle or if the floor is constantly wet, it’s likely that you have a leak.
Step #4 — Feel for warm spots on the floor of your home
Another way to check for a toilet leak is to feel for warm spots on the floor around the toilet. If there is a spot that feels warmer than the surrounding area, it could be an indication that water is leaking from the tank and onto the floor.
Step #5 — Check for mold or mildew around the toilet
If you see mold or mildew around the toilet, this could also be an indication of a leak. To check for mold or mildew, simply look around the base of your toilet and in any cracks or crevices for any signs of mold or mildew. If you see mold or mildew, there may be a problem with a seal or another component of the toilet.
Step #6 — Check the tank
If you believe that you have a leak, it’s important to check the tank to see if there is any water leaking from it. To do this, simply flush the toilet and then watch the tank to see if any water is leaking from it. If you see water leaking from the tank, it’s likely that you have a problem with one of the seals or valves inside the tank.
Who should you call if your toilet is leaking?
If you’ve checked for all of these signs and you’re still not sure whether or not you have a toilet leak, the best thing to do is to call a plumber and have them take a look at your toilet. This is especially true if you are unsure of the root cause of the leak and what the magnitude of work will be in order to fix it.
It can also be beneficial to have an expert diagnose the problem, as this could prevent long-term problems or costly replacements that could have been avoided with prompt attention.
A reputable plumber will be able to identify any underlying issues, as well as determine ways to make sure that potential similar problems do not occur in other areas of your home.
Identify toilet leaks in 6 simple steps — Conclusion
If you’re experiencing a high water bill, there is a good chance you have a toilet leak.
Thankfully, it’s not difficult to identify leaks in your toilet—you can do it yourself in six simple steps. But if you’re uncomfortable or unsure about completing these steps, don’t hesitate to contact a professional plumbing service for assistance. They will be able to quickly and accurately find the cause of your leak and make the necessary repairs.
Have you identified any toilet leaks in your home?
Images by Depositphotos
