6 Steps to Fix a Toilet Leaking at the Base
6 Steps to Fix a Toilet Leaking at the Base
6 Steps to Fix a Toilet Leaking at the Base

6 Steps to Fix a Toilet Leaking at the Base

A toilet leaking at the base is a common problem that you may deal with at some point. The following are some of the possible reasons why your toilet might be leaking at the base.

  • Loose tee bolts
  • Worn down wax ring
  • There’s a loose water supply line
  • Leaking water shut-off valve
  • Water is condensing on the toilet and pooling at the base of your toilet

Let’s look at how to fix a toilet leaking at the base.

Step 1: Check for Condensation

The first thing you should do when you notice water pooling at the base of your toilet is to check the outside of your toilet tank and toilet bowl to make sure the problem isn’t due to condensation.

If the problem is due to condensation, you can install a tank condensation liner on the inside of the toilet tank or add a toilet tank drip tray.

You can also address this problem by installing a bathroom exhaust fan.

Step 2: Tighten the Tee Bolts

Tee bolts fasten the toilet to the floor and keep it connected to the flange. These bolts can become loose over time and compromise the seal between the bottom surface of the toilet and the wax ring.

If these bolts are loose, you’ll need to replace the wax seal and tighten the bolts.

Step 3: Disconnect and Remove the Toilet

To be able to replace the wax seal, you’ll have to remove the toilet. Start with shutting off the water to your toilet and flushing your toilet to empty the tank. Disassemble other toilet parts with a lot of care and set the toilet on its side so that it doesn’t get damaged.

Step 4: Install A New Wax Ring

Remove the old wax ring around the drain opening and install a new one. Ensure it goes beyond the edges to avoid leaks. To avoid future problems, you should hire a plumber to handle this job.

Step 5: Reinstall the Toilet

Put your toilet back together and press it down onto the wax ring to create a tight seal. Tighten the tee bolts and ensure you don't overtighten them.

Step 6: Reconnect The Water Supply Line

Reattach the water supply line to the tank and reconnect the water supply tube to the fill valve. Turn on the water and flush the toilet to see if it’s working properly.

Is Your Toilet Leaking and You Need Leak Detection and Toilet Leak Repair? Call Leak Detection of Atlanta

A leaking toilet is one of the most unpleasant plumbing problems you can experience in your home. Nothing can be more disgusting than stepping into your bathroom and coming out with wet feet.

If left unrepaired, a toilet leak can waste many gallons of water, resulting in high water bills. Moreover, toilet leaks can cause water damage in your bathroom and present a perfect breeding spot for mold.

At Leak Detection of Atlanta, we can fix all types of toilet leaks to help you restore your toilet to its perfect working order.

We can also detect and fix slab leaks, kitchen sink leaks, appliance leaks, and other types of leaks.

April 09,2022

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