How to Detect a Toilet Leak

Plumbing systems are designed to contain waste, wastewater, and liquids in addition to guiding them through to the sewer system. Leaks in the system can lead to spikes in water bills as well as water damage. Detecting a toilet leak early on can save you hundreds of dollars on water bills and prevent costly damages to your plumbing system and building’s foundation. Leak Detection of Atlanta recommends that all households understand the following methods to detect a toilet leak. Luckily, these methods are not very difficult, nor do they require many tools and equipment.

Use Food Coloring

Add some food coloring into your toilet tank and let it sit for about 30 minutes. Ideally, the food coloring should remain in the toilet tank. If there is a leak in your toilet, then the food coloring will flush into the toilet bowl. Most of the time, the issue here is with the flapper, the rubber valve that lifts when you flush the toilet. First check for sediment or debris around it. If that is not the case, then you should replace the flapper.

Check the Water Level

If you do not have food colorant, then draw a line to mark the current water level in the toilet tank. Come back to check after about 30 minutes. If the water level has dropped below that marked line, then you have a leak which is likely due to a faulty flapper.

Set the Water Level

When the water level in the toilet tank exceeds the overflow level, surplus water will leak into the overflow tube. Luckily, the fix here is simple. Bend the float arm downwards to set the water level lower and prevent the water from filling over the overflow level.

Tighten the Connections

Sometimes a leak stops if you play with the toilet handle a bit. This is a sign that the handle, flush level, or chain may be trapped or stuck. Check inside of the toilet tank and adjust the nut that attaches the handle to the tank.

Leaks Around the Base

If you are witnessing pools of water around the base of your toilet, then the issue is more serious. However, there is a chance that you can still fix this issue if the toilet and bowl are not cracked. The leak may be caused by a worn washer, bolt, or tank-bowl gasket. If the toilet and bowl are cracked, then you will likely need a replacement toilet.

Check the Pipes

Pipes are prone to cracking and rusting over time. Plumbing systems have life expectancies, after all. Checking the pipes for rust and damage will probably require the assistance of a certified professional. If you are noticing water stains on your walls or ceilings, then call the experts at Leak Detection of Atlanta as soon as possible.

Getting to the issue sooner can save a crack from turning into a full-blown burst pipe. Leak Detection of Atlanta is proud to be a 24-hour leak detection service provider in Atlanta with response times as quick as 15 minutes. Call now to speak with a friendly representative.