Have you ever flushed your toilet only to notice that the water keeps flowing uncontrollably? Is there little to no water pressure in your bathroom? For homeowners, a leaking toilet is one of the more common issues you can deal with.
Yet, many people don’t know what causes them or even how their toilet works to flush. The first thing you should do is open the toilet tank and take a look at the components inside. Not only will this give you an idea of what’s causing the issue, but also it’ll help you visualize what repairs are needed in your home.
Although leaking toilets can be a nuisance, they can easily be fixed with a little know-how and plumbing expertise. If this is your first time dealing with this issue, be sure to read on and learn the skills needed to make quick work of your toilet issues.
The Role of The Toilet Flapper
The toilet flapper is the key component to the entire flushing process. When it’s closed, it allows water to refill in your toilet, ready for the next flush.
When you do flush the toilet, the flapper opens, allowing the water to pass through, and creating the necessary pressure to effectively remove waste.
Toilet flappers are generally made from plastic or rubber, and create an airtight seal around the inlet pipe that leads to your toilet. They come in all types and models but generally range from a plug, flap, or complete assembly that also includes the refilling valve and float.
Because these parts are often the cause of water leaks, they can easily be found at your local hardware store. For professional plumbers, they’re also always in stock on the truck.
If you see that the flapper is warped or letting too much water through even when it should be sealed, a simple replacement will get everything back in working order in no time!
Common Causes For Running Toilets
If the toilet flapper is not the issue, what else could be causing the toilet leak? Common causes can range from:
Cracks in the porcelain.- Faulty float.
- Leaking valves.
- Damaged seals.
- Old toilets.
- Sewer line issue.
For most homeowners, these leaks will often be around the base of the toilet or behind it. If you notice that your valve is old and rusted, chances are that’s the source of the problem. For older homes, the toilet itself could be a cause for concern.
Like any other fixture in your home, porcelain can deteriorate and crack. This will not only leak water into your bathroom but also it will lead to the need for a complete replacement.
How Plumbing Maintenance Can Help
What’s the easiest way to deal with a leaking toilet? Avoid it from the start. Plumbing maintenance is always a must for every homeowner.
Not only does it limit the risk for emergency repairs, but also it keeps your plumbing running in top shape. At S and J Plumbing we are your Arlington heights plumbing experts.
Not only can we respond to emergency situations like a water leak but also we can help you replace all your flushing components too. Best all, we take the time to educate our customers to better respond to plumbing issues, giving you the tools you need to protect your own home.
