How to Repair a Leaking Toilet

Toilet leaks can be caused by many different toiletrepair, it can be done without one. Begin by shutting
malfunctions. A broken water supply line, a damagedoff the water supply and emptying the tank and
wax ring below the bowl, or a ballcock tube that hasbowl. The water supply tube should be disconnected
slipped out of place can all cause leaks that arefrom the top connection at the toilet tank. Unscrew
relatively easy to fix without having to call a plumber.the toilet from the floor and carefully set it aside.
Proper plumbing tools and some basic do-it-yourselfWith a putty knife, carefully scrape the remaining
repair skills will both help in completing the repair. Theparts of the wax ring from the area. Clean the spot
steps below outline how to repair a leaking toilet forso that the new wax ring will be level. Place a new
different scenarios.wax ring on the opening and replace the toilet. Bolt it
Broken Water Supply Lineback onto the floor, reconnect the water supply tube
A broken water supply line can cause water to spurtand watch for leaks as the water is turned back on.
from the line connecting the toilet to the main waterRepairing a Ballcock Tube
valve. The first step to repair this leak is to shut offThe repair of a ballcock tube is the simplest repair of
the water supply valve. This will stop the flow ofall toilet leaks. There is a small black tube that is in
water to the toilet. Next, flush the toilet to removethe tank of the toilet that connects to the flush
the water from the bowl and hold down the handlevalve fill tube. If the tube slips from the little clasp
until it is completely empty.that holds it in place, it can begin spraying water in
Unscrew the water supply line at the base of thethe tank and out from under the tank cover. To fix
tank first. Be sure to place a bowl and rags beneaththis toilet leak, simple re-attach the black tube to the
the area to collect any drips of water. Using aclip. It really is that simple.
wrench, unscrew the tube from the water supplyToilet leaks can be scary and can quickly cause a lot
valve. Screw the new flex hose on the toilet tankof damage. Trust instincts and give the repairs a shot
being careful not to over tighten. Slowly turn theif possible. The supplies and tools needed can typically
water supply back on while checking for leaks as thebe purchased at local plumbing and home
water begins to flow.improvement stores. If there is any question about
Damaged Wax Ringwhat is causing the leak or a feeling of unease about
The wax ring is what the toilet base sits on. Withrepairing the problem, it is best to call a licensed,
time it can erode and cause leaks. Although manyprofessional plumber.
homeowners prefer to call a plumber for this type of