Common causes and fixes for a leaking toilet - Stop flushing money down the toilet!

Toilet leaks are a common household issue that can happen to anyone, but identifying the cause of the leak is key to fixing it.

Don't forget to turn off the water at the cistern to prevent before you are trying to resolve the issue.

Here are some signs to watch out for:

1. Water on the floor - When it comes to finding water on your bathroom floor, don't start accusing your loved ones! The real culprit could be a dodgy seal. Take a closer look at the flush pipe rubber that connects the cistern to the toilet bowl, and the pan connector's rubber seal that links the toilet bowl to the sewer. If either of these seals are looking a little worse for wear, they could be the reason you're getting an unwanted shower every time you flush. Of course, the best course of action is to replace both fittings, but in the meantime, you can whip out some sanitary grade silicone and give them a good seal to tide you over.

2. Toilet cistern constantly refills -  Have you noticed your toilet cistern constantly refilling even when nobody's used it? Don't worry, it's a common problem that can be easily fixed by a plumber. You might need a new water inlet valve, which can be retrofitted to most cisterns. But if you have an induct cistern, you'll need to order a specific valve.

3. Water run line from under the rim to the water seal - Another common issue is water running from under the rim of the toilet bowl to the water seal at the bottom. This means the rubber washer that seals the cistern has ripped or perished. Replacing the washer is a simple fix, but if you still have water running into the bowl after doing so, it could indicate that the internals of the toilet cistern need to be replaced. Sometimes, it's more cost-effective to replace the entire toilet suite instead of just the parts.

In addition to the signs mentioned above there are a few more things you can do to identify and fix a leaky or running toilet.

1. Check the flapper chain/ lever -One thing to check is the flapper chain or lever. If it's too long or short, it can cause the flapper to not seal correctly, which results in the toilet continuously running. If your toilet has a chain less flushing mechanism with a flapper, it probably uses a lever to control the flapper during a flush cycle. The lever should not be too long or short and may require replacement if it breaks or cracks over time.

2. Check the fill valve - If the fill valve is not working correctly, it can cause the toilet to run or leak. The fill valve refills the tank after each flush, and if it's not shutting off properly, water will continue to flow into the tank and eventually overflow. Replacing the fill valve can help solve this problem.

In addition, regular maintenance is crucial for any household appliance to ensure optimal performance, and your toilet is no exception. It's essential to inspect the flex hose connecting your washing machine to the water supply regularly. Check for any visible signs of wear and tear, such as rust or fraying. If you notice any of these signs, it's crucial to replace the hose immediately. Proactively monitoring and maintaining your appliances can save you from costly repairs and potential water damage.

At Plumbersbest.com.au, we are committed to providing our customers with high-quality plumbing supplies and expert advice on all aspects of plumbing, drainage, and water management. Whether you are a DIY enthusiast or a professional plumber, we have a wide range of products and tools to help you get the job done quickly and efficiently. Plus, our team of friendly and knowledgeable staff is always ready to answer any questions you may have and provide you with personalized recommendations based on your specific needs and budget.