Written by and updated July 2024 by Joe Rantino
Of all the household leaks, toilet leaks might just be the most dreaded! From water on the floor to a constantly refilling cistern, a leaky toilet is a hassle, but don’t put off dealing with it. The fix could be relatively simple and inexpensive if you have it addressed promptly by a licensed Sydney plumber.
5 Common Causes of Toilet Leaks – and How To Fix Them
Toilets can leak from several different points including the cistern (the tank that stores the water for flushing) and the base. It’s important to determine where the leak is coming from and have it repaired as soon as possible. The consequences of ignoring a toilet leak may include:
- Continuous water wastage
- Unusually high water bills
- Water damage to floors, walls and even the ceiling if the toilet is located upstairs.
Here are five common causes of leaky toilets and how professional plumbing services can resolve them.
Leaking toilet cistern
When a toilet is flushed, water from the cistern flows into the toilet pan. If the inlet valve malfunctions, it can cause water to leak from the cistern. Replacing the valve and inner cistern rubber washer is straightforward if you’re good with the tools. However, some types of inlet valves may require special ordering through a plumber due to availability issues. Depending on the severity of the problem, replacing the entire toilet cistern might be a more cost-effective solution. Your plumber can provide the best advice to ensure your toilet operates efficiently without continuous cistern refilling.
Leaking flush pipe seal
Toilet rubber seals deteriorate over time. If the flush pipe seal isn’t watertight, the pipe connecting the cistern to the toilet can develop a leak. This is typically a straightforward repair but replacing the seal involves removing and reinstalling the flush pipe. Calling in a plumber for small jobs is an investment in getting it done right the first time.
Leaking pan collar
If water or sewerage starts to seep from the waste pipe where the toilet pan connects to the wall or floor, the pan collar rubber needs to be replaced. The age of the toilet suite and how easily the pan can be removed from the collar will determine whether your plumber seals the pan collar with an epoxy sealant or replaces the rubber collar with a new one. Sometimes older toilet pans may break during removal. Your plumber will consider the risk of this when providing a solution for this type of toilet leak.
Choose the plumber Ryde locals trust for expert plumbing advice and quality workmanship and repairs. Just call Joe!
Leaking thread or water hose
Sometimes a toilet may leak where the water connects to the toilet cistern on the thread. If it’s a pipe connection, the nut and bolt may need to be replaced. If it’s a flexi hose, the hose may need to be replaced. Both replacements must be done by a licensed plumber.
Cracked toilet bowl or cistern
Porcelain toilets are tough but they’re not invincible. Over time, wear and tear can cause cracks to form in the bowl or the cistern. What may begin as a hairline fracture can grow bigger over time and cause leaks. In most cases, replacing the entire toilet will be the best solution. Your plumber can assess the situation and explain your options.
Final Thoughts
Dealing with a leaking toilet is a nuisance – but repairing a small leak now is a much smarter option than waiting until there’s an overflowing toilet emergency or rotten floorboards that need to be replaced. The Gladesville Plumbing team provides quality plumbing services Sydney residents can rely on to get them out of the proverbial!
