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When your toilet shows signs of leaking, it can be concerning and inconvenient. However, before calling a plumber, it’s important to understand what’s causing the leak. Here’s what you need to know. 

What Causes a Toilet to Leak? 

1. The Wax Ring 

If you notice water seeping out around the toilet’s base, a damaged wax ring may be to blame. This thick, circular, wax gasket seals the toilet’s outlet to the waste pipe in the floor.

Over time, its pliable material may dry out and shrink, allowing water to escape with each flush. When the ring begins to fail, the toilet must be unseated to replace it—a job for an experienced plumber.

2. Cracks in the Bowl 

plumberDamage to the bowl’s porcelain may lead to leaks. If you notice trickles of moisture from a particular area, examine the surface closely. Cracks usually start small and spread over time. Soon, you may have a larger leak to deal with, so have the bowl assembly replaced.

3. Gaskets

Most toilets are comprised of separate tank and bowl units. They’re connected by a rubber ring, or gasket, that prevents water from escaping when the toilet is flushed.

The gasket can become brittle or deteriorate over the years. If flushing causes water to trickle out between the bowl and tank, call a plumber to have the gasket replaced.

4. The Water Line 

The water line is a narrow, flexible tube that extends from the wall behind your toilet to the tank. Every time you flush, it delivers fresh water to replenish the supply. If the connector’s fastening assembly or interior washers loosen or fail, you’ll notice a leak where they attach to the tank.

 

If your toilet shows any signs of leaking, consult a trusted plumber right away. Steve’s Plumbing & Heating offers expert service and 24-hour emergency repairs throughout the Wisconsin Rapids, Stevens Point, Marshfield, and Wausau, WI, areas. They also specialize in quality HVAC installations and maintenance. Call (715) 421-1800 anytime for the help you need right now, or visit them online to explore all of their services in Portage County.

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