Is there water pooling around the base of your toilet? That’s a warning sign of a leak, probably at the base of the toilet. To avoid turning your bathroom into a small swimming pool, grab your tools and start fixing the problem!
The bolts holding the toilet might be loose.
Do you notice the plastic caps around your toilet’s base? They cover the bolts that keep your toilet securely in place. If these bolts are loose or damaged, it can break the seal and cause leaks. Make sure your toilet is level and centered, then tighten the bolts. If they keep spinning or are broken, you’ll need to buy new ones.
Your toilet might have a broken wax ring.
If your toilet still leaks after tightening the tee bolts, the wax ring might be damaged and needs replacing.
- Buy a New Wax Ring: Go to the store and get a new wax ring. For help finding the right one, show a picture of your toilet’s base to a store assistant.
- Prepare the Toilet: Turn off the water behind the toilet and flush to empty as much water as possible. Use a bucket to catch any remaining water from the fill valve. Plunge the base to remove extra water.
- Remove the Toilet: Unscrew the water supply line and tee bolts. Carefully lift the toilet and set it on its side. Remove the old wax ring, cleaning off any residue.
- Install the New Wax Ring: Place the new wax ring over the flange with the tee bolts in place. Set the toilet back onto the new ring.
- Reinstall the Toilet: Make sure the toilet is centered and press it down into the wax ring. Tighten the tee bolts (but not too much), reconnect the water line, turn the valve on, and flush the toilet. Check for leaks around the new seal.
If you’re unsure or want a professional touch, call or contact us:
