Detecting Water Leaks - Toilet Edition

Did you know the most common leaks come from your toilet?

Two common toilet leak sites are the overflow pipe and the flapper valve, both located inside the toilet tank.

  1. Overflow pipe: If the leak is coming from the overflow pipe, you will see water flowing over the top of the pipe which means the water level is too high. Depending on the type of toilet, older toilets have a float arm that can be bent down to adjust the water level so it stops a half inch below the top of the overflow pipe. For newer toilets, the water level can be adjusted by turning a small knob.

  2. Flapper Valve: If the leak is not at the overflow pipe, the flapper valve is probably the culprit. If the flapper valve appears to be deteriorated or doesn’t seal completely, it should be replaced. You can find a replacement flapper at a local hardware store.

    Tips before the hardware store or calling your local plumber

    1. Know your toilets manufacturer

    2. Model number (often a 4-digit number stamped into the porcelain on the back inside of the toilet tank)

      • Universal Flappers may fit your toilet but can cause 1.6 gallon toilets to use as much as 5 gallons per flush

Dan Dupirak