Toilet Leaks Only When Flushed – Main Causes, Tips For Fixing

What to do if the toilet leaks only when flushed? They are one of the more frequent plumbing problems homeowners must face. If your toilet is leaking when you flush, you could be suffering from one (or several) of the following issues:

  • Your supply valve, or fill valve is loose.
  • The bolts and nuts that connect the tank to other components of the toilet aren’t secure enough.
  • The leaking toilet tank has been damaged.
  • The flapper isn’t shutting properly over the valve’s seat, which causes the valve flush to spill to the inside of the bowl.

If you’re looking to repair the leak yourself, you should take the time to examine each aspect of the toilet which includes the toilet, the tank, and the valve for the water supply line. Sometimes, a toilet that leaks is fixed by tightening the nuts and bolts. In other cases, however, it is necessary to take the whole toilet.

A toilet leak could turn into a major issue. Leaks of water can cause damage to your bathroom or the rooms below. A bathroom that is flooded is also a magnet for insects. The damage caused by water along with the water that is wasted over time could become an expensive problem in the course of time.

In the event that you do not have all the tools to fix a leaky toilet or aren’t certain of the source of the leak, consult an expert plumber to have assurance. Simple errors, like tightening bolts to the wrong degree or not being able to spot holes in your tank could cause more harm and cause unnecessary problems. A professional can accurately assess and swiftly solve the issue with the assurance that you’ll get back to using the toilet within a matter of minutes.

If you’ve had an understanding of plumbing issues and choose to DIY option This blog post will provide details on the most common issues with toilets.

Why Does a Toilet Leak When Flushed?

Why Does a Toilet Leak When Flushed?

We’ve listed a few of the most common ways that toilets leak during flushing but the reason for the leak can reveal much about the issue.

Is the bathroom leaking from its bottom every time you flush?

If yes you’re experiencing this, it could be due to an issue with bolts that are loose. It could happen when you’ve recently put in the commode or had it repaired. It’s also common for bolts on toilets to be loose after people sit on their seats.

Wax rings may dry up and cause toilets to leak out of the base. But are you certain that the leak comes at the base, and not from higher up?

Water flows downwards when there is an open leak, therefore the bowl or toilet tank could be at fault. Whatever the cause you need to identify the leak and repair it.

How To Fix a Toilet Leaking at the Base When Flushed Step-By-Step

How To Fix a Toilet Leaking

If there is a bathroom that moves while you sit, and then is leaking out from its bottom it could need to tighten the bolts on the tank.

Take the caps on the toilets from both sides of your commode by using the help of a putty knife, if required.

If they appear loose, just tighten them “evenly” and be careful not to tighten too much. Test the toilet flush. If there isn’t any leak then you’ve done a good job.

If the problem isn’t with the bolts, get an assistant at the time to empty the toilet and take this from your floor.

Step 1: Shut off the Water Supply Valve

Find the shutoff water supply valve of your toilet, and turn off the water supply line. It should be located behind the commode in the wall, and it should be easy to turn. If it’s not do not force it, but take a few of WD-40.

Step 2: Empty the Toilet and Tank

Take off the toilet tank lid and flush it. As you can see, the tank isn’t able to fill back up. However, you can push the lever to get as much of the water out.

Put on your gloves, and then use the sponge to drain any water left in the toilet tank. Then, squeeze it into your container or bucket. The same procedure can be used to get rid of any remaining water within the bowl of your toilet.

Step 3: Remove the Water Supply Line

Did you remember the valve that was closed? Now, you must disconnect the hose that is running through the valve to the tank of your toilet.

It should be possible you loosen the bolt connecting a supply pipe to fill the valve using your hands. Make use of the adjustable wrench and a rag to shield the nut made of plastic when it’s tight.

Step 4: Remove the Toilet Tank

If you own a single-piece toilet, it is possible to skip toward the section that follows. If not, you can loosen your tank’s bolts that hold it in place with an adjustable wrench.

A ratchet fitted with the correct size socket can speed the process up, but be sure that all nuts have been taken off.

With assistance, remove the tank from the bowl, then place it aside. We suggest placing it on a towel to keep the bathroom floor and tank secure.

Step 5: Loosen Toilet Bolts

Make use of a putty knife to take off the cap covers for bolts from the toilet. They aren’t easy to remove, but this article will teach you how to remove them safely and replace them in the event that yours are worn.

The nuts that hold the tank together should loosen with the help of a wrench. If they’re not and tight, loosen them by using WD-40.

Step 6: Remove the Toilet Bowl

Removing the bowl is another procedure that could require assistance particularly if you plan to remove the toilet from the bathroom for a short period of time.

Begin by securing the toilet to your body and gently rock it side-to-side to crack sealing around its bottom. If you have caulking using a putty knife, you can use it to take it out. When it’s gone, grab the rag and throw it inside the drainpipe in order to stop smells from the sewer from entering your home.

Set your toilet sideways, and take off any residue left from the wax ring that is on the toilet. Repeat the process to eliminate any grease from the area surrounding the drainage pipe.

Step 7: Inspect the Flange

If the flange appears to be in good condition without obvious cracks or damages then you’re in good shape and you can skip to the next section of our guide. In the event that your floor bolts or flange are worn out or appear as if they may require replacement this is the right time to get it done.

Toilet bolts are straightforward to change, however, the closet flange is difficult to deal with. It’s because they may be joined or even connected to the pipe which makes them almost impossible to remove from tight quarters.

This is a problem for homes with older plumbing and that’s why you’ll need to contact a plumber, at least if you’ve got a pipe that is easy to take off with a few screws.

If so you should comply with the steps below to take out and set up an entirely brand new toilet faucet.

Step 8: Replace the Wax Ring

After you’ve got the flange free and the wax ring clear of debris Now it’s time to replace the rings and take out anything that had to remove to prevent the drain from draining. It’s essential that the old wax ring has been taken off prior to installing an ideal wax seal.

The rings are available in 3 and 4 inches depending on the dimensions of your drain pipe and two different thicknesses. If your toilet’s faucet is recessed, then you might require a more substantial ring than the standard.

It is possible to install the ring simply by putting it on the flange, or at the bowl’s bottom as illustrated in the video to the left.

Step 9: Reseat the Toilet & Attach the Tank

After the wax ring is set, it’s now time to replace the toilet. Take the toilet out and put it over the flange, with the bolt holes aligned against the bowl.

Make sure you press down hard on the bowl to secure the ring in place and form an airtight seal however, do not move or tilt your toilet sideways or sideways.

After the toilet is set Remove the nuts that you took out of your toilet and then place them back on the bolts. Then tighten them until they’re tight. Utilize your wrench for tightening each side, switching every couple of turns until it’s snug and secure.

It is necessary to replacement of the tank in the same way that you removed it in the case of two-piece toilets. Be sure that the tank-to-bowl gasket is securely attached and then screw the washers and bolts in the appropriate position. Place the tank in the bowl’s holes and then gently place it in the bowl.

The tank bolts should be tightened like you tightened your toilet bolts. Make sure you get an even, perfect fitting till the tank has been secured securely in position.

Step 10: Test for Leaks

Once you’re sure that the toilet has been correctly installed as well as the tank has been in place for use, you can connect to the line that supplies it. Simply connect the supply line to the fill valve at the side of the tank. Then put the nut in place until it’s secure.

Switch on the water by the flush valve for supply behind the toilet gradually and let the tank of the toilet fill up. Clean the toilet, and examine the bottom to look for leaks. Take a couple of minutes, and flush a few times however, be sure to watch the supply line connection as well as the place that the tank connects to the bowl of a two-piece commode.

If you do not see any water on the floor surrounding the bowl, scrub the area using a bathroom cleaner, and relax in your leak-free toilet.

Toilets Leak From The Tank After Flushing

Toilets Leak From The Tank After Flushing

If it is determined that the bolts and the ring aren’t the cause of leaks that occur after flushing, then it is possible that water could be coming into the tank. Two areas could be the cause of the issue:

Gasket

If you notice water leaks out of the toilet bowl and tank, after flushing the toilet, this is likely to be a damaged gasket. If you want to replace it and check for wear, when needed, you’ll require removing the tank. Due to the tank’s weight and how difficult it is to remove it It is recommended that you hire another person who can assist with this job.

  • Shut off the water supply then flush your tank with any liquid. Be sure to remove any remaining water by making use of an old sponge.
  • The house carries water from the tank and connects it to the bowl.
  • Remove the bolts that join the bowl and tank together. They are behind the toilet.
  • Lift the toilet tank up and put it onto the ground.
  • When the gasket appears to be dry and showing cracks that aren’t too large it is time to replace it. However, if not, your issue lies elsewhere.
  • Take off the gasket that was used. Don’t throw it away because you’ll use it to reference later when you go to a hardware shop to purchase the new one. The new model will appear somewhat smaller, but that’s normal as the old one was stretched out.
  • Install the new gasket in the correct place, and then put everything back in the same way as it was. Be cautious not to tighten them too much the bolts.

Lines For Water Supply

Lines For Water Supply

The water could be flowing into the supply line via the fittings or tiny holes that have formed in the course of time. Cut a small amount of toilet paper and then run it through the supply line for water. Look for areas that are damp. It is better to use toilet paper since it’s easy to determine whether it’s wet. In other cases, it’s difficult to know whether you are actually feeling water or feeling the freezing cold. In the end, it’s filled with cold water.

If you notice leaks coming from the fittings, make sure to tighten them slowly using the wrench. Don’t overdo it, since it can cause more damage later.

If you discover leaks in the line then you’re better off replacing the line completely before the leak becomes more severe and leads to flooding.

Look also – How To Turn Off Water To Toilet – The Best Tips 2022

Toilet Leaks Only When Flushed Conclusions

If, after all this, you are still unable to pinpoint the cause of the leak when your toilet flushes, it might be time to seek the assistance of a professional. Fantastic Services works with excellent plumbers who have a lot of knowledge and are fully prepared to deal with any leaks. The toilet that is leaking is going to be spotless when the experts handle it.

Toilet Leaks When Flushed FAQs

Why does toilet leak between tank and bowl?

In this kind of issue, the problem is caused by the bowl-to-tank gasket. Make sure that the tank and bowl are in touch with the ridge. Then tighten the wing nuts until the tank and the bowl meet. Make sure you place the gasket made of a sponge prior to placing the tank into the bowl.

How do I know if my toilet flange is leaking?

There are signals: Any leak coming from the inside of the bathroom, the smell is unpleasant, a toilet that is loose that moves or sways.

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