Toilet leaks are always disturbing, especially for homeowners who may wonder “Why is my toilet leaking at the base?” Leaks can easily destroy precious items and when left to linger, running water can cause much bigger problems. Luckily, having top-rated plumbers in Salem, MA at your disposal can promptly help you get to the bottom of the issue.
While sink leaks are their own brand of hassle, toilet leaks can often be more problematic. After all, toilets are necessary daily appliances and many homes have only one available for use. Unlike sink pipes, which the average homeowner often knows how to turn off, the toilet may be more difficult to contend with on your own.
How To Identify If Your Toilet Is Leaking at the Base in Salem, MA
Many times the source of the leak is from the base of the toilet. This is different from a running toilet. When a toilet runs, it keeps filling up with clean water inside the toilet. When you have a toilet base leak, the water comes out of the toilet and into your floor when you flush.
Identifying toilet base leaks is not always easy, but you may notice that water is surrounding your toilet and there is no visible dripping. Sometimes condensation can appear outside the bottom half of the toilet bowl and slowly drip down the sides. This isn’t toilet base water seepage.
If you aren’t sure, one way to figure it out is to wipe down the bowl and the floor to remove any water. Then flush the toilet. If toilet base leakage is the cause, water will pool again rather quickly around the perimeter of the toilet after a flush.
Why Your Toilet Is Leaking at the Base in Salem, MA
If you’re asking, “Why is my toilet leaking at the base?” there may be a few different causes at play. The causes of toilet base leakage typically revolve around the seal between the toilet and the floor. There are two main ways the seal can be compromised.
- Faulty wax ring: One of the main reasons for a toilet base leak is that the wax ring, which should provide a waterproof seal between the food and the perimeter of the base of the toilet, is faulty. Though a properly installed wax ring can last and should last as long as the toilet does, it may have been improperly sealed.
- Deteriorated wax ring: The wax ring may also not be the best quality and deteriorated or even dried out. In these cases, you will need a new wax ring placed. This will involve removing your toilet and realigning it to the waste pipe. Consequently, it is not a job for a typical homeowner and not the time to delve into DIY plumbing.
- Tee bolts: Another cause is when the two tee bolts are not properly secured. The tee bolts are the two bolts found on either side of the toilet. They are typically covered with caps.
Consequences of Toilet Base Leaks
Salem, MA, residents should know that in addition to the water destroying your bathroom floor and personal items, there is an added layer of concern when it comes to toilets leaking at the base.
- Sewer water: The toilet is connected to the sewer. Since the water leaks out after a flush, the water that leaks onto your bathroom surfaces contains the waste from the toilet as well as possible sewer water. This is a major health concern. You may even be able to smell the sewer when your toilet base is leaking.
- Contaminated water: The contaminated water can not only seep into your flooring and permanently ruin it, but it can also leak into the structure downstairs. That can be a disaster for an upstairs bathroom as it can damage and pollute the ceiling of the floor underneath.
- Illness: Contaminated wastewater from a toilet can cause illnesses, including gastroenteritis, diarrhea, and dysentery.
Get Your Toilet Base Leak Repaired in Salem, MA Today!
Spencer Home Services has over four decades of experience installing and repairing toilets. We will inspect your toilet leak to confirm why your toilet is leaking at the base and promptly repair it. We can also install a new toilet if necessary.
Don’t suffer with a toilet leak or a constantly running toilet! Spencer Home Services is here to answer your questions and serve you. Contact us for a professional inspection to identify and solve the cause of toilet base leakage. Call us today at 978-293-5770 for same-day service.
