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What to do if Your Toilet is Leaking at the Base

Dior McDonald • Aug 28, 2023

Your Toilet is Leaking at the Base it Could Be a Big Problem

Oh dear. You’ve gone to the loo and noticed a little puddle next to the base of your toilet. If you wipe it up and it reappears after a short while, chances are it’s not a misfire from one of the kids, it’s possibly a toilet leak at the base.

If your toilet is indeed leaking at the base, it is important to take immediate action to prevent further damage and potential water waste. It’s always best to call your local Perth plumber to get onto it ASAP, and in the meantime, you could try and follow some simple steps.

In this article we’ll look at some common causes of a toilet leaking at the base and some ways you can try and fix the issue yourself. (But remember, it is always advisable to get a plumber in to do the job right the first time!)

A photo showcasing a bathroom with a white ceramic toilet. The leak at the base is evident with a small puddle of water, and there's a tool kit and wrench nearby, hinting at an upcoming repair

Common Causes of a Toilet Leak at the Base

Toilet leaks at the base can occur due to various factors. One common cause is a damaged wax ring seal. This seal is situated between the toilet base and the floor drain, and if it becomes worn or broken, water can seep out. Another possible cause is a loose or deteriorated toilet flange, which connects the toilet to the sewer pipe.

In such cases, water can leak out through the base. Additionally, cracks in the toilet bowl or cistern can also lead to leakage. It is important to address these issues promptly to prevent further damage and costly repairs.

How to Fix a Toilet Leak at the Base

Inspect the seal: Check the seal located between the toilet base and the floor. Look for any signs of damage, wear, or gaps.
Tighten the bolts: If the bolts securing the toilet to the floor are loose, use a wrench to gently tighten them. Be cautious not to over-tighten them though and potentially crack the toilet.
Replace the seal: If the seal is damaged or worn out, it needs to be replaced. Turn off the water supply, drain the toilet tank and bowl, and carefully remove the toilet. Replace the old wax seal with a new one and reinstall the toilet properly. This step is almost always best left to a professional - so don’t try it yourself unless you’re 100% confident. You may end up making the problem worse and causing more issues for the plumber to fix.
Check the flange: Inspect the flange, which connects the toilet to the floor drain. Ensure it is securely attached and not cracked or broken. If necessary, replace the flange to create a tight seal. Again - get those professionals in for this one, please!
Test for leaks: After reattaching the toilet, turn on the water supply and allow the tank to fill. Flush the toilet a few times and check for any leaks around the base. If you notice any leaks, repeat the previous steps to resolve the issue fully.

Tip: Regularly inspect the condition of the seal and bolts securing your toilet to the floor to catch any potential leaks early and avoid costly repairs.

An illustrative cross-sectional view of a toilet base, emphasizing the importance of the wax ring seal between the toilet base and the floor drain. This design is intended to be both informative and visually engaging for your readers

Some key points to remember about a leaking toilet:

A common cause of a toilet leak at the base is condensation on the toilet that collects on the floor.
Another reason for a toilet leak at the base could be that the toilet tank and bowl are loose, or there is a cracked or loose O-ring gasket.
A toilet could also be leaking at the base due to a faulty wax ring, loose bolts or gaskets, or a cracked toilet base. Assessing the cause is essential for determining the appropriate repair method.
Toilet bolts can loosen over time, causing the toilet to become loose and leading to a leak at the base.
To fix a toilet leak at the base, you can try tightening the bolts connecting the toilet to the floor or replacing the wax seal underneath the toilet.
Replacing the wax seal requires removing the toilet and positioning a new wax ring onto the flange opening before securing the toilet back in place
When your toilet is leaking at the base, it is important to quickly identify and address the issue to prevent further damage and water wastage. Ignoring a base leak can lead to structural damage and mould growth.

FAQs on What To Do If Your Toilet Is Leaking At The Base

What should I do if my toilet is leaking at the base?

If you notice a leak at the base of your toilet, it's important to take immediate action to prevent further damage. Booking your local Perth plumber in to come and fix it should be your first step, but there are also several steps you can take to further determine the location and casue of the leak.

Why is my toilet leaking at the base?

A toilet leak at the base can occur due to several reasons. Some common causes include condensation on the toilet, loose toilet tank and bowl, and loosening toilet bolts. Understanding the cause will help you determine the appropriate solution.

Can I fix a toilet leak at the base by tightening the toilet bolts?

If the leak is caused by loose toilet bolts, you can try tightening them. Carefully shake the toilet bowl to check for any movement. If it moves, it means the toilet is loose and needs to be tightened. Use a small wrench to tighten the bolts in a clockwise direction.

How do I replace the wax seal if it is causing the toilet to leak at the base?

If the wax seal underneath the toilet has deteriorated and is causing the leak, you will need to replace it. This process involves removing the toilet and replacing the wax seal.

Should I hire a professional to replace the wax seal if my toilet is leaking at the base?

Replacing the wax seal can be a complex task that requires expertise. If you're not confident in your abilities and need professional assistance, call an experienced plumber to take care of it for you.

What can I do to prevent a toilet leak at the base?

To avoid a toilet leak at the base, it's important to take preventive measures. Regularly check and tighten toilet bolts, monitor water supply lines for leaks, and address any condensation issues. Performing routine maintenance can help prevent potential leaks.

So, if you notice your toilet leaking at the base, it’s important to get onto it ASAP. While you can still have a little look yourself and try a few DIY steps, it’s really advisable to get a professional plumber on the case for you.

For toilet leaks and any other plumbing issues you may have in Perth, Lee at MC2 Plumbing can help. Give us a call on 0424 309 622 and we’ll have your toilet back in order in no time.

Lee McDonald at MC2 Plumbing saying 'When you need a reliable, honest Perth plumber who rocks up on time and doesn’t leave a big ol’ mess behind when he leaves, Lee’s your guy.'

The face of MC2 Plumbing, Lee is your friendly, nice-guy-next-door type bloke. Once a professional tap dancer, Lee went from dancing on taps around the world to fixing taps in Perth (with over 20 years in the trade).

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