Checking the Toilet for Leaks and Easy Repairs

Checking the Toilet for Leaks
& Easy Repairs!

The most common toilet leaks can also be the most costly because they represent the greatest water usage in the home. A leaky toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water per day! Left unfixed, you can waste up to 73,000 gallons of water a year. Here are some easy ways to check for and fix a toilet leak:

Remove the top of the tank. Find the overflow tube in the center of the tank. The water level should be approximately one inch below the top of the overflow. If the water is above the overflow, see diagram A for some adjustments options. If the water is just below the top of the overflow, sprinkle some powder on the surface of the water near the overflow. If it disappears down the overflow, see diagram A.

If the water is flowing continually into the overflow pipe, you have a large leak that is difficult to hear, but can be corrected.

diagram A

A. Adjustments Options

1. Bend the end of the float ball rod down, (1)

2. Replace the float ball (2) which may have filled with water, or

3. Replace a faulty or corroded float ball shut-off valve. (3)

It is possible that the rubber tank ball that lifts when you flush (9) is not seating properly and water is running into the bowl and down the sewer. An easy way to test if this is ocurring is simply to put a couple of drops of dark food coloring in the tank. Do not use the toilet. Then check the bowl after 20 minutes. If colored water is in your bowl, you have a leak. Depending on the problem, one of the following can be corrected:

1. Tighten a loose handle (4)

2. Straighten the control arm if it is rubbing. (5)

3. Replace a sticking rod guide (6) or ball rod (7)

4. Clean a corroded valve seat. (8)

5. Replace a faulty tank ball. (9)

Utilities billing address
PO Box 1780
Clearwater Fl 33757-1780

We want to serve you better.
Did you find what you were looking for?
Yes, I found it No, I didn't find it. Help!

For questions about services, e-mail PCU
Customer Service at custsrv@pinellascounty.org
or call at (727) 464-4000

Checking the Toilet for Leaks & Easy Repairs!

Checking the Toilet for Leaks
& Easy Repairs!