Everyone has experienced that that shock when a bill was higher than expected. Unlike other bills, where the trouble is easy to track down, waters bills are tricky. If you can’t see the leak or hear the water running it is difficult to tell if water is moving. Finding plumbing services in coomera can be very handy in such times.
Find the Leak
When you want to find a leak in a household toilet there are several steps to go through for a thorough examination. The first step is the easiest, look all around the outside of the toilet for any leaks or cracks. Pay special attention to the bottom of the tank in the back of the toilet. As you look over the toilet, don’t confuse condensation with a leak. Since toilets are generally cold to the touch water will condense on them on hot or humid days. This is normal and is not indicative of a leak.
If you don’t find any cracks or leaks then it’s time to check the inside of the toilet. Before you can check for leaks you will need to remove any persistent toilet cleaners that color the water. After you remove them flush the toilet a few times until the water in the tank and the bowl are completely clear. Put some food coloring in the tank of the toilet until the water is a noticeably different color. If the tank is leaking water into the bowl then the coloring will slowly move from the tank and color the water in the bowl. Unless the leak is really bad, this process will take a while generally one to two hours. During this time it is important that nobody flushes the toilet, otherwise you need to start over.
Fixing the Leak
If you found a leak then the next step is to fix it. There are many things that cause toilets to leak and most of them are easy and inexpensive to fix. These all take place in the back of the toilet; remember that the water back there is as clean as the water from your household facet.
- The Float – The float needs to sit properly or the refill valve will never turn off. Check the float for holes and its connecting arm for bends. If the float seems damaged in anyway or is taking on water then replace it.
- Refill Valve – Look all around the refill valve for any cracks or mineral buildup. If necessary, clean or replace the valve.
- The Chain – The chain connects the handle to the flapper on the bottom of the toilet. If the chain is twisted or damaged then the seal at the bottom of the tank is left open and water will run through.
- Flush Valve – The flush valve is the opening at the bottom of the toilet tank. Check the rubber gasket around the opening for wear or cracks. If the rubber begins to break down it won’t seal with the flapper properly.
If none of these seem to be the problem but you still suspect your toilet or you found a crack or hole during the toilet’s inspection then it’s time to call a professional. The money saved through the lower water bill will likely pay for the visit in a few months.
Your Toilet and You
Most household toilets will operate for years without incident but when they go, they make it known through sky high water bills. With occasional examination, a little know-how and some attention the life of a home toilet can go on and on.
In addition to checking for leaks there are many other simple toilet repairs you can check out or take a look at how a home toilet works for more general information.