The main advantage of tape is that it won't smear onto your hands or tools and end up on the carpet. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. Then loosen the setscrew with a quick yanking motion. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
\n<\/p>
\n<\/p><\/div>"}, {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/fa\/Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-2-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-2-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/fa\/Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-2-Version-2.jpg\/aid1804566-v4-728px-Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-2-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"
\u00a9 2021 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. All the nuts need to be tightened back and forth to keep the tank balanced. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. Silicone caulk is a safer, longer-lasting sealant in most areas where you might use plumber's putty. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
\n<\/p>
\n<\/p><\/div>"}, {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/40\/Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-16-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-16-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/4\/40\/Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-16-Version-2.jpg\/aid1804566-v4-728px-Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-16-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"
\u00a9 2021 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. You can buy a new flush valve for around $20. Just disconnect the supply line and install the new valve (a new supply line is a good idea, too). For best results, use a sharpie; a pencil mark will work, but it may be washed away if the water rises. Thank you! This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. Then flush the toilet. The solution is to heat the joint and pull off the fitting as the solder melts. Getting the metal hot enough can take a couple of minutes. Learn how to keep your kids safe from Internet predators. By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy. Remove the old wax that sealed the toilet to the flange and pipe with a putty knife. Otherwise, the tape will unwrap as you screw the joint together. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
\n<\/p>
\n<\/p><\/div>"}, {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/ec\/Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-9-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-9-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/ec\/Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-9-Version-2.jpg\/aid1804566-v4-728px-Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-9-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"
\u00a9 2021 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. Luckily, once you know how to determine the cause of the leak, itâs a straightforward process to fix your leaky toilet tank. You can buy a ⦠You may need to replace the inside system of the tank or just the ballcock. Plumbers Putty This is a must have for your plumbing arsenal - sealing tub drains, sink drains, pipes, so many things - works great, easy to roll out and works great, cant say how important this putty is to have on hand wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. Two 5lb. I just installed a brand new toilet and everything seemed to be working well until about an hour later. Be sure to wait at least 10 minutes so that the water in the tank will completely change color. Use it on compression fittings, ground fittings and rubber seals. In either case, there's an alternative to replacing the shutoff. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. Please consider supporting our work with a contribution to wikiHow. References. How do l install a ball assembly in a toilet? Repairs cracks, splits and holes. The locknut is most likely located right next to the supply tube. Despite the name, lots of plumbers never use plumber's putty. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. Is it just as simple as tightening the nut? This article was co-authored by our trained team of editors and researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness. Sometimes they won't close completely; sometimes they won't close at all. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
\n<\/p>
\n<\/p><\/div>"}. Depending on your toilet model, the supply tube will either be a long, rigid pipe or a short tube connected to the water supply shutoff valve. By using this service, some information may be shared with YouTube. What do I do if my toilet tank is not filling up with water? This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
\n<\/p>
\n<\/p><\/div>"}, {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/54\/Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-6-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-6-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/54\/Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-6-Version-2.jpg\/aid1804566-v4-728px-Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-6-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"
\u00a9 2021 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. If you remove the fill valve with water still in the bottom of the tank, that water will fall out of the hole where the fill valve used to be and end up on the bathroom floor. Putty knives are basic tools, but what sets the Craftsman apart is a comfortable handle, a stainless blade, and a metal butt end that can tap the lid down on a can of wood filler. Never did it before, but I had it right in my head. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. Whether water is leaking into the bowl or onto the floor, some plumbing work will be required to fix it. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. It kept the connections sealed and made sure nothing ever loosened up. Last Updated: November 13, 2020 If it moves easy and you do not see the washer squeeze out or a break in the washer, simply tighten the nut underneath the tank. Because it's slippery, it allows connections to slide together correctly for a good seal. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. "This let me know I'm not crazy lol! The tank will now only have a couple inches of water. If the water level has gone up, check to see if thereâs any water in the overflow tube. What Is Plumbersâ Putty? Simply scrape it off and smear it on the newspaper until you can access the top of the flange. Fills and seals extensive damages where water may leak. I got brand new washers, nuts, bolts and gasket. God bless you people!". Shutoff valves under sinks and toilets have a rotten reliability record. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
\n<\/p>
\n<\/p><\/div>"}, {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/2d\/Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-3-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-3-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/2d\/Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-3-Version-2.jpg\/aid1804566-v4-728px-Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-3-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"
\u00a9 2021 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. This item: ... Only negative thing is that I did use plumbers putty instead of the included gasket. It's cheaper, easier to install, and easier to adjust or tighten if a leak develops. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. Thread sealant (aka 'pipe dope') is formulated to seal threads. Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 347,266 times. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. Nowadays, putty is not as popular as it was decades ago. Unlike dope, tape is for pipe threads only. Despite the name, lots of plumbers never use plumber's putty. It sounds like you have one side tighter than the other. Buy new lines that are encased in braided stainless steel; they're much less likely to burst. We've been helping billions of people around the world continue to learn, adapt, grow, and thrive for over a decade. The best way to disconnect a soldered pipe is to cut it. My toilet is still leaking! wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer). If it isnât gone, check to make sure the leak isnât coming from somewhere else. Nails ($2 - $6) are cheap and can be sized to fit the dimensions of your project material. The high-quality, hot-forged steel jaws ⦠But with the arrival of COVID-19, the stakes are higher than ever. A new wax ring will probably fix it, but this requires completely removing the toilet. Cheap tape works fine, but the thicker stuff (often pink for water, yellow for gas) is easier to handle and tears more neatly. It's a small risk, but not one worth taking. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. But it works! What else can I do to fix it? This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. What can you do about a leak from the overflow? This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
\n<\/p>
\n<\/p><\/div>"}, {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f6\/Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-7-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-7-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/f6\/Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-7-Version-2.jpg\/aid1804566-v4-728px-Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-7-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"
\u00a9 2021 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. Where the screws/nuts attach the tank to the bowl is leaking on the left side. Use a hex socket and valve grinding compound to avoid stripping the setscrew. To learn more about how to fix your specific leak, keep reading! Note: Some plumbers will use this opportunity to perform a complete tuneup on the toilet, installing a new fill valve, flush valve, and flapper at the same time they are replacing the wax ring. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
\n<\/p>
\n<\/p><\/div>"}, {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/b8\/Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-21-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-21-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/b8\/Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-21-Version-2.jpg\/aid1804566-v4-728px-Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-21-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"
\u00a9 2021 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. Try to turn the flush valve gently. To fix a leaky toilet, start by running a few simple tests to figure out what's causing the leak. By using our site, you agree to our. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
\n<\/p>
\n<\/p><\/div>"}, {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/bb\/Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-8-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-8-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/bb\/Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-8-Version-2.jpg\/aid1804566-v4-728px-Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-8-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"
\u00a9 2021 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. But overtightening supply lines is actually riskier than undertightening. Tip: Toilets may develop condensation on the exterior of the tank during hot weather or when youâre taking a very hot shower. If they leak, snug them up a little more. In the old days, plumberâs putty was the most common material for fixing drains and pipes with faucets, toilets, and even showers. What to do if water dripping inside the toilet tank is continuing and not stopping? This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
\n<\/p>
\n<\/p><\/div>"}, {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d3\/Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-17-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-17-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/d\/d3\/Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-17-Version-2.jpg\/aid1804566-v4-728px-Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-17-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"
\u00a9 2021 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. Reinstall the disposal and turn the power back on at the service panel. How do I fix it? How many times should you wrap around the pipe? Some types of dope harm plastic parts, so check the label. The tank will now only have a couple inches of water. You can buy a new flush valve at any retailer that sells home improvement supplies. If your sink is made from one of these substances, use silicone sealant instead. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
\n<\/p>
\n<\/p><\/div>"}, {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/97\/Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-19-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-19-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/97\/Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-19-Version-2.jpg\/aid1804566-v4-728px-Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-19-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"
\u00a9 2021 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. When you're replacing a toilet or a faucet, you can save a few bucks by reusing the old flexible supply lines. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. Every dollar contributed enables us to keep providing high-quality how-to help to people like you. Putty Kit - For Leaking Baths and Shower Trays. Heavy Duty Cast Iron Pipe Wrench with 1-1/2 in. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. If the old shutoff closes most of the way, you won't even have to turn off the main water valve; just set a container under the valve to catch the trickle while you work.>. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
\n<\/p>
\n<\/p><\/div>"}, {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/2f\/Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-10-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-10-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/2f\/Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-10-Version-2.jpg\/aid1804566-v4-728px-Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-10-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"
\u00a9 2021 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. If there is still a leak, the washers underneath the bolts in the tank will need to be replaced. We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer) as we strive to provide site experiences for browsers that support new web standards and security practices. A loose connection that leaks is easy to tighten, but overtightening can wreck rubber seals and crack the threaded nuts. Tape and dope are equally reliable for sealing pipe threads. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
\n<\/p>
\n<\/p><\/div>"}, {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/16\/Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-18-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-18-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/1\/16\/Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-18-Version-2.jpg\/aid1804566-v4-728px-Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-18-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"
\u00a9 2021 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. However, it can be prepared by different methods and from various materials. It's tempting to crank supply lines on tight, just to be safe. The system costs around $15 at your local hardware store and is very easy to install. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
\n<\/p>
\n<\/p><\/div>"}, {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/81\/Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-14-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-14-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/81\/Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-14-Version-2.jpg\/aid1804566-v4-728px-Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-14-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"
\u00a9 2021 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. When doing a complete tuneup, it may be easiest to detach the toilet tank from the toilet bowl unit when removing the toilet. There are no rules, but the most common answer we got from pro plumbers was three. Flush valves usually need to be replaced, which you can do easily with a wrench. There are 23 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. Buy the selected items together. When a threaded connection won't budge, heat sometimes does the trick, especially on ancient connections that were sealed with pipe dope that hardened over time. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. Jaw Capacity Husky's 14 in. But it's great for almost any connection, even if the threads don't form the seal. Oscillating or rotary tools work even better. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
\n<\/p>
\n<\/p><\/div>"}, {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/dc\/Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-23-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-23-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/d\/dc\/Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-23-Version-2.jpg\/aid1804566-v4-728px-Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-23-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"
\u00a9 2021 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. You can normally purchase water dye tablets from your local water provider. Before you run a drain snake into a clogged pipe or disassemble the trap, there are a few other tricks worth trying: Often, you can yank out a clog with a flexible-shaft pick-up tool (shown above) or a Zip-It (below). Often, the best solution is to cut the stubborn part. But even if you already have braided lines that are several years old, replace them. Sometimes a quick wipe will leave the pipe ready for a new fitting. Most home centers carry “piggyback” shutoff valves that connect to existing shutoffs. The rubber gasket on my sink was giving me a tiny leak (1-2 drops an hour) so I just took it off and put down the tried and true putty. Try to turn the flush valve gently. Then flush the toilet. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. Plumbers can have strong opinions on this topic, but plumber's putty is generally a good default choice. Plastic degrades over time, and even a small leak can lead to catastrophic water damage. When excess putty oozes out, wipe away the excess. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
\n<\/p>
\n<\/p><\/div>"}, {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/75\/Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-12-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-12-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/75\/Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-12-Version-2.jpg\/aid1804566-v4-728px-Fix-a-Leaky-Toilet-Tank-Step-12-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"
\u00a9 2021 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. And, if you use a type that doesn't harden, disassembly and repair will be easier years later. Unique colour pigment technology producing an INVISIBLE finish If you feel a groove where the O-rings mate to the spout, the faucet is toast. We recommend our users to update the browser. You may need to use a flathead screwdriver to hold the bolts in place as you turn the nuts under the tank. Find out how to open up a stuck cleanout plug, too. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. http://www.planitdiy.com/how-to/plumbing/how-to-replace-a-flush-valve/, http://www.planitdiy.com/how-to/plumbing/how-to-repair-a-leaking-toilet/, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_iOntqeVGOU#t=37s, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vj4TP55-FO0#t=2m4s, http://www.home-repair-central.com/how-to-fix-a-leaking-toilet-tank.html, http://www.planitdiy.com/how-to/plumbing/how-to-replace-a-toilet-fill-valve-video/, arreglar una fuga en el tanque del inodoro, Aggiustare una Cassetta di Scarico del Gabinetto che Perde, Consertar uma Caixa de Descarga com Vazamento, réparer un réservoir des toilettes qui fuit, Please consider supporting our work with a contribution to wikiHow. Plumber's putty as the name reveals it is a compulsory item in any plumber's toolbox.