Water leakage is a significant problem in many US homes. “Around 10 percent of US homes have leak problems that waste around 90 gallons of water per day.”
A toilet flapper is an essential element of your toilet. It is responsible for keeping the water in the tank from flowing into the bowl. However, if it starts to leak, it can cause water damage and be very expensive to fix.
This article will discuss what causes a toilet flapper to leak and how to fix toilet flapper leaks.
- The Flapper is Old and Needs to Be Replaced
The flapper is the rubber seal that sits on top of the drain hole in the bottom of the tank. It allows water to flow from the tank into the bowl when you flush. If a flapper is old, it may not be sealing properly, which can cause leaks.
Replacing it is relatively easy and inexpensive, so if you suspect that your flapper is the culprit, it’s worth replacing it to see if that fixes the problem. But, if you’re not sure how to fix them properly, it’s best to leave it to a professional plumber.
- The Chain is Too Short or Too Long
The chain is the crucial link between the flapper and the handle (or trip lever). If it’s too short, the flapper won’t open. As a result, water will constantly run into the bowl. If it’s too long, on the other hand, the chain will get caught on something and prevent the flapper from closing properly. In either case, you’ll end up with a leaky toilet.
One way to tell if the chain is too short or too long is by looking at the water level in the bowl. If it’s higher than usual, that’s an indication that the flapper isn’t closing properly. In that case, you’ll need to adjust the length of the chain.
- The Flapper isn’t Seating Properly Against the Seat
The flapper must form a good seal against the seat to prevent water from leaking out. If it’s not seating correctly, it could be because the chain is short or some obstruction is preventing it from seating correctly.
If your flapper isn’t seating properly, try adjusting the chain or removing any obstructions. This is another way that you can try to fix toilet flapper leaks.
- The Water Level in the Tank is Set Too High
If your toilet flapper is leaking, it might be because the water level in the tank is set too high. When the flapper closes, it doesn’t have enough water to seal correctly, so water leaks around the flapper and into the bowl.
The solution is to adjust the water level in the tank so that it’s about an inch below the overflow tube.
- There is a Crack in the Flapper
Lastly, a crack in the flapper can cause it to leak. Most flappers are made of rubber, and over time, they will get brittle and crack. You can usually tell if there is a crack by holding the flapper up to a light source.
Final Thoughts
If you are unable to make the repair yourself or feel uncomfortable trying, it is essential to contact a professional plumber to look at your toilet flapper and make the necessary repairs. A good plumbing company will have a team of professional plumbers who are more than happy to help you with all your plumbing needs.
