How to Fix a Leaking Toilet Tank

If your toilet tank is leaking, not only will your toilet not flush properly, you will also be wasting water. Luckily, fixing a leaking toilet tank can be done yourself, and you may not have to rely on a plumbing service specialist. What you will have to do is replace the rubber gaskets present around the tank bolts, as well as the spud washer. This washer can corrode due to hard water and high mineral content, resulting in annoying leaks.

If you have a leaking toilet tank, here is what you have to do to fix it:

Items Required to Fix the Leak

• Screwdriver
• Adjustable wrench
• Small-sized wire brush
• White vinegar
• Sponge
• Rags
• New spud washer
• New tank bolt gaskets

Fixing a Leaking Toilet Tank

Fixing a leaking toilet tank does not take too much effort if you have the right tools and instructions. However, be prepared to spend a couple of hours if you are attempting this for the first time. Also, get a friend or family member to help you out, as it requires two people.

1)      Turn off the Water: Before you address a leaking toilet tank, be sure to turn off the water supply. You will find the shut-off valve just below the tank. Turn it clockwise to stop the inflow of water into the tank.
2)      Empty the Tank: First flush the toilet. This will get rid of the major bulk of water in the tank. However, there still will be some water remaining in the tank. This is when you use the sponge to soak up the water. The toilet tank has to be completely empty to fix the leak.
3)      Undo the Tank Bolt Nuts: After you empty out the tank, use your hands to find the nuts located on underside of the toilet tank. Hold one nut with the help of the adjustable wrench. Then, with the help of your screwdriver, undo the tank bolt, which will be located inside the tank. Use this process to remove both nuts and bolts. Set them aside safely but keep them in sight.
4)      Take Out the Spud Washer: Once you finish unscrewing the bolt nuts, gently lift the tank and lay it on the floor. Use the adjustable wrench again to remove the spud washer. The washer could be tight because of the water, but with the wrench you should have no problem turning and removing it.

5)      Replace the Washer: Place the new washer onto the spud nut and tighten it.
6)      Replace the Gaskets of the Tank Bolts: Take your small-sized wire brush to gently scrape the old gasket remnants off the tank. Use it both inside and outside. Clean the surface completely, so that it is even and clear for the new gaskets. Now replace the new gaskets and fit them properly around the bolts.
7)      Reinstall the Toilet Tank: Put the toilet tank back to its original position; here, you’ll need your assistance to hold the tank while you put back the bolts and nuts. First tighten the bolt manually and then use an adjustable wrench and screwdriver to firmly tighten it. Keep tightening until you can see the gaskets firmly in place. Be a little cautious while tightening the bolts. If you tighten them too much, you could crack the toilet tank and will have to spend money to buy and fix a new one.

For many people, fixing a leaking toilet tank can be a bit too much to handle on their own. That is why you need a licensed and qualified specialist plumbing service. Contact ExpressRooter Plumbing today to fix all types of leaks and plumbing problems. Call us today at 416-760-7656!