The bathroom, with all its plumbing fixtures, is most susceptible to leaks. For this reason, it’s important to keep a close eye on your bathroom fixtures and take quick action. Today, the experts at Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Wichita explains how to spot bathroom leaks and what to do.
Toilet Leaks
A toilet leak can originate from the tank, the bowl, or the base. You can spot a toilet leak by performing a dye test, listening for running water, and checking the base of the toilet. If you suspect water is leaking into the bowl, check the condition of the flapper, as it’s often the culprit. A worn or damaged flapper can allow water to continuously leak from the tank into the bowl, even when the toilet hasn’t been flushed. No matter where the leak is occurring, it’s important to address it as quickly as possible to prevent water waste.
Fixing a leaking toilet in Wichita, KS depends on the cause of the leak. If the culprit behind the leak is a faulty flapper or fill valve, the solution is as simple as replacing the worn-out part with a new one. These are relatively inexpensive and readily available at most hardware stores. If you have a loose connection, tightening the affected fittings may be all that’s needed. For a cracked tank or bowl, you may need to call a professional plumbing repair service for help. If you’re not comfortable with any DIY plumbing repairs, it’s best to leave them to professional plumbers.
Showerhead Leaks
A dripping showerhead is easy to spot because water visibly falling from the fixture is a clear sign of a leak. Even if the drips are small, they are readily apparent to anyone standing near the shower. You should never ignore a leaking showerhead, no matter how minor it seems. The EPA estimates that a showerhead dripping at just 10 drips per minute can waste up to 500 gallons of water per year. Most leaking showerheads can be fixed by tightening connections or replacing worn-out parts. If you don’t have the skills to fix your showerhead, leave the job to a professional plumbing service.
Bathtub Leaks
Bathtub leaks can be tricky because the source isn't always obvious. You can spot a bathtub leak by looking for dampness or water stains on the ceiling below the bathroom, especially after someone takes a shower or bath. Also, check around the bathtub's edges where it meets the wall. If the caulking is cracked or missing, water can seep behind the tub.
If you suspect a bathtub leak, stop using the tub and shower until you've identified the source. If the caulking is the problem, carefully remove the old caulk and reapply a fresh bead of silicone caulk designed for bathrooms. If the grout is cracked, regrout the affected areas. For more extensive leaks or if you suspect a plumbing issue behind the wall, it's best to call a plumber to diagnose and fix the problem.
Faucet Leaks
Faucet leaks are more noticeable than bathtub leaks. Even a small drip can waste a surprising amount of water over time. Check for leaks around the base of the faucet where it meets the countertop. Also, inspect the handles for any signs of leaking, especially when the faucet is in use.
For dripping faucets, try replacing the washer or O-ring. If the leak persists or if it's coming from the handle or base of the faucet, you may need to replace the cartridge or the entire faucet. If you're not comfortable with plumbing repairs, or if the leak is significant, it's always best to call a plumbing repair service. They can quickly diagnose the problem and make the necessary repairs.
Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Wichita is the contractor to call for all of your bathroom plumbing needs. Whether you’ve suspected a water leak in your bathroom or need help with fixture replacement, we are the specialists to call.
