Understanding the Causes of Toilet Base Leaks and How to Fix Them

Toilets are essential sanitary facilities in every household, and leaking toilet bases are a common issue during usage. Leaking at the base of the toilet not only wastes water but can also lead to other problems. Below are the causes and methods for dealing with toilet base leaks.

Causes and Solutions for Leaking Toilet Bases

1、Damaged Seal Ring

Cause:

The connection between the toilet base and the drainage pipe is usually sealed with a rubber seal ring. Over time, due to prolonged use or improper handling, the seal ring may become aged, damaged, or deformed, leading to leaks.

Solution:

Replace the damaged seal ring. First, shut off the water supply and empty the water from the base. Use a wrench to disconnect the nuts at the connection point between the base and the drainage pipe. Remove the damaged seal ring and replace it with a new one. Reinstall the base and ensure that the nuts are tightened securely.

2、Loose Nuts

Cause:

The connection nuts on the toilet base are used to secure the base to the drainage pipe. Due to prolonged use or improper installation, the nuts may loosen over time, leading to leaks.

Solution:

First, shut off the water supply and empty the water from the base. Use a wrench to tighten the connection nuts securely. Make sure the nuts are firmly fixed, but do not over-tighten them to avoid damaging the base or the drainage pipe.

3、Clogged Pipes

Cause:

The drainage pipe from the toilet may not have been cleaned or maintained for a long time, leading to blockages. Accumulated debris or dirt in the pipe can obstruct normal water flow, increasing water pressure and causing water to overflow from the base.

Solution:

Use a professional drain cleaner or a home plunger to clear the blockage. Insert the cleaner or plunger into the toilet's bottom drainage outlet, pushing it deeply into the pipe while rotating it until the obstruction is cleared. If the blockage is severe, it may be necessary to seek professional assistance for further cleaning and maintenance.

4、Uneven Installation of the Toilet Base

Cause:

If the toilet base is not installed properly or not level during the installation process, there may be gaps at the connection between the base and the drainage pipe, resulting in leaks.

Solution:

Check if the toilet base is installed evenly. Use a level to ensure that the base is vertical with the floor. If the base is uneven, it will need to be reinstalled. Loosen all screws, and use plastic or rubber washers to level the base before tightening the screws sequentially. Ensure that the screws are evenly tightened, but do not over-tighten them. Once done, turn the water supply back on and check for any remaining leaks.

Conclusion：

In summary, the causes of leaking toilet bases include damaged seal rings, loose nuts, clogged pipes, and uneven installation. Each issue requires different approaches for resolution, such as replacing the seal ring, tightening nuts, clearing blockages, or reinstalling the base. For more complex situations, it’s advisable to seek help from professionals.