If you spot water around your toilet, identify the source as soon as possible. A leak will not only drive up your utility costs but may also require professional toilet repair. Here’s how you can tell what’s going on and when to hire a plumbing contractor for repair or removal.

How to Determine the Source of a Toilet Leak

Water around the toilet may suggest that it’s coming directly from the base. This isn’t always the case, so you’ll need to assess the fixture carefully. Begin by checking the wax ring that secures the toilet to the floor. If it appears wrinkled, shriveled, or otherwise compromised, water could be seeping out.

Another culprit could be the feed line, the tube that attaches to the tank from the wall. If this line is damaged, water could leak from the shut-off valve and spread around the toilet’s base. If the toilet is especially old, the porcelain could even be cracked. In that situation, even the most hairline fractures could cause water to slowly sleep out and around the toilet.

Hiring a Plumber for Toilet Removal

No matter the cause, it is always safer to have a plumber handle a toilet repair. In many cases, the entire structure may need to be removed. For example, to put down a new wax seal, the toilet will need to be entirely detached. If damaged porcelain is the culprit, you’ll need to purchase a replacement for the plumber to install.

Toilets are very heavy, and you risk suffering an injury if you aren’t trained to work with them. Porcelain is also a very delicate and often brittle material that could break if handled incorrectly. A professional will take a deeper look at the area underneath the toilet to ensure that there are no other problems present, like hidden water damage. Once the repairs are complete, your plumber will have the expertise to reinstall the toilet back to a perfectly level position.

If you need a reliable plumber for toilet repairs, turn to AAA Plumbing Repair Service in Daleville, VA. Proudly serving Roanoke residents since 1976, this family-owned company offers a variety of plumbing services to ensure that your system runs efficiently year-round. Visit the website for more information, or call (540) 344-6800 to schedule an appointment.