plumbing maintenance for homeowners
Plumbing problems can be prevented by regular plumbing maintenance. We recommend checking your home's plumbing at least twice a year.
Home Water Damage Statistics - Toilet Problems
- Toilets are the 2nd leading source of all residential water losses, with supply line failures being the first.
- Water damage from toilets average $2,000-$10,000 per incident.
- 78% of toilet incidents are caused by faulty supply lines, fill valve assemblies, toilet flanges and clogged toilets that overflowed.
*Stats from IBHS Water Damage Studies read more about base leaks here
toilet checklist
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Check supply line connections: make sure they are secure and there is no moisture.
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Turn the stop valve to prevent sticking.
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Make sure the toilet flushes properly without sticking or hanging.
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After flushing the water should fill the tank and stop when the float reaches the fill level.
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Inspect around the base of the toilet for signs of water damage.
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Is your toilet rocking? Rocking toilets lead to broken flanges and seals and eventually a leak.
1. Check the supply line
The supply line is what supplies water to your toilet.
That may seem like an over simplified statement, but we receive calls like this weekly:
Caller: My toilet is overflowing and there is water flooding my bathroom, I need a plumber asap.
KMP: Have you turned off the supply line to the toilet?
Caller: No...
This is a simple step that will help save you from expensive water damage.
Remember, if your toilet is flooding - SHUT OFF THE TOILET SUPPLY LINE FIRST!
To stop the water supply to any one fixture (sink, toilet, washing machine). Turn the stop valve and the supply will be cut off without affecting water supply to other fixtures.
You can find the supply line connection running from the wall to the base of the tank . This is usually a stainless steel braided line, with a plastic or metal nut, that connects to a stop valve. Some older installations have a copper line.
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Check connections: make sure they are secure and there is no moisture.
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Turn the stop valve to prevent sticking.
Read more about toilet supply lines here.
2. Check the flush
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Make sure the toilet flushes properly without sticking or hanging.
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After flushing the water should fill the tank and stop when the float reaches the fill level.
Is your toilet running?
Tank leaks are quiet and are easy to overlook. Read more on flush checks here.
3. Base check
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Inspect around the base of the toilet for signs of water damage. Toilets leaking around the base can cause significant damage to your home's flooring.
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Is your toilet rocking? Rocking toilets lead to broken flanges and seals and eventually a leak.
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Read more about base checks here
Remember
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Plumbing problems can be prevented by regular plumbing maintenance.
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The best way to prevent toilet related water damage - take care of the toilet repair as soon as plumbing problems occur.
DOWNLOAD THE COMPLETE HOME PLUMBING CHECKLIST
Plumbing problems can be so frustrating they can 'drive a preacher to drinkin'. When you realize it's time to call a plumber: how do you know who to call? Do you need a 24-hour plumber ? Before you open your pocket book be sure to do your research and know your plumber. Choosing a reliable plumber: 5 key things...
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