- 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
1. Toilet supply line
The supply line is what supplies water to your toilet.
That may seem like an oversimplified 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.
If your toilet is overflowing - SHUT OFF THE TOILET SUPPLY LINE IMMEDIATELY. Here's a short video to show how it works
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. Watch the video here.
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.
2. Check the connections
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Make sure connections are secure
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Hand tighten first, then tighten an extra 2/3 of a turn with pliers
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Be sure not to over tighten - Metal fittings can break plastic fittings if you tighten too much.
3. Turn Valves to prevent sticking
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We recommend checking all the supply lines in your home twice a year.
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Turning the valves ensures they can be shut off in case of an emergency. (ex: your toilet starts flooding) Watch the video here.
4. Solution
Need a new supply line?
If you are in need of a new supply line, we recommend using a licensed plumber
If you are the DIY type, we found this article helpful
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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