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Leaking and Blocked Toilets

DIY Fixes for a Leaking or Blocked Toilet

How to Fix a Leaking or Blocked Toilet Before Calling a Plumber

 A leaking or blocked toilet is a common household issue that can cause water damage, foul odours, and plumbing inefficiencies. While some problems require professional repair, many toilet leaks and clogs can be temporarily or permanently fixed with simple DIY techniques. 

At Pinnacle Plumbing, we understand that not every plumbing issue requires a call to a professional—especially if you have the right tools and knowledge. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to stopping leaks, clearing minor blockages, and preventing further damage before calling a plumber.

DIY Fixes for a Leaking Toilet

A leaking toilet can waste litres of water per day, leading to higher water bills and potential floor damage. Addressing leaks early prevents further complications and saves money.

🛠 1. Fixing a Running Toilet

A constantly running toilet means that water continues flowing into the bowl even after flushing. This is usually caused by a faulty flapper valve or misadjusted chain.

🔍 Signs of a Running Toilet:

✔ The toilet keeps making a hissing sound even after flushing.

✔ Water continues to trickle into the bowl.

✔ Your water bill is higher than usual.

🛠 How to Fix It:

1️⃣ Remove the tank lid and check the flapper valve—this rubber seal should close properly after each flush.

2️⃣ Inspect the flapper chain—if it’s tangled or too short, adjust or replace it to ensure the

flapper seals correctly.

3️⃣ If the flapper is worn out, replace it with a new rubber seal.

4️⃣ Test the flush to ensure the problem is resolved.

💡 Pro Tip: If replacing the flapper doesn’t work, you may need to replace the fill valve as well.

Blocked Toilet Before Calling a Plumber

💦 2. Fixing a Leak at the Toilet Base

A leak at the toilet base can cause serious water damage to floors and subflooring if left unaddressed.

🔍 Signs of a Base Leak:

✔ Water pools around the toilet base after flushing.

✔ There’s a musty smell near the toilet.

✔ The toilet wobbles slightly when you sit on it.

🛠 How to Fix It:

 1️⃣ Check for loose bolts at the toilet base and tighten them carefully—do not overtighten, as this may crack the porcelain.

2️⃣ If the leak persists, replace the wax ring underneath the toilet. This requires removing the toilet and installing a new seal.

3️⃣ If the toilet rocks, apply a small amount of plumber’s putty under the base to stabilize it.

🚨 If the leak continues after these steps, call a professional plumber—you may have a hidden pipe leak.


drain the tank

🌊 3. Fixing a Leak Between the Tank and Bowl

A leak between the tank and bowl is usually caused by worn-out washers or loose bolts.

🔍 Signs of a Tank-to-Bowl Leak:

✔ Water drips down the back of the toilet.

✔ The tank wobbles slightly when touched.

🛠 How to Fix It:

1️⃣ Turn off the water supply to the toilet and flush to drain the tank.

2️⃣ Check the tank bolts and tighten them evenly to prevent leaks.

3️⃣Replace worn-out rubber washers before reassembling.  

🚨 If tightening the bolts doesn’t work, call a professional plumber for an inspection.

DIY Fixes for a Blocked Toilet

A blocked toilet can be messy, inconvenient, and frustrating. Before calling a plumber, try these safe and effective DIY unclogging methods.

🚽 1. Using a Plunger

A plunger is the fastest and easiest way to clear most toilet clogs.

🛠 How to Use a Plunger Effectively:

1️⃣ Ensure the plunger completely covers the drain hole.

2️⃣ Push down gently, then pull up sharply to create suction.

3️⃣ Repeat for 15-30 seconds until the blockage clears.

💡 Pro Tip: If your toilet frequently clogs, you may have an underlying drain issue.

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🔧 2. Baking Soda & Vinegar Method

A natural solution for dissolving minor clogs without harsh chemicals.

🛠 How to Use This Method:

1️⃣ Pour 1 cup of baking soda into the toilet bowl.

2️⃣ Add 2 cups of white vinegar—the mixture will start fizzing.

3️⃣ Let it sit for 30 minutes, then flush with hot water.

🚨 If the clog persists, avoid using chemical drain cleaners and call a plumber instead.


chemical drain cleaners
blocked toilets and drains

🛠 3. Using a Drain Snake (Plumber’s Auger)

For tougher blockages, a plumber’s auger can reach deep into pipes.

🛠 How to Use a Drain Snake:

1️⃣ Insert the auger into the drain and rotate it slowly.

2️⃣ Once resistance is felt, pull out the obstruction.

3️⃣ Flush the toilet to clear any remaining debris.

🚨 If you frequently need a drain snake, your plumbing system may have a deeper issue requiring professional attention.

Preventing Future Toilet Leaks & Blockages

Regular maintenance can help prevent major toilet problems. Follow these best practices to keep your plumbing system in top shape:

✔ Only flush toilet paper – Avoid flushing wet wipes, sanitary products, grease, and other non-degradable items.

✔ Inspect your toilet tank regularly – Check for worn-out parts, leaks, and running water.

✔ Schedule routine drain cleaning – Prevents buildup that leads to recurring blockages.

✔ Check water pressure – High water pressure can damage pipes and seals over time.

✔ Avoid excessive toilet paper usage – Too much toilet paper can clog the pipes, especially in older plumbing systems.

📞 Still dealing with a leaking or blocked toilet? Call Pinnacle Plumbing today for expert repairs!

Final Thoughts: When to Call a Professional Plumber

If DIY methods don’t resolve the issue, or if leaks keep returning, it’s best to call a licensed professional plumber.

🚨 Pinnacle Plumbing is available 24/7 for fast, expert toilet repairs, leak detection, and drain clearing.

💡 Why Choose Us?

✔ 24/7 Emergency Service—Available day or night.

✔ Advanced Drain Inspection Tools—We use CCTV cameras and hydro-jetting.

✔ Licenced & Insured Plumbers—Our team is certified for all toilet repairs.

✔ Upfront Pricing—No Hidden Fees—Honest, affordable service.

📞 Don’t let a minor toilet issue turn into a major plumbing disaster—Call Pinnacle Plumbing today! 🚽

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