Checking for Toilet Leaks in the Tank

• Toilet leaks from the water supply line require shutting off the water to the toilet and tightening or replacing the flexible water inlet line. Tighten or replace the water line and turn the water back on. Check for drips; use caution not to overtighten the nuts or allow the wrench or pliers to damage them.
  
  Visually inspect the water supply tank for condensation on the exterior of the tank. Condensation is usually a signal that the internal parts of the tank are allowing a continuous flow of water into the tank. This can be traced to a worn flapper, gasket under the flush valve, or a crack in the overflow tube. Put a few drops of food coloring in the tank to check for water constantly flowing into the bowl.
  
  Check the tank for cracks and leaks on the bottom section of the tank at the bolts that attach the tank to the bowl.
  
  

Checking for Leaks in Toilet Bowl

• Inspect the toilet bowl for cracks and check that the bowl does not rock on the floor. A rocking bowl usually denotes a broken flange or loose bolts that fasten the bowl to the flange. Water flowing onto the floor from beneath the toilet bowl base denotes a damaged wax ring.
  
  

Repairing Toilet Bowl Leaks

• Turn off the water to the toilet and flush to remove as much water as possible from the bowl. Wear rubber gloves and remove the balance of the water remaining with rags. Loosen the bolts at the base of the bowl that attach to the floor flange. Lift the toilet up and place in a large pan to contain any remaining drips. Remove the wax ring with a putty knife and dispose of it. Inspect the flange for rusted areas or breakage. Install a new flange if necessary and replace the wax ring. Set the toilet bowl back in place and tighten the bolts. Turn on the water and check for leaks on the floor. If leaks persist, the wax ring is not seated properly or was damaged when placing the toilet bowl back in place.