Toilet Leak Detection Tablets
A single toilet leak can waste almost 22,000 gallons of water annually. Wasting water is not only bad for the environment, but also difficult on the pockets, as it leads to increased water bills. Thus, it is only smart to regularly check the toilets for leaks. Frequently checking for toilet leaks conserves both water and energy. If toilets are allowed to leak continuously, they may lead to structural damage on the floor at the base of the toilet.
The cause of a toilet leak may be a damaged flapper or ball, hole or crack in the over-flow tube, worn out ballcock, or a damaged gasket under the flush valve. Toilet leaks can be both obvious and silent. Silent leaks are not always obvious and often go undetected. These leaks can be found by using the toilet-leak detection tablets. To use the tablets effectively, follow the steps mentioned below.
Step-by-Step Guide on Using Tablets
Step 1 - Dry
It is important to ensure all exterior surfaces of the toilets are dry. Use a dry cloth to clean the surface properly.
Step 2 - Remove Lid
Remove the tank lid and carefully set it aside.
Step 3 - Remove Cleaners
Remove all in-tank cleaners.
Step 4 - Add Dye
Add the dye tablet to the tank. Do not flush the toilet bowl for at least half an hour.
Step 5 - Wait and Check
After about 30 minutes, check the toilet bowl for traces of any color from the tablet.
If you see color, the toilet is leaking, and immediate action must be taken to amend one or more of the mechanisms inside. This is because a properly working toilet would store water in the tank until it is flushed with the handle. A proper toilet will not let the water run into the bowl unnecessarily.
Another Test
To know which part of the toilet bowl has resulted in the leaking, conduct another simple test. Use a pencil to draw a line on the back wall of the tank and on the inside of the tank at the waterline. Turn the water supply off and wait for 30 minutes. If the water level remains at the mark made by the pencil, the leak is occurring at the refill valve. The refill valve is located on the left side of the tank. If the water level falls below the mark made by the pencil, the leak is due to the flush valve. The flush valve is located at the center of the tank.
Most of the tablets available in the market are FDA-certified. Read the labels before buying one. These are non-carcinogenic pigments, effervescent, and non-toxic when used in bathrooms. Moreover, they are not harmful if swallowed by small children or pets. The tablets are packaged in moisture-resistant packs with proper instructions on them. The tablets leave no stains on the surface of the tank or the toilet bowl.
