toilet leaking

Richard S · Jan 30, 2006

I installed a Toto Ultramax toilet some months ago. It hasn't gotten much use yet as I've recently just finished the bathroom remodel. The toilet leaks when flushed, but never leaks otherwise. I've got a clear view from below & can see the water leaking when flushed, but never see a single drop any other time. This only seemed to start a short time ago as no one noticed the leak when newly installed.

Would simply replacing the wax ring solve this or does anyone think I've got an issue with the toilet itself.

Thanks

Plumber1 · Jan 31, 2006

Probably. Replace and go look again.....

If it seems wobbly make sure you shim it and grout it to make it secure.....

Sponsor · 2022-01-29T12:20:58-0800

hj · Jan 31, 2006

toilet

Would simply replacing the wax ring solve this or does anyone think I've got an issue with the toilet itself.

The answer would have to be "maybe" to both questions, because we can't see it and the only way to be sure is to replace the wax ring and see what happens.

Richard S · Jan 31, 2006

I'll be replacing the wax ring this week & I'll keep you posted. The toilet's not wobbly. I'll keep my fingers crossed that it's only the wax ring.

Thanks,
Richard

Richard S · Feb 16, 2006

I pulled it & there appears to be nothing wrong with the toilet. so I figure the wax ring somehow failed. Which leads to the next set of questions.

1. As the toilet flange is slightly recessed in the floor, I think I should probably use a 2nd wax ring. A colleague mentioned that it won't seal properly having 2 separate wax rings on top of one another as the wax rings won't form 1 solid mass under the toilet. This is contrary to what I've read here & elsewhere, & was hoping to hear some feedback on this.

2. I've seen Terry's posts on installing the waxless rings & was considering using it. Does anyone have any thoughts on that?

I appreciate everyone's help.

Thanks,
Richard

Jadnashua · Feb 16, 2006

You can get a seal with two wax rings, but it also then becomes more susceptible to failure if you use the plunger on it. On the two toilets in my home, I used the Fluidmaster waxless rings. I've not had any problems, but that is only a sample of two. Wax has been in use for decades and is proven. I just liked the idea of making it alot cleaner if you wanted to pull the toilet, like I had to do occassionally while doing remodeling without having to scrape up and clean up the old wax.

Richard S · Feb 16, 2006

Jim,
In your sample size of 2, have you used a plunger yet with the Fluidmaster waxless ring? If so, did it break the seal?

Thanks,
Richard

Gary Swart · Feb 16, 2006

I have 2 toilets, both equipped with waxless rings. Never have to plunge them, so can't speak to that question, but I like the waxless if for not other reason than not having to deal with the mess. Some folks have reported that it is easier to install waxless if you put the ring on the toilet's horn first, then lower the toilet onto the flange. You must make certain the toilet is seated into the flange and is solid.

Jadnashua · Feb 16, 2006

Don't need no stinking plungers with a Toto

. Well, not in my experience anyways. Check this out http://fluidmaster.com/usa.html . I know that there are other brands. I don't think you'd have any problems.

Richard S · Feb 19, 2006

Just thought I'd post a follow-up. I installed the Fluidmaster waxless ring & couldn't be happier. It's been a few days now & no leaks detected after multiple flushes. Terry's tip about putting the ring on the toilet first was definitely the way to go.

Thanks again. Now that bathroom remodel is officially finished, it's on to the next bathroom

Jimbo · Feb 20, 2006

I also agree with putting the Fluidmaster waxless on the horn first. Fluidmasters little cardboard strips seem like a "light-bulb" idea some engineer had to make it consumer friendly, but I am less than confident in their ability to ensure that the red washer snaps up over the horn like it needs to.

One other thing you could do for future reference is use some 1/4" thick flange extenders to get the height up.

toilet leaking

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