How a Small Leak Can Cost You Thousands — and How to Stop It
Toilet Leaks
Did you know that a single leaking toilet is one of the most common — and costly — sources of high water and sewer bills? In most cases, toilet leaks come from a worn flapper valve, a faulty handle, or the wrong water level and often, those leaks are completely silent. Here’s how to spot and fix them before they drain your wallet.
1. The Flapper Valve
The flapper is the rubber seal that controls the amount of water flowing from the tank to the bowl during a flush. Over time (typically after five years), it can wear out and start leaking.
Tip: Avoid using in-tank chlorine cleaners — they can damage rubber and plastic parts, leading to premature failure.
To test for a flapper leak:
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- Remove the tank lid.
- Add a few drops of food colouring or a dye tablet to the tank.
- Wait 10 minutes without flushing.
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- If colored water appears in the bowl, the flapper is leaking and should be replaced.
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2. The Handle
A handle that sticks or doesn’t spring back properly can keep the flapper slightly open, allowing to flow continuously..
Check the handle:
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- Make sure it moves freely.
- If jiggling the handle stops the running water, the chain or wire may need to be adjusted.
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3. The Water Level
The water in the tank should sit about 1 cm (½ inch) below the top of the overflow pipe.
If it’s too high:
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- Adjust or replace the float ball or fill valve to prevent excess water from draining into the overflow tube.
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Don’t Forget:
- Most leaks are silent and invisible.
- Check your meter regularly for unexpected changes.
- Repair leaks quickly – it’s one of the simplest ways to save water and money.
How to Check for Hidden Leaks:
For homes with 6 or 8-digit water meters (measured in m³):
- Turn off all water use inside and outside the home.
- Watch the meter for one minute.
- If the small red triangle or dial continues to spin, there’s a leak somewhere in the system.
The Cost of Ignoring a Leak:
Even a tiny leak can have a substantial financial impact:
Leak Size |
Water Wasted (Per Month) |
Estimated Cost |
|
3 mm leak |
325 m³ |
Over $1,000 |
|
5 mm leak |
1,000 m³ |
Over $3,200 |
Contact Us
PUC Services Inc.
500 Second Line East
PO Box 9000
Sault Ste. Marie, P6A 6P2
Office Hours By Phone
Monday – Friday
9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Customer Experience: 705-759-6500
Emergencies: 705-759-6555
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