How Much Water Will A Leaking Toilet Use?

Most residents in the Bloomington and Stillwater communities are relatively water conscious because they understand how vital this limited natural resource is to our planet. As a result, they work to conserve water or use it responsibly. However, one often silent thief can waste a massive amount of water without leaving any real signature signs like water damage or mold and mildew contamination. That wily bandit is a leaking toilet. And it can be responsible for as much as 250 gallons of water wasted each day.

The Financial Implication

We all know that living without water is not an option. So we have taken it in stride as the cost has increased by as much as 200% over the last decade and a half. But it is interesting to note that the EPA estimates that the average household uses 30% of its water consumption simply for toilet flushing. So that sizeable price increase means that you are flushing much money down the drain each day, week, and month. If your toilet has a steady leak that consumes an added 250 gallons of water a day, you are wasting an extra three-plus dollars a day or nearly $100 each month just because of a toilet leak.

The Common Culprits

While a toilet might cost a few hundred dollars to purchase at the big box store, the mechanical parts of the flush mechanism are typically cheap plastic and rubber that will wear out long before the porcelain body shows any wear. Investing a few dollars in replacement parts or calling 612-340-1444 for professional help from the licensed plumbers at Paul Bunyan Plumbing And Drain is a wise investment and one with a fantastic ROI. The most common parts to wear and create leaks include:

• The rubber seals or gaskets that develop gaps at the flush valve
• Minor cuts or wear in the flush valve
• A damaged fill valve that remains open constantly

All of these issues are easy for the Paul Bunyan pros to repair quickly and cost-effectively if you are not up for replacing the working parts inside a leaking toilet that is costing you a fortune.

A Simple Leak Test

If you wonder if your toilet is wasting precious water, all you need is a little food coloring and time. After the toilet has flushed and the holding tank is filled, remove the lid and place several drops of food coloring in the water. It should be enough to see the color of the water easily. Then replace the tank lid and leave the toilet unused for 30 to 60 minutes. When you return, look at the color of the water in the toilet bowl. If that water has any color, then there is a leak that needs to be repaired.

Call 612-340-1444 to request service from the expert licensed plumbers at Paul Bunyan Plumbing And Drain. And be sure to check our coupon page and ask about our discounts for senior citizens and military or healthcare workers for added savings on our reasonably priced services.