Toilet Repair: Fixes for Running, Leaking, or Wobbly Toilets

You hear it. The toilet runs all night, or there’s a tiny pool creeping out from the base. Maybe the whole thing wobbles when you sit down. These aren’t just small annoyances—they’re calling cards for bigger headaches. Water waste, rising bills, and the risk of damage lurking under the floorboards.

At Down to Earth Plumbing, we know these problems rarely wait for a convenient time. Our team sees it every week: what starts as a simple fix turns costly fast if ignored. Whether you’re a DIYer or just want to know when to call for emergency plumbing, you’re in the right place.

Most Frequent Toilet Issues 🚽

Toilets are like the unsung heroes of the home—until something goes wrong. Here are the most common culprits we encounter:

• Running Toilet: That constant hiss isn’t just irritating. It’s money down the drain, sometimes hundreds of liters a day.
• Leaking Toilet: Water at the base or dripping from the tank means trouble brewing—think hidden mold, warped floors, or slow rot.
• Wobbly Toilet: When your throne rocks, it’s not just uncomfortable. It can break the wax seal and lead to leaks you can’t see.
• Phantom Flushes: The tank refills randomly, as if by ghostly hands.
• Weak Flush: You flush, but the bowl never fully empties—often a sign of hidden blockages or fill valve issues.

These are the big three: running, leaking, and wobbly. Let’s tackle them, step by step.

Quick Safety Checklist

Before you pick up a wrench, press pause. Safety first—always.

• Turn off the water supply at the shutoff valve (usually on the wall behind the toilet).
• Unplug any electrical devices nearby.
• Place towels or a bucket near the base—water may escape during repairs.
• Wash hands after handling internal toilet parts.
• If you smell gas or see electrical outlets underwater, leave the area and contact emergency plumbing immediately.

Tools You’ll Need

You don’t need a truck-load of gear. Most repairs can be tackled with a few basics:

• Adjustable wrench or pliers
• Flathead and Phillips screwdrivers
• New toilet flapper or fill valve (for running toilets)
• Wax ring (for wobbly/leaking base)
• Level (to check if the toilet sits flat)
• Utility knife (to cut any caulking)
• Rubber gloves
• Sponge and bucket

Step-by-Step DIY Repairs

Fixing a Running Toilet (Flapper or Fill Valve)

1. Open the Tank: Carefully remove the lid and set it aside.
2. Inspect the Flapper: The flapper is a rubber piece covering the flush valve. If it’s warped or brittle, it won’t form a good seal.
3. Replace the Flapper:
   • Turn off the water supply.
   • Flush to empty the tank.
   • Unhook the old flapper and snap the new one in place.
   • Reconnect the chain, leaving a bit of slack.
4. Adjust or Replace the Fill Valve: If the flapper’s fine but water still runs, the fill valve may be at fault. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to adjust or swap it out.
5. Test: Turn water back on and flush. The tank should fill, then stop.

Sealing a Leaky Toilet (Base or Tank)

1. Find the Leak: Dry the outside and flush. Watch where new water appears.
2. Tighten Tank Bolts: If water’s seeping between tank and bowl, gently tighten bolts. Don’t overtighten—porcelain cracks easily.
3. Replace Wax Ring (Base Leak):
   • Shut off water and disconnect supply line.
   • Remove nuts from floor bolts.
   • Lift toilet (have a helper if needed—it’s heavy).
   • Scrape away old wax ring and set a new one in place.
   • Lower toilet straight down, lining up bolts.
   • Press down to seat wax ring. Tighten bolts evenly.
   • Reconnect and test.

Stopping a Wobbly Toilet

1. Check Floor Bolts: Pry off plastic caps at base. Tighten nuts gently.
2. Replace Wax Ring: If bolts are snug but the toilet still rocks, the wax ring may be uneven or crushed. Follow the steps above.
3. Level the Toilet: Use a level. If needed, add plastic shims (never wood) under the base.
4. Caulk Around Base: Once stable, apply a thin bead of caulk for a finished look—leave a gap at the back for leak detection.

When to Call a Plumber

DIY not working? Some situations need a professional touch:

• You can’t stop the leak, or water is pooling fast.
• The toilet rocks even after reseating and shimming.
• There’s a strong sewage smell (could be a broken seal or vent issue).
• Water is leaking from the tank bolts or supply line, not just the base.
• You spot cracks in the porcelain.
• You see signs of water damage in the ceiling below a second-story bathroom.

Emergency plumbing isn’t just for floods—persistent leaks and wobbles can turn into major repairs if ignored.

What Pros Do On Arrival

When Down to Earth Plumbing shows up, here’s what happens:

• Inspect for hidden leaks using moisture meters and leak detection tools.
• Test water pressure and look for code violations.
• Check for sewer line issues if the problem is recurring.
• Use heavy-duty tools for stubborn bolts or rusted parts.
• Ensure the repair meets Australian Standards and local building codes.
• Clean up and ensure the toilet is safe for use.

Prevention & Maintenance

A little care stretches your toilet’s life. Here’s how:

• Inspect flappers and fill valves every six months (set a reminder in your phone).
• Avoid “drop-in” tank cleaners—they can wear out parts faster.
• Don’t flush wipes, dental floss, or anything non-biodegradable.
• Watch for slow leaks—a few drops can mean a failing seal.
• Schedule Preventative Maintenance near you for peace of mind.

Costs & Time Factors

Toilet repairs don’t have to drain your wallet—or your day.

• DIY flapper or fill valve swaps: 10–30 minutes, cost of parts $10–$30.
• Wax ring replacement: 1–2 hours for most DIYers; professional jobs often faster and less mess.
• Leak diagnosis or stubborn repairs: May take longer and require special tools.
• Calling in a plumber: Labor rates vary by region and time of day (after-hours emergency plumbing costs more).

Always factor in your comfort level. If you’re unsure, a quick call saves bigger headaches.

When It’s an Emergency

Some toilet problems are like small fires—they need immediate attention:

• Water is gushing or flooding the bathroom.
• Sewage is backing up into the bowl or onto the floor.
• You smell natural gas or see electrical outlets underwater.
• Multiple plumbing fixtures are affected (could be a mainline issue).

Turn off the water. Get everyone clear if there’s a safety hazard. Then call for emergency plumbing.

FAQ: Toilet Repair

Q: Why does my toilet keep running after I flush?
A: Usually, the flapper isn’t sealing, or the fill valve is stuck. These are quick fixes you can try yourself.

Q: Is a leaking toilet base a health hazard?
A: Yes—standing water can encourage mold and bacteria. Fix leaks fast to protect your home and health.

Q: Can a wobbly toilet cause more damage?
A: Absolutely. It can break the wax seal, allowing water to seep into flooring and subfloor. Over time, this leads to expensive repairs.

Q: Should I use caulk around the toilet base?
A: Yes, but leave a small gap at the back. This allows leaks to be spotted early.

Local & Seasonal Considerations

In humid or rainy months, small leaks can go unnoticed until flooring swells or mold appears. If your home is older or has settled, bolts may loosen over time. Cold snaps can make plastic parts brittle—check regularly. For those in areas with hard water, mineral buildup in fill valves and flappers shortens their lifespan, so routine checks are crucial.

For more guidance, the Australian Building Codes Board offers standards on plumbing safety, and the Water Services Association of Australia provides best-practice tips for water efficiency.

Don’t let a running, leaking, or wobbly toilet keep you up at night—or run up your water bill. For fast, friendly service, Call Down to Earth Plumbing now — or reach us anytime at  888-488-8509 .