Preparing for Your Big Day

Posted on: 10 June 2015

While you are getting ready in the bathroom, you may start hearing a low hissing sound. If you suspect the noise could be caused by a leaking toilet, the following instructions will tell you how to find out if the tank is leaking using red, powdered drink mix.

What You Will Need

Before you begin, gather the following supplies.

• Two tablespoons of powdered fruit drink mix
• Clear toilet bowl cleaner

When selecting your powdered drink mix, choose one that will create a bright, unmistakable color. For example, red or purple are ideal because they can easily be seen.

The cleaner is used to pretreat your toilet bowl, keeping it from staining. A clear one is used so the color does not interfere with the visibility of the test.

Directions

Once you have what you need, follow the directions below to test your toilet tank for leaks. When deciding the time to perform this test, try to allow for about eight hours when no one will be flushing the toilet. The longer the mix sits in the tank, the better the chance of an accurate result. For example, do the test either before you go to bed or leave for work in the morning.

1. Turn off the water valve that feeds the toilet.
2. Coat the toilet bowl with the cleaner. Including under the toilet rim where the water enters it to protect it from staining as well.
3. Remove the toilet tank's lid.
4. Pour the two tablespoons of drink mix into the toilet tank. Mix it thoroughly with a long-handled object, such as a thin piece of pipe or a spoon. Be careful not to hit the flapper or flush valve.
5. Replace the tank lid and shut the toilet bowl lid, especially if you have pets that may decide to drink the water.
6. Wait eight hours without flushing the toilet.
7. Open the toilet bowl lid and look for any change in the color.
8. If you see the color of the drink mix, the tank is leaking. If so, try replacing the flush valve and perform the test again. If you still see colored water, you may need to have a professional take a look at it.

After performing the above test, you may discover that the leak is not coming from the tank. If so, the hissing noise could indicate a leaking or busted pipe. You may want to contact a plumber so they can diagnose the problem and recommend plumbing services in Bergen County NJ.