A running toilet, dripping tap or leaking fitting can look like a straightforward repair. You watch a few videos, pick up a replacement part and decide to give it a go.
Sometimes the repair works exactly as planned. Other times, the original problem remains, a component breaks or a small leak becomes a much larger issue.
RJT Plumbing & Gas has attended homes where a DIY plumbing repair has failed or caused additional damage. It happens more often than many homeowners realise, and there is no need to feel embarrassed about calling a plumber after the job has already started.
If a DIY repair has gone wrong, it is never too late to stop and get professional help.
Why Simple Plumbing Repairs Can Become Complicated
Many household plumbing components appear simple from the outside. A toilet cistern, for example, may contain only a few visible parts, but those components need to work together correctly to control the water level, refill the cistern and prevent water from continually running into the bowl.
A running toilet may be caused by:
- A worn or damaged outlet valve seal
- A faulty inlet valve
- An incorrectly adjusted float
- Mineral build-up or debris
- A cracked or deteriorated internal component
- A replacement part that does not suit the toilet
Replacing the first part that looks suspicious does not always resolve the underlying fault. It can also be easy to damage older plastic components, seals or fittings while removing or reinstalling them.
Common Ways a DIY Repair Can Go Wrong
Most DIY plumbing problems are not caused by carelessness. They happen because the repair is more complicated than it initially appeared.
Using the Wrong Replacement Part
Toilet cisterns, taps and valves are not always fitted with universal components. A part may look similar but have a different size, thread, seal or operating mechanism.
If the wrong component is installed, the fixture may continue leaking, fail to refill correctly or develop a new problem.
Overtightening a Fitting
It is natural to assume that a leaking fitting needs to be tightened further. However, overtightening can crush a seal, strip a thread or crack a plastic component.
Once the fitting is damaged, the original repair can quickly become a replacement job.
Damaging Brittle Components
Plastic components can become brittle as they age. A valve or connector that has been in place for years may crack when it is twisted, removed or placed under pressure.
This can happen even when the homeowner is being careful.
Fixing the Symptom Instead of the Cause
A running toilet may temporarily stop after a component is moved or adjusted, but that does not necessarily mean the fault has been repaired.
If a seal is worn, a valve is sticking or the water level is incorrectly set, the issue may return shortly afterwards.
Know When to Stop
If a DIY plumbing job is no longer going to plan, continuing to dismantle the fixture may create more damage.
It is sensible to stop when:
- A component has cracked or broken
- Water continues to leak after the repair
- The isolation valve will not close properly
- The replacement part does not fit correctly
- The toilet or tap no longer operates as it did before
- You are unsure how the components should be reassembled
Where it is safe to do so, turn off the water at the fixture’s isolation valve and avoid using it until the problem has been assessed.
Calling a Plumber After Starting the Job
Some homeowners hesitate to call a plumber because they have already attempted the repair. They may worry that the plumber will judge the work, refuse to touch it or charge more simply because someone else has started the job.
That is not how RJT Plumbing & Gas approaches the situation.
The priority is to understand what has happened, identify the original fault and determine what now needs to be repaired or replaced.
Depending on the situation, this may involve:
- Removing an unsuitable replacement component
- Replacing a damaged valve, seal or connector
- Correctly adjusting the water level
- Repairing a leak caused during the attempted repair
- Testing the fixture to ensure it operates properly
- Checking that the water can be safely isolated
It does not matter whether the repair was attempted five minutes ago or has been causing problems for several weeks. Getting a plumber involved can prevent further damage and bring the job to a proper conclusion.
Do Not Ignore a Running Toilet
A toilet that continually runs into the bowl may seem like a minor inconvenience, particularly if the toilet still flushes normally.
However, the constant flow can waste a substantial amount of water over time. The repeated refilling can also place unnecessary wear on the inlet valve and other cistern components.
Warning signs include:
- A constant trickling sound
- The cistern refilling when nobody has flushed
- Water visibly moving inside the toilet bowl
- The toilet taking too long to refill
- The inlet valve making unusual noises
- Water appearing around the toilet or isolation valve
Addressing the fault early is generally easier than waiting for another component to fail.
It Is Never Too Late to Ask for Help
Attempting a basic household repair does not make someone irresponsible. Many homeowners are simply trying to solve a problem quickly and avoid unnecessary expense.
But plumbing components can be less forgiving than they appear. One cracked fitting or incorrectly installed part can turn a small repair into a larger job.
When that happens, stop before the damage spreads and call RJT Plumbing & Gas.
Whether the original plumbing fault remains, a replacement part has not worked or something has been accidentally damaged, RJT can assess the situation and get the fixture operating correctly again.
RJT Plumbing & Gas provides toilet repairs and general plumbing services throughout North Lakes, Griffin, Mango Hill, Kallangur and surrounding North Brisbane suburbs.
Started a DIY plumbing repair and found yourself in a jam? Contact RJT Plumbing & Gas and let Reece get it sorted properly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if a DIY plumbing repair goes wrong?
Stop dismantling the fixture, turn off the water at the isolation valve where it is safe to do so and contact a plumber. Continuing the repair after a component has broken or a leak has developed may cause additional damage.
Can a plumber repair damage caused by a DIY attempt?
In many cases, yes. A plumber can assess the original problem, identify any additional damage and replace or repair the affected valves, seals, fittings or other components.
Why does my toilet keep running after I replaced a part?
The replacement part may not suit the toilet, may have been installed incorrectly or may not have addressed the original fault. Running toilets can be caused by inlet valves, outlet seals, float adjustments, debris or damaged cistern components.
Can overtightening a plumbing fitting cause a leak?
Yes. Overtightening may crush a seal, damage a thread or crack a plastic fitting. A connection needs to be correctly seated and tightened without placing excessive force on the components.
When should I stop attempting a DIY toilet repair?
Stop if a component cracks, the leak becomes worse, the replacement part does not fit, the isolation valve will not close or you are unsure how the toilet should be reassembled. Calling a plumber at that stage may prevent further damage.
