What causes a toilet to leak from the base when flushing?
A leak at the base when you flush usually means the wax ring seal or closet flange isn’t sealing. Loose closet bolts or a rocking toilet can break that seal. A hairline crack in the bowl or an improperly set toilet can also cause base leaks. Water may only appear during a flush because waste water is forcing past the failed seal.
Quick checks:
- Gently rock the toilet; movement signals a bad seal/bolts.
- Dry the floor, flush, and watch the base.
- Shut off water and avoid use.
Updated: 2025-12-29
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Sources
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