Toilet tanks in hot and humid summer months can develop condensate or sweat, sometimes so badly that you may think that the toilet is actually leaking. The reason this happens is that the water coming into your home is much cooler than the temperature in your home.. and just like a cold drink on your coffee table, the tank will sweat. The water dripping off the tank can also lead to floor/wall damage, besides being an annoyance. But the solution is not a complicated one, it just costs a little money. You can purchase a toilet tank insulating kit that should solve the problem, however if this is not practical for your tank you could also purchase a pre insulated tank, or install a mixing valve that will add a mix of hot and cold water to the tank.
Note: If your toilet flapper is worn or your fill valve is not properly adjusted, causing water to slowly trickle into the bowl, this can also create condensation on the toilet tank.
Tools and materials you may require
- Toilet tank insulating kit
- Putty knife
- Utility knife
- Adjustable wrench
- Rags
- Sponge
- Measuring tape
- Adhesive if not supplied
Installing the toilet tank liner
- Turn off the water to the toilet tank.
- Flush the tank and use a sponge to soak up all the water left inside the tank.
- Inspect the condition of the tank, look for any cracks, build up of sediment or rust and give it a thorough cleaning.
- Allow the toilet tank to dry completely before attempting to add the insulation. A hair dryer can speed this up a little.
- Measure and cut the insulation to size. If the fill-valve/ball-valve is in your way, you can remove it by disconnecting the water supply and removing the nut under the tank.
- Start by applying the adhesive to the large panels, and install them first. Use a liberal amount of adhesive and spread it around evenly.
- Install the side panels and allow to dry.
Other solutions
- Of course you can always purchase another toilet tank for your model, which will have insulation pre-installed, and would be cheaper than hiring a plumber to install a mixing valve.
- A mixing valve can be installed, adding hot water to the toilet supply. Although it is not recommended for a home owner to attempt this.
- A water storage tank can be installed; which would allow for the water to be stored for a period of time, where it will increase to room temperature. This solution is very impractical.
