I've just moved into a house with a high-cistern toilet & have noticed some discolouration at the back. When I checked, the metal pipe that connects the cistern to the toilet appears damp around the connection to the toilet bowl, and seeps slightly (not enough to leak properly). I've tried turning the water off to the tank & flushing the remaining water through, but there must be some water left in the pipe, as it doesn't seem to dry up. I tried silicon sealant, but the small amount of moisture stopped it setting. Is there anything I can use, while it's still damp/wet? Any other ideas? I'm new to DIY, so unless it's a simple fix, I'll probably end up with a plumber...

Colin E, March 2010

sounds like the pan connector seal is leaking.

hi-spec plumbing & heating (essex), March 2010

Hi Peccavi

I've checked for condensation, and the rest of the pipe, toilet & cistern are completely dry. It's only the join between pipe & bowl that's wet.

Cheers

Colin E, March 2010

It may well be a leak but leaks tend to drip drip drip - consider the possibility that the moisture you see may just be condensation. The cistern will be cold from the water that enters it - warm air from the house may be the condensing out on the tank. Try opening a window before calling a plumber...

Good luck...

Peccavi, March 2010