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A simple dye test can verify if the flapper in your toilet is sealing properly and prevent silent leaks. Flush your toilet as usual and wait for the water to rise again to the fill line. Drop about 4 to 5 food coloring drops in the toilet tank. You may want to use a dark color such as blue or red. Wait 20 to 30 minutes and then survey the toilet bowl. If the colored water appears in the bowl within 15 minutes, there is a leak in the flapper valve. Leaks occur when the flapper valve does not create a watertight seal. The seal can be compromised due to several reasons: a) the chain snagging, not allowing the flapper to drop completely onto the valve seat; c) the valve seat is worn; or c) the flapper is worn or warped. A worn flapper is the most common cause by far, and can be easily replaced. Dye in the tank Helpful hint…. Remove the old flapper and take it with you to the hardware store or home center to find a matching replacement easily.