How to Prevent Toilet Tanks From Sweating

Prevent your toilet tank from producing condensation.

A sweaty toilet tank indicates that the water in the tank is cooler than the temperature outside the tank, which leads to a buildup of condensation. This is common in northern states where winters are very cold and the water coming through the pipes is significantly colder than the heated house. The water dripping off the toilet can cause mold and mildew, so preventing the problem is easier than dealing with the aftermath of mold spreading through your home.

Instructions

1. Install a whole-house dehumidifier if your home has a high humidity level, as this can contribute to the toilet sweating.

2. Adjust or replace the flapper if you hear the toilet running. If the flapper isn't functioning properly, it could lead to the toilet constantly adding more cold water to keep the tank full.

3. Install a toilet tank insulation kit. The process is as simple as turning off the water, flushing the toilet to drain the tank, cutting the insulation to fit your toilet and securing the insulation to the inside of your tank.

4. Divert some hot water to your toilet tank by installing a tempering valve. This can be a bit more involved, although it can be done with the proper tools or by a professional plumber.

Tips & Warnings

• If you notice that your toilet tank is sweating, put a bucket or some kind of container under it to keep the water from getting everywhere and producing mildew.

• Avoid flushing your toilet after a steamy shower. This introduces new cold water to the tank, and the combination of the steamy bathroom and the cold water can produce toilet tank condensation.

References

• Home Edition Plus: How to Fix a Sweating Toilet Tank
• Home Tips: How to Repair a Toilet That Sweats