How to Plumb Toilet Lines

Toilets require a single supply line.

Toilets require one supply line that is connected to both a fill valve inside the toilet tank and to a water line valve that's connected to a stub out in the bathroom floor or wall. Connecting the plumbing for a toilet requires the use of a water supply line designed specifically for toilets. These are usually braided PVC or metal lines that prevent leaks or bursting in most cases. Plumbing a toilet connection is a straightforward process that requires only a basic level of plumbing knowledge.

Things You'll Need

• 3/8-inch water line
• Adjustable wrench

Send to Phone

Brought to you by

Send to Phone

Please enter your 10 digit phone number only.

Send

A link to this article has been sent to the phone number provided.

Close

Reply HELP for help, STOP to end. Message and data rates may apply.

Instructions

1. Turn the ball valve on the main water line 90 degrees clockwise to shut off the flow of water to the entire house. This will help minimize leaks and splashes during the plumbing work.

2. Locate the stub out near the toilet. The stub out is an exposed section of pipe that has a water line valve attached to it and is usually located on the floor or directly behind the toilet.

3. Place a 3/8-inch compression water line onto the threaded end of the water valve. Turn the nut on the water line clockwise until tight by hand, followed by 1/4 turn with a wrench to secure the connection.

4. Place the other end of the water line onto the threaded end of the toilet fill valve. The fill valve is located under the toilet tank. Turn the nut clockwise until tight by hand, followed by 1/4 turn with a wrench to secure the connection.

5. Turn the main water line ball valve 90 degrees counterclockwise to begin the flow of water to the house.

6. Return to the toilet and turn the water valve to the toilet counterclockwise until the handle stops. You should hear water rush into the fill valve inside the toilet as you turn, with the water rushing faster until the handle stops.

7. Test the connection by flushing the toilet and allowing it to refill.

References

• YouTube: How to Repair a Toilet : Reattaching Water Line to Toilet

Resources

• The Home Depot: Buying Guides: Plumbing