How to Install a Braided Water Supply Toilet

Traditional toilet plumbing used copper or steel tubing between the shut-off valve and the connection at the toilet tank. Metal tubing serves the purpose well but has to be cut to length and then shaped by bending, and is subject to leaking from corrosion and metal fatigue. The modern choice for water supply lines is nylon-reinforced vinyl tubing covered by a flexible braided stainless steel sheath. These lines are very durable, won't corrode, and are simpler to install because they require no cutting or bending and no special tools.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Sponge Teflon tape or pipe joint compound Wrench or pliers

How to Install a Braided Toilet Water Supply Line

1. Turn off the water supply by turning the shut-off valve clockwise. Flush the toilet to drain the tank. Remove the tank lid and sponge out any remaining water.

2. Remove the old supply line by turning the fittings at the tank and at the shut-off valve counterclockwise.

3. Select a new braided stainless steel supply line that is at least as long as the old tubing and has the same size fittings.

4. Wrap at least one turn of Teflon tape or apply pipe joint compound to the fill valve threads at the base of the toilet tank. Screw the large supply line nut onto the threads clockwise until it's hand tight, and then one-quarter turn more with a wrench or pliers.

5. Apply Teflon tape or pipe joint compound to the shut-off valve threads and screw on the supply line fitting---hand tight plus one-quarter turn. Open the valve fully to turn the water on and check for leaks at both connections.