How to Repair Toilet Handles

Repairing toilet handles is a fairly simple operation

Repairing a broken toilet handle is a lot less difficult than most people think. All it takes is a new handle, some tools and a little bit of time. Since the job doesn't require the DIYer to work around running water, there's no danger of flooding your bathroom if something goes wrong.

Things You'll Need

• Rags
• Wrench
• New toilet handle

Instructions

1. Spread the rags out on the floor around the toilet. No matter how careful you are, working around water means that something will probably get wet.

2. Remove the top of the toilet tank. Set it down on the rags.

3. Disconnect the chain attached to the flush handle on the inside of the tank. This is usually attached by a small hook. This will be the only contact you have with water.

4. Loosen the nut at the back of the handle on the interior of the tank. Remember to turn this clockwise, since the screw is facing away from you.

5. Remove the old handle.

6. Insert a new handle into the tank. Thread the nut through the handle bolt on the inside of the tank. Tighten this by hand. You can then give it a good turn with the wrench.

7. Reattach the chain to the flush handle.

8. Flush the toilet to make sure everything is working correctly.

9. Replace the top of the tank.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure not to overtighten the nut on the back of the handle, as this could crack the porcelain. Don't worry about working with the water in the tank. It has been treated and doesn't contain any sewage matter.

• These are generic instructions that will work for the majority of installations. As always, follow the instructions from the manufacturer.

References

• Toiletology

Resources

• Lowe's - Toilet Installation