How to Replace a Toilet Connector Water Hose

You can easily replace a toilet's water-supply line.

A leaking or broken toilet connector hose can cause significant water damage to your home. As soon as you discover the leak, turn off the water at the shut-off valve behind the toilet. Then purchase a new flexible connector hose, more commonly called a water-supply line, that is designed for toilets and matches the diameter and length of the damaged line. Removing the old line and installing the new one won't take long.

Things You'll Need

• Adjustable wrench

Instructions

1. Remove the lid from the toilet tank. Make sure the shut-off valve is still off. Flush the toilet by pulling upward on the lever inside the tank and holding it until as much water as possible has drained out. Remove the rest of the water by mopping it up with a sponge. Wring out the sponge in a sink or bucket.

2. Unscrew the plastic nut connecting the supply line to the toilet. Turn it counterclockwise by hand to loosen it, then pull the line free of the toilet. Keep a towel handy to soak up any water that drips out.

3. Unscrew the metal nut that connects the water-supply line to the shut-off valve behind the toilet. Position your adjustable wrench on the nut and move it counterclockwise until the nut comes loose. Remove the supply line.

4. Attach the new supply line to the toilet by matching the end with the plastic nut to the threads extending from the toilet tank. Screw the nut onto the threads by turning it clockwise by hand. Do not overtighten.

5. Thread the metal nut on the other end of the supply line onto the shut-off valve. Tighten it by hand, then use your adjustable wrench to tighten it one more turn. Do not overtighten.

6. Turn the water back on at the shut-off valve. Check both connections for leaks. Carefully tighten the nuts a little further if there are leaks.

References

• Ron Hazelton: How to Replace a Toilet