How to Repair a Broken Overflow Tube in a Toilet Tank

Repair your broken overflow tube to save both water and money.

The overflow tube in a toilet tank helps keep the tank from flooding if other parts of the toilet malfunction. In normal operation after a flush, the tank refills from the water supply valve. As the water rises, it moves a floater, which cuts off the water supply when it reaches the desired level in the toilet tank. If the floater malfunctions and fails to cut off the water supply, the excess water runs out the overflow tube and back into the sewer supply. Repair a broken overflow tube in a toilet tank as soon as you discover it.

Things You'll Need

• New overflow tube
• Penetrating lubricant
• Adjustable wrench

Instructions

1. Turn off the water supply for the toilet tank, which in most bathrooms is located on the wall behind the toilet. Turn the knob clockwise to turn off the water supply.

2. Flush the toilet to remove all the water. Wipe up any remaining water with a sponge and towels.

3. Check underneath the tank, and look for the main bolt. Place a few drops of penetrating lubricant on this, and allow it to soak in for a few minutes. Remove the bolt with the pliers, and you will see another bolt you also must take out. Use the penetrating lubricant on this as well if it is hard to remove.

4. Disconnect the flapper chain from the lever by unhooking it. Lift the refill tube out of the overflow tube, and set it on the bottom of the tank. Remove the overflow tube by turning it counterclockwise.

5. Set the new overflow pipe in the fitting. Tighten it in place by turning it clockwise. Remove the flapper from the old overflow pipe, and slip it over the new one until it is flush with the bottom of the tank. Reconnect the flapper chain to the lever. Replace the refill tube by clipping it back into the overflow tube.

6. Insert the bolts and washer back into the bottom of the tank, and tighten in place.

7. Turn on the water supply. Allow the tank to fill. Flush the tank, and check for proper operation.

Tips & Warnings

• If in doubt about any of the above steps, consult a professional plumber.

References

• Fluidmaster: Ask Dr. Flush
• Ask the Builder: Toilet Repair

Resources

• Toiletology