How to Change a Toilet Handle

A new handle will keep your toilet in working order.

One of the most basic parts of a toilet is the handle, yet it is also one of the most important. When the handle breaks. it is often because plastic parts have worn out. After being pressed hundreds of times, the lever on the back of the handle just gives out. You will not have to replace your toilet if the handle breaks. Handles are sold separately in home remodeling centers, and installation isn't complicated.

Things You'll Need

• Pliers

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Instructions

1. Lift the cover off the tank and set it aside. Look inside the tank for a lever attached to the back of the handle.

2. Disconnect the flapper chain at the end of the handle lever. The flapper chain is connected to the handle lever by a metal clip. Let the chain rest at the bottom of the tank.

3. Unscrew the plastic retaining nut on the backside of the handle. The plastic retaining nut is on the inside of the tank and twisted onto threads on the back of the handle. Use your hand or a pair of pliers to turn the retaining nut clockwise. When the retaining nut is loose enough, slide it off the handle lever.

4. Pull straight out on the handle, and then pull to the left, to slide the handle and the lever out of the front of the tank.

5. Slide the lever through the handle hole, located on the front of your tank, to install the new handle. Push the lever all the way in until the handle threads are showing on the inside of the tank.

6. Slide the plastic retaining nut onto the end of the handle lever, and all the way up to the threads on the back of the handle. Make sure that the large threaded end is facing toward the back of the handle.

7. Twist the plastic retaining nut counterclockwise with your hands to tighten it to the threads on the back of the handle.

8. Reconnect the flapper chain to the end of the handle lever. The chain must be tight enough to lift the flapper when you press your handle, but not so tight that it puts a strain on the lever, or stops the flapper from closing.

Tips & Warnings

• If your toilet has a ballcock, unscrew the metal rod connected to a short lever on the back of the handle. Turn the metal rod counterclockwise to remove it from the handle.

References

• Hammer Zone: Fixing a Broken Toilet Flush Lever