How Do You Fix a Toilet Handle?
A toilet handle that doesn't do its job after you push down should be fixed as soon as possible. Otherwise, you could find your bathroom smelling less than pleasant. The handle connects to a valve called a flapper in your toilet tank. Pressing down on the handle lifts up a chain, which raises the flapper and allows the water in the tank to rush into the toilet bowl and carry away the waste inside. Fixing a toilet handle is a project that any DIYer can handle. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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1
Reach down into the water (don't worry, it's perfectly clean) and unhook the flapper chain from the end of the handle rod. It may be attached directly to the rod itself, or fixed in place by a wire loop attached to the rod.
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2
Follow the rod back to where it meets the back of the handle. Put one hand on the front of the handle and hold it steady. Remove the retaining ring on the back of the handle where it meets the rod -- note that this ring unscrews in the opposite direction you would expect it to. Use the pliers, if needed. Pull the ring off the handle.
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3
Pull the handle and rod out of the toilet through the hole in the tank.
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4
Examine the handle for damage. Replace the gaskets if necessary. Remove any bends in the handle rod by straightening it out on a flat surface, such as a table or workbench, using pliers.
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5
Replace the handle in the tank by inserting the rod through the tank hole. Hold the rod in place with one hand. Slip the ring over the rod in the back with your other hand. Secure the ring over the back of the handle.
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6
Reconnect the flapper chain to the end of the handle rod.
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7
Flush the toilet and check to make sure the handle has been fixed properly. Replace the lid.
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Tips & Warnings
You can purchase new gaskets for the handle at a home center.
It may be simpler to replace the handle assembly then repairing an older one. Bring your old handle assembly when shopping to help you pick the right size and type of replacement.
