How to Replace Toilet Input Water Pipe

Replace your toilet input water pipe if it leaks.

A puddle of water on the outside of your toilet is a good indication that you have a bad toilet input water pipe. Those pipes connect the inlet valve on the toilet to the water supply. Replacing a toilet input water pipe isn't difficult, as it doesn't require any specialized tools.

Things You'll Need

• Towel
• Adjustable wrench
• Pliers
• Steel wool
• New toilet input water pipe
• Plumber's tape

Instructions

1. Locate the water supply shut off valve for the toilet. In the majority of cases, it will be either near the floor or on the wall behind the toilet. Rotate the oval or circular knob at the end of the valve clockwise to shut off the water.

2. Remove the toilet tank lid. On a dual flush toilet, you will first have to unscrew the button on top of the lid counterclockwise. Set the lid aside. Flush the toilet by pressing the outside handle down or, in the case of a dual flush toilet, one of the buttons on top of the siphon in the center of the tank. Wipe up any remaining water with the sponge.

3. Place a towel on the floor underneath the tank. Unscrew the coupling connecting the input water pipe to the tank. Use either the adjustable wrench or pliers, as needed.

4. Unscrew the other end of the input pipe from the water supply valve.

5. Rub a piece of steel wool on the threads of both the water supply valve and the inlet on the tank. That will clear off any traces of caulk or putty.

6. Wrap the threads on the water supply valve with plumber's tape. Connect one end of the new water input pipe and secure it in place. Wrap the threads on the tank inlet with plumber's tape in the same way. Connect the other end of the water input pipe.

7. Turn on the water supply valve. Watch the toilet input water pipe as the tank fills and check for leaks. Tighten the couplings at the end of the pipe if you spot any water dripping out. Replace the tank lid.

Tips & Warnings

• Even a seemingly small leak can cause a lot of damage. Ensure that there are no leaks before concluding the repair.

References

• Acme How To: Toilet Repair
• Toiletology: Repairing a Fill Valve