DIY: Replace the Mechanism in Your Toilet Tank
Photo by House Method on Unsplash
Some home maintenance projects definitely require a professional. But given just how fast homeownership costs can add up, it's nice to know that other home projects are DIY for the average person.
Replacing your toilet fill valve and the flapper is one such project.
The toilet is one of the few items in our homes that hasn't changed much in the past couple hundred years. What does that mean for you?
For the most part, basic mechanical principles make it work. And the great news is, if the toilet looks okay cosmetically, then replacing these mechanisms basically gives you a toilet that will function as if brand new.
Let's get started.
What you'll need
Aside from the replacement parts, we'll bet you have most of these things at home. Replace all or some of these parts using this guide. It's up to you.
Step one: Empty the tank
Start by turning off the water using the knob behind your toilet. This keeps the tank from re-filling as you empty it.
Flush the toilet. This will empty the tank partway. Don't miss this step or there will be way more water in the tank than the bucket can hold.
Now, place your bucket behind the toilet, and carefully remove the hose from the tank but not the wall. Direct the water into the bucket.
*Pro tip* If you have a larger than average tank, then you might have more water in it than you can fit into the bucket. Don't freak out it if it fills fast. Just place your thumb over the hole to stop the flow. Empty the bucket into one of the following:
Step two: remove the flapper & gasket
The flapper simply sits on top of the hole in the bottom of the tank. Simply dislodge the hinge of the flapper and pull it out of the tank.
Now, remove the gasket under the tank. Just unscrew the tank from the bowl. Lift the bowl carefully and set it on the floor. Remove the gasket by hand. You can then remove the valve by unscrewing it.
*Pro tip*: If the nut and bolt are on extra tight, you'll need one wrench to hold the nut under the tank while you unscrew from the inside.
Step three: replace the gasket & flapper
Simply screw the new gasket on. Be careful not to over-tighten and strip the grooves or you'll have a more significant repair job on your hands.
Screw the tank back onto the bowl, and then install your new valve with the lock nut, which will be under the tank. Place the flexible tube into the tanks overflow pipe.
Now, snap the new flapper in place and that's it. Use the rags to clean up any water that spilled. Fill up your tank and go.
For more easy DIY projects, follow our blog.
About the Author
Daniel Martin, Higgins Group Private Brokerage, Licensed in CT, Lic. #RES.6767971
With over two decades of experience in Connecticut real estate, Daniel Martin is a seasoned Realtor at Higgins Group Private Brokerage, renowned for his exceptional market insight and unwavering client dedication. A lifelong Connecticut resident, Daniel's deep roots in the community, coupled with his extensive professional background, provide an invaluable advantage to both buyers and sellers across Fairfield and New Haven Counties.
Daniel's distinguished career is marked by consistent achievement, earning him the prestigious Connecticut Magazine 5 Star Realtor award from 2014 to 2025. He is a perennial Top Producer, recognized as both a Top Listing Agent and Top Selling Agent, a testament to his strategic approach and keen understanding of market dynamics. His expertise spans a broad spectrum of real estate needs, including guiding First Time Home Buyers, navigating transactions for Single and Multi-Family Homes, Land, New Construction, New Residential Developments, Condominiums, Downsizing, and Rentals.
Beyond his impressive track record, Daniel's professional affiliations include memberships with the National Association of REALTORS (NAR), Connecticut Association of REALTORS (CAR), Bridgeport Board of Realtors, Smartmls and Greenwich MLS. His foundational education in real estate from Naugatuck Valley Community College, complemented by studies at Connecticut School of Electronics and Housatonic Community College, underpins his comprehensive understanding of the industry.
Daniel's unique blend of customer service acumen and technological proficiency sets him apart. He leverages every available marketing resource to ensure his clients' homes gain maximum exposure and stand out in the competitive market.
When not orchestrating successful real estate ventures, Daniel cherishes time with his family, including his wife, two children, and four grandchildren. A passionate musician and golf enthusiast, he embodies the vibrant spirit of the Connecticut communities he serves. Daniel's network extends globally, allowing him to facilitate referrals anywhere in the world.
