A loose toilet handle can ruin your peace of mind. It can even be worse when the affected toilet doesn’t flush. Is your toilet handle loose? If so, you’re not alone. Many people have this problem at some point. Luckily, it’s an easy fix.
If you are unable to carry out any of these steps on your own, remember we’re on standby. At Rick’s Plumbing, our fully qualified team is always available to help. No matter the cause of your loose toilet handle, we’ll fix it in no time.
How to Tighten a Toilet Handle
1. Close the toilet seat cover
This prevents the lid from getting in the way and parts or tools from falling in the toilet bowl.
2. Remove the toilet tank cover
Do this with both hands and place it on a flat surface. If your tank is made of porcelain, be careful not to drop it as it may crack.
3. Shut off the water supply to the toilet
The shut-off valve is usually located behind the toilet, close to the base. Turn the knob or handle clockwise to stop the flow of water.
4. Flush the toilet to empty the tank
Do this so you have easy access to the handle and can see what you’re doing.
5. Locate the toilet handle nut
The toilet handle nut is often the cause of a loose toilet handle. It is usually found inside the tank, on the underside of the handle.
6. Use a wrench to tighten the toilet handle nut
Turn the nut clockwise with an adjustable wrench or pliers until it is snug. Be careful not to over-tighten as this may damage the handle or tank.
7. If the handle is still loose, repeat steps 5-7 until it is tight. If it feels better, congratulations.
8. Turn on the water supply to the toilet
Restore water to the tank by turning the shut-off valve handle counterclockwise.
9. Flush the toilet to test the handle
If it works fine, your job is done. If the handle is still loose, there may be another problem. Don’t despair, follow the instructions in the next section to replace your toilet handle or contact Rick’s Plumbing.
How to Replace a Toilet Handle
1. Know the type of toilet handle you need
Check your toilet handle to know the brand name, model and make. If you can’t find the information, you should be able to get a universal flush handle at your local hardware store.
2. Repeat steps 1-4 in the section above
Close the toilet seat cover, remove the tank cover, shut off the water supply and flush the toilet.
3. Unclasp the chain clip
Inside the toilet tank, you will see the flush handle and a chain or wire attached to it. The other end of the chain is connected to a flapper valve. The clip holding the chain in place is called the “chain clip.” Unclip it.
4. Remove the mounting nut
Do you remember the nut we told you to tighten in the previous section? Well, this is it. Use a wrench to remove it by turning it counterclockwise. The flush handle and attached parts should come off easily. If not, pull firmly but gently.
5. Remove the old handle
If you’ve been able to remove the chain and nut, the old handle should come off easily. If it’s stuck, you may need to angle it or use pliers.
6. Unscrew the mounting nut on your new handle
This is usually located on the underside of the handle. Unscrew it and put it in a safe place so you don’t lose it.
7. Screw on the new mounting nut
Gently screw the new mounting nut on by hand. Do not over-tighten as this may damage the handle.
8. Insert the new handle into the tank hole
Gently push it in until it’s tight. If it’s a universal handle, you may need to trim the shaft to fit.
9. Reconnect the chain
Attach one end of the chain or wire to the new handle and the other end to the flapper valve. Make sure there is some slack in the chain so it doesn’t get pulled too tight when you flush.
10. Turn on the water supply
Restore water to the tank by turning the shut-off valve handle counterclockwise.
11. Flush the toilet to test the new handle
If it works fine, your job is done. Congratulations!
Contact Us if You Fail to Fix Your Loose Toilet Handle
If you have followed the instructions in this article and are still having problems with your toilet handle, please contact us. We are happy to help you troubleshoot the issue and find a solution that works for you. Call us today at 203-874-6629 to talk to one of our friendly team members.