How to Fix a Broken Toilet Handle: A Step-by-Step Guide

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How to Repair a Broken Toilet Handle

A broken toilet handle is a common problem that can be both annoying and inconvenient. Fortunately, it’s a relatively easy fix that you can do yourself in just a few minutes.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps of repairing a broken toilet handle, from identifying the problem to replacing the parts. We’ll also provide some tips on how to prevent future problems.

So if your toilet handle is broken, don’t despair! With a little DIY know-how, you can have it fixed up and working like new in no time.

Step Tools Instructions
1. Gather your tools
  • Phillips head screwdriver
  • Adjustable wrench
  • Pliers
  • New toilet handle
  1. Turn off the water supply to the toilet.
  2. Remove the old toilet handle by unscrewing the two screws that hold it in place.
  3. Install the new toilet handle by screwing it into place.
  4. Turn the water supply back on to the toilet.
2. Remove the old toilet handle
  • Phillips head screwdriver
  1. Locate the two screws that hold the toilet handle in place.
  2. Use a Phillips head screwdriver to unscrew the two screws.
  3. Carefully remove the old toilet handle.
3. Install the new toilet handle
  • Phillips head screwdriver
  • Adjustable wrench
  1. Align the new toilet handle with the mounting holes.
  2. Insert the screws through the holes in the toilet handle and into the toilet.
  3. Use an adjustable wrench to tighten the screws until the toilet handle is secure.
4. Turn the water supply back on
  • Pliers
  1. Turn the water supply valve back on.
  2. Flush the toilet to test the new toilet handle.

Identifying the Problem

A broken toilet handle is a common problem that can be easily fixed. However, before you can fix the problem, you need to identify what is wrong.

What are the signs of a broken toilet handle?

There are a few signs that can indicate that your toilet handle is broken. These include:

  • The handle does not move when you try to flush the toilet.
  • The handle moves but does not flush the toilet.
  • The handle is loose or broken.
  • The toilet does not flush when you press the handle.

If you see any of these signs, it is likely that your toilet handle is broken and needs to be repaired or replaced.

How to tell if the problem is with the handle or the flush valve

In some cases, it can be difficult to tell if the problem is with the toilet handle or the flush valve. However, there are a few things you can check to help you determine the cause of the problem.

  • First, try to flush the toilet with the handle. If the toilet does not flush, it is likely that the problem is with the handle.
  • If the toilet does flush, try to turn the water supply valve off and on. If the toilet does not flush when the water supply valve is off, it is likely that the problem is with the flush valve.
  • If the toilet does flush when the water supply valve is off, it is likely that the problem is with the handle.

Once you have determined the cause of the problem, you can begin to fix it.

Gathering Your Materials

To fix a broken toilet handle, you will need the following materials:

  • A new toilet handle
  • A screwdriver
  • A pair of pliers
  • A bucket
  • A wet rag
  • A dry rag

Tools and materials you will need

  • A new toilet handle
  • A screwdriver
  • A pair of pliers
  • A bucket
  • A wet rag
  • A dry rag

Safety precautions to take

When working on a toilet, it is important to take precautions to protect yourself from injury. Here are a few safety tips:

  • Wear gloves to protect your hands from chemicals and sharp objects.
  • Turn off the water supply to the toilet before you begin work.
  • Be careful not to drop any tools or parts into the toilet bowl.
  • If you are working with a broken toilet handle, be careful not to cut yourself on the sharp edges.

How to Repair a Broken Toilet Handle

To repair a broken toilet handle, follow these steps:

1. Turn off the water supply to the toilet.
2. Remove the old toilet handle by unscrewing the screws that hold it in place.
3. Clean the mounting area on the toilet tank with a wet rag.
4. Apply a small amount of plumber’s putty to the mounting area on the toilet tank.
5. Attach the new toilet handle to the mounting area and tighten the screws.
6. Turn on the water supply to the toilet.
7. Test the toilet handle to make sure it is working properly.

If you are unable to fix the toilet handle yourself, you can call a plumber to help you.

3. Removing the Old Handle

To remove the old handle, you will need the following tools:

  • A screwdriver
  • A pair of pliers
  • A bucket
  • A rag

1. Turn off the water supply to the toilet. This is usually located under the sink or in the basement.
2. Flush the toilet to drain all of the water from the tank.
3. Remove the cap from the top of the toilet tank. This is usually held in place by a screw or two.
4. Locate the two bolts that hold the handle to the tank. These are usually located on either side of the tank.
5. Use a screwdriver to loosen the bolts and remove the handle.
6. If the old flush valve is still attached to the handle, you will need to remove it as well. This is usually done by unscrewing the nut that holds it in place.
7. Once the old handle and flush valve are removed, you can clean the inside of the tank.
8. To reinstall the new handle, simply reverse the steps above.

4. Installing the New Handle

To install the new handle, you will need the following tools:

  • A screwdriver
  • A pair of pliers
  • A bucket
  • A rag

1. Turn off the water supply to the toilet. This is usually located under the sink or in the basement.
2. Flush the toilet to drain all of the water from the tank.
3. Remove the cap from the top of the toilet tank. This is usually held in place by a screw or two.
4. Locate the two bolts that hold the handle to the tank. These are usually located on either side of the tank.
5. Insert the new handle onto the bolts and tighten them with a screwdriver.
6. If the new flush valve is not already attached to the handle, you will need to attach it now. This is usually done by screwing it into the bottom of the tank.
7. Once the new handle and flush valve are installed, you can turn on the water supply to the toilet.
8. Flush the toilet to test the new handle to make sure it is working properly.

Replacing a toilet handle is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few minutes. By following these steps, you can easily repair a broken toilet handle and have your toilet up and running in no time.

Here are some additional tips for repairing a broken toilet handle:

  • If the handle is stuck, you can try using a lubricant to loosen it.
  • If the handle is broken, you can try replacing it with a new one.
  • If you are not comfortable working on your own toilet, you can always call a plumber to help you.

    How do I know if my toilet handle is broken?

  • The handle may not be able to move the flapper up and down.
  • The handle may be loose or wobbly.
  • The handle may be broken off completely.

How do I fix a broken toilet handle?

1. Turn off the water supply to the toilet. This is usually located under the sink or behind the toilet.
2. Remove the old handle. There will be a screw or nut holding the handle in place. Once you have removed the screw or nut, you can pull the handle off.
3. Install the new handle. Make sure that the new handle is compatible with your toilet. Once you have installed the new handle, tighten the screw or nut until it is secure.
4. Turn on the water supply to the toilet. Flush the toilet to make sure that the new handle is working properly.

What if I can’t fix the toilet handle myself?

If you are unable to fix the toilet handle yourself, you can call a plumber to come and fix it for you.

How much does it cost to fix a broken toilet handle?

The cost of fixing a broken toilet handle will vary depending on the type of handle and the cost of labor. The average cost of fixing a toilet handle is between $50 and $100.

What are some tips for preventing a broken toilet handle?

  • Avoid slamming the toilet seat down.
  • Keep the toilet clean and free of debris.
  • Lubricate the toilet handle with a small amount of oil or grease every few months.
  • Replace the toilet handle if it is damaged or worn out.

    In this blog post, we have discussed how to repair a broken toilet handle. We have covered the different types of toilet handles and the steps involved in repairing each type. We have also provided tips on how to prevent future toilet handle repairs.

We hope that this blog post has been helpful. If you have any questions, please feel free to leave them in the comments section below.

Here are some key takeaways from this blog post:

  • There are two main types of toilet handles: flush valves and tank levers.
  • Flush valves are the most common type of toilet handle.
  • Tank levers are less common, but they are easier to repair.
  • To repair a flush valve, you will need to remove the tank lid, disconnect the water supply line, and replace the flush valve.
  • To repair a tank lever, you will need to remove the tank lid and disconnect the linkage rod.
  • You can prevent future toilet handle repairs by keeping your toilet clean and well-maintained.

Author Profile

Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell is the owner of toiletty.com. She is a mom of two and is very passionate about home improvement.

Liana has ten years of home improvement experience, and in her own words, she said: “I love improving the home, and I’m very passionate about keeping the home in the best possible condition. I love it!”

Liana Farrell balances beauty and functionality when she goes about her home improvement jobs.