How To Fix A Loose Toilet Handle

28 January 2023

General

Have you ever tried to flush the toilet and discovered that the handle is broken or loose? It can be difficult to solve this aggravating issue, but don’t worry! Fixing a loose handle is actually fairly simple. In this article, we explain how to repair a loose toilet handle. You’ll discover how to check the toilet levers, how to take it out, and how to put in a replacement handle. Additionally, you’ll pick up a few expert strategies to simplify the procedure.

9 Tips to Fix A Loose Toilet Handle

1. Determine the issue

Identifying the issue is the first step toward fixing a loose or broken toilet handle. You need to check whether the flush handle is misaligned, or check to see if it functions at all. The screws holding the handle to the toilet tank might be worn out or loose, or the toilet chain that links the handle to the flapper may be the root cause of the problem.

To identify the problem, check inside the toilet’s porcelain tank interior, as well as the handle. The screws will need to be changed if they are worn out, or you will need to reattach the chain to the flapper if it has come off. The next stage of the repair procedure can only be started once the issue has been located.

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2. Get the required tools

Before you make any major changes, you need to get the right equipment. A screwdriver is the most essential tool. An adjustable wrench and a pair of pliers are also required. Make sure that the screwdriver will fit the screws holding the toilet handle to the tank. Having a rag or cloth on hand will help you clean up any water that may spill. If it’s difficult to see in the vicinity of the handle, you might also want to use a flashlight. You can start the repair process once you have all the necessary tools.

3. Evaluate the handle

Once the issue has been identified, and you have collected all your tools, it is time to begin the toilet repairs. Firstly, remove the cap from the handle. The cap is typically removed by turning it anticlockwise. The metal nuts/screws holding the handle in place can be seen once the cap has been removed.

Using a screwdriver, tighten each screw individually. Avoid over tightening them as this could harm the handle or the toilet. Replace the screws as necessary and replace the cap before testing the security of the handle. If the flush lever feels secure, the issue has been effectively resolved. If the problem is not resolved, it’s time to start looking for a new handle.

4. Remove the previous handle

Find the screws holding the handle in place, then use a flathead screwdriver to carefully remove all the screws. You should be able to easily take off the toilet handle once the screws are removed. If you are struggling to remove the toilet lever nut and washers, using a pair of pliers will help loosen them. Once the old handle is off,  you can start installing the new handle.

5. Scrub the area around the toilet’s base

Make sure the area surrounding the toilet’s base is clean before replacing a loose toilet handle. Start by using a moist cloth to clean the exterior of the toilet bowl. Inspect the area around the handle for any dust, dirt, or debris that may have gathered there. The site where the handle is linked to the toilet tank should then be cleaned. To get rid of any calcium or limescale deposits that have accumulated, use a gentle cleanser and a soft brush.

The toilet tank’s interior has to be cleaned last. To accomplish this, flush the toilet and then scrape the tank’s interior using a scrub brush to eliminate any accumulated dirt. After finishing, flush the toilet once again to remove any leftover waste. You can be sure that your new handle will fit snugly in place by taking the time to thoroughly clean the area around the toilet’s base.

6. Install the new handle

Once you have cleaned the toilet and its surrounding areas, it’s time to install the new handle. Simply put your new handle in the spot where the old one was and make sure it is aligned with the toilet seat and the flat surface on the top of the tank. Next, insert the screws that come with the new handle into the existing holes. Make sure to securely tighten them. Test the new handle one last time to make sure that it is secure. It is important to read and follow the instructions on your specific handle arm, as each handle has different specifications and installation requirements.

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7. Connect the chain

The chain needs to be connected after the new handle has been installed. To complete this, you’ll need a set of pliers. Start by inserting the lift chain’s open end into the handle’s first open link. Use the pliers to firmly secure the link once it is in position. For the opposite end of the chain, repeat this procedure to connect it to the flapper valve.

You need to ensure that the chain is not too tight as it will cause issues when you flush. Instead, install the chain with a little bit of slack to allow for movement when flushing. Lastly, confirm that the flapper and chain are firmly attached. This will lessen the chance of any leaks or malfunctions.

8. Test the handle

You should test your chain after connecting it to make sure it is functioning properly. Simply pull on the toilet handle to accomplish this. The handle should pull the chain if it is attached properly, causing the valve to open and the toilet to flush. Verify again that the chain is firmly attached to the handle if the toilet won’t flush. Make sure the chain is straight and not too long or short, and that there are no kinks.

You might need to adjust the lift arm if the handle does open the valve but the toilet doesn’t flush. In order to get the toilet to flush properly, loosen the nut holding the lift arm in place. Retighten the nut to keep the lift arm in place after that. The handle has to be tested when everything has been connected and adjusted. In order to check that the toilet is functioning properly, pull on the handle and flush it a few times.

9. Replace the lid on the toilet tank

Put the toilet tank cover back on once you’ve tested the handle and established that it functions properly. It’s crucial to complete this process properly to stop any additional damage or leaks. Make sure the lid is on correctly first. After that, make sure the toilet tank cover is completely sealed by pressing it on.

You must press the clips into place if your toilet tank lid has clips. There shouldn’t be a gap between the lid and the tank so make sure that they are well fastened. After you’ve secured the toilet tank lid, flush the toilet once more to make sure everything is operating as it should. You’re good to go if the handle is still working properly and the toilet flushes normally. You’ve now fixed the loose toilet handle!

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Fixing a toilet handle can be a complicated and time-consuming task, which is why seeking the assistance of a professional plumber is recommended. Not only will he get the job done quickly, but you are guaranteed to have a fully functioning toilet by the end of his visit.

At Plomberie Pro Drain, our professional plumbers are dedicated to fixing any plumbing issues in your commercial or residential property as quickly as possible. We know how annoying plumbing problems can be, which is why we are here to bring you peace of mind.

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