Of the myriad circumstances when your toilet might need repairing, fixing a broken handle is likely the most basic. A functioning handle is important for keeping your toilet from using excess water and to keep it flushing properly. As much as people would like to think simply jiggling the handle is an appropriate fix, there are more tried and true methods of fixing a broken toilet handle.
Open the toilet tank and remove the old handle. Unscrew the nut on the opposite side of the handle to release it from the tank. Unhook the chain that leads from the handle's bar to the rubber flapper at the bottom of the tank. Pull the handle out.
Decide on a new handle that fits your style. They come in a variety of options from plain white to decorative chrome. The price varies widely, but a basic handle will be very inexpensive.
Slide the handle's arm through the hole in the tank where you took the old one from. Use the nut that comes with the new handle to tight against the tank. Attach the chain from the flapper to the handle arm.
Flush the toilet. Adjust the length of the chain to assure the handle pulls the flapper up. And adjust the tightness of the nut on the handle to be sure it moves up and down smoothly.
Tips and Warnings
- Before getting a new handle, be sure the chain and flapper aren't actually the problem. If water is leaking from the tank to the bowl, it's likely the flapper is causing it.
- Ensure you purchase the proper replacement part. Some are built for a handle that is on the front of the tank; others are on the side.
