Toilet handles can and do wear out, get rusty and sometimes break. But, no need to panic. Fixing a broken toilet handle is easily done by replacing it with a new one.
Here are the simple steps to follow to fix your broken toilet handle.
1) The first thing you need to know is the brand and model number of your toilet. So, on most toilets, you can do this by removing the lid off the tank and looking for that information printed somewhere on the inside of the tank.
2) Purchase a replacement handle at your local hardware store or online. Make sure it will fit your brand and model number toilet. Handles normally are sold in a kit which includes the handle itself and the swing arm.
If you are purchasing it at a local shop, bring the old handle with you. It never hurts to compare one with the other.
3) We recommend to take a photo (with your smart phone) of the swing arm and chain inside the tank that is connected to the handle. You need to unhook the chain from the arm so taking a photo (or at least jotting down which hole the chain is in) will help when you have to put the chain back on the arm after replacing the toilet handle.
4) Remove the chain from the arm inside the tank.
5) Most toilet handles are fastened to the tank with a nut which you can unscrew with a crescent wrench. But BE CAREFUL. Some nuts are threaded in the reverse way (so lefty loosy, righty tighty won’t work). Also, if the wrench slips from the nut while you are forcing it, it could cause a crack in the porcelain tank which would then mean your inexpensive project turns into an expensive one!!
Note: If the nut is rusted, spray some WD-40 lubricant on it first.
6) Once the handle is removed – clean any rust stains or mildew that may have accumulated in that area. You can use your regular bathroom cleaner to do this.
7) Attach the new handle to the toilet tank and fasten the nut to lock it securely into place.
8) Attach the chain back to the swing arm. Refer to your photo or your notes so that you put the chain back through the same hole it was previously through.
9) Test the handle to make sure everything works as it should.
10) Replace the lid of the toilet tank and you are done!
It should be very easy to replace a broken toilet handle but if you are unable to do these steps or you don’t have the proper equipment (or you are having a problem removing the nut and don’t want to risk breaking the porcelain tank) give us a call at Atlantis Plumbing at 770-443-8229 – we’ll be happy to help. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.