How to Fix the Loose Toilet Handle - Wisler Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, & Electrical

A loose toilet handle can ruin your mind. It can be even worse if the affected toilet is not working. Is your toilet handle loose? If yes, you are not alone. Many people have this problem at some point. Fortunately, this is an easy fix. If you’re unable to complete any of these steps on your own, remember we’re waiting. At Wisler Plumbing & Air, our fully qualified team is always at your disposal. Whatever 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 will prevent getting the lid in the way and parts or tools falling into the toilet bowl. 

2. Remove the toilet tank cover

Do this task with both hands and place it on a flat surface. If your tank is porcelain, be careful not to drop it or it may break. 

3. Turn off the water supply to the toilet

The shut off valve is usually located behind the toilet near the base. Turn the knob either handle clockwise to stop the water flow. 

4. Flush the toilet to empty the tank

Do this so you can have easily access to the handle and see what you’re doing. 

5. Locate the toilet handle nut

The toilet handle nut is either the cause of a loose toilet handle. It is usually located inside the tank under the handle. 

6. Use a wrench to tighten the toilet handle nut

Using an adjustable wrench or pliers, turn the nut clockwise until tight. Be careful not to overtighten as this may damage the handle or reservoir. 

7. If the grip is still loose, repeat steps 5-7 until it is snug. If it’s better, congratulations.

 

8. Open the toilet water supply

Refill the tank with water by turning the shut-off valve handle counterclockwise. 

9. Flush the toilet to test the grip

If it works well, your job is done. If the grip is still loose, there may be another problem. Don’t  be devastated, follow the instructions in the next section to replace your toilet handle or contact Wisler Plumbing & Air. 

How to replace a toilet handle

 

1. Know the type of toilet handle you need

Check your toilet handle for brand name, model and make. If you can’t find the information, you should get a universal flush handle at your local hardware store.

2. Repeat steps 1-4 from the section above

Close the toilet seat cover, remove the tank cover, turn off the water supply and flush the toilet. 

3. Release the chain clip

Inside the toilet tank you’ll see the handle’s flush and a chain or wire attached to it. The other end of the chain is connected to a flapper valve. The clip that holds the chain in place is called the “chain clip”. solve it 

4. Remove the mounting nut

Do you remember the mother we told you about in the previous section? That’s it. Use a wrench to remove it by turning it counterclockwise. The flush handle and attached parts should release easily. Otherwise, pull firmly but gently. 

5. Remove the old handle

If you were able to remove the chain and nut, the old handle should come off easily. If it sticks, you may need to tilt it or use pliers. 

6. Unscrew the mounting nut from your new grip

Usually located on the underside of the handle. Unscrew it and keep it in a safe place so you don’t lose it. 

7. Screw on the new fastening nut

Carefully screw on the new fastening nut by hand. Do not overtighten as this may damage the handle. 

8. Insert the new handle into the tank hole

Gently push it in until it is snug. If it’s a universal grip, you may need to trim the shank to fit. 

9. Reconnect the cord

Tie one end of the string or wire to the new handle and the other end to the flapper valve. Make sure the chain is slack so it isn’t too tight when flushing. 

10. Open the water supply

Refill the tank with water by turning the shut-off valve handle counterclockwise. 

11. Flush the toilet to test the new handle

If it works well, your job is done. Congratulations! Contact your local plumbing service, if you cannot fix your loose toilet handleIf you have followed the instructions in this article and are still having trouble with your toilet handle, please contact us. Wisler Plumbing & Ait is happy to help you troubleshoot the issue and find a solution that works for you. Call us today at (540) 483-9382 to speak to one of our friendly team members.