Disconnect and Remove the Tank — Remove the Tank Lid
Part of project
How to Stop a Constantly Running Toilet by Adjusting the Fill Valve Float · Step 1 of 5
In this video
Place a towel on the floor to catch any drips. Use an adjustable wrench to disconnect the water supply line from the bottom of the fill valve. Next, locate the two tank bolts underneath the bowl and use a wrench to loosen and remove the nuts. Once the bolts are loose, carefully lift the tank straight up and off the toilet bowl. Place the tank on a protected surface, such as a towel laid over the toilet seat.
Goal: Detach the toilet tank from the bowl
- The porcelain tank can be heavy and is very fragile. Handle it with care to avoid dropping or cracking it.
Used in this video
- Adjustable Wrench (Tool Type: Hand Tools, Wrench Type: Adjustable wrench) — Loosening the water supply line nut and the tank bolt nuts.
- Towel (Material: Fabric) — Protecting the floor from water and providing a soft surface to place the tank on.
563K subscribers
FAQs
What specific tools will I need to adjust the fill valve float?
For most modern fill valve adjustments, you typically won't need specialized tools beyond your hands. Some older or specific fill valve types might require a flathead or Phillips screwdriver to loosen a lock screw or a pair of pliers to gently turn a locking nut. Always have a towel handy for any minor spills.
Do I need to turn off the water supply to the toilet before adjusting the float?
While not strictly necessary for simply adjusting the float, it's a recommended safety measure, especially for beginners. Turning off the water at the shut-off valve behind the toilet prevents accidental overflows if you inadvertently displace a component. Remember to turn the water back on fully after testing your adjustment.
How do I know if I've adjusted the float to the correct water level?
The ideal water level is typically about 1 inch below the top of the overflow tube in the tank. After each adjustment, flush the toilet and observe the water refilling. The fill valve should shut off completely once the water reaches this level, and the toilet should remain silent without any trickling sound.
What should I do if adjusting the float doesn't stop the toilet from running?
If adjusting the float doesn't resolve the constant running, the problem likely lies elsewhere in the fill valve assembly or with the flapper valve at the bottom of the tank. The flapper might not be sealing properly, or the fill valve itself could be faulty and require replacement. Consider checking the flapper for wear or obstruction next.
Disconnect and Remove the Tank — Remove the Tank Lid
Part of project
How to Stop a Constantly Running Toilet by Adjusting the Fill Valve Float · Step 1 of 5
In this video
Place a towel on the floor to catch any drips. Use an adjustable wrench to disconnect the water supply line from the bottom of the fill valve. Next, locate the two tank bolts underneath the bowl and use a wrench to loosen and remove the nuts. Once the bolts are loose, carefully lift the tank straight up and off the toilet bowl. Place the tank on a protected surface, such as a towel laid over the toilet seat.
Goal: Detach the toilet tank from the bowl
- The porcelain tank can be heavy and is very fragile. Handle it with care to avoid dropping or cracking it.
Used in this video
- Adjustable Wrench (Tool Type: Hand Tools, Wrench Type: Adjustable wrench) — Loosening the water supply line nut and the tank bolt nuts.
- Towel (Material: Fabric) — Protecting the floor from water and providing a soft surface to place the tank on.
Frequently Asked Questions
What specific tools will I need to adjust the fill valve float?
For most modern fill valve adjustments, you typically won't need specialized tools beyond your hands. Some older or specific fill valve types might require a flathead or Phillips screwdriver to loosen a lock screw or a pair of pliers to gently turn a locking nut. Always have a towel handy for any minor spills.
Do I need to turn off the water supply to the toilet before adjusting the float?
While not strictly necessary for simply adjusting the float, it's a recommended safety measure, especially for beginners. Turning off the water at the shut-off valve behind the toilet prevents accidental overflows if you inadvertently displace a component. Remember to turn the water back on fully after testing your adjustment.
How do I know if I've adjusted the float to the correct water level?
The ideal water level is typically about 1 inch below the top of the overflow tube in the tank. After each adjustment, flush the toilet and observe the water refilling. The fill valve should shut off completely once the water reaches this level, and the toilet should remain silent without any trickling sound.
What should I do if adjusting the float doesn't stop the toilet from running?
If adjusting the float doesn't resolve the constant running, the problem likely lies elsewhere in the fill valve assembly or with the flapper valve at the bottom of the tank. The flapper might not be sealing properly, or the fill valve itself could be faulty and require replacement. Consider checking the flapper for wear or obstruction next.