Before you begin, gather all the necessary tools and materials. You’ll need an adjustable wrench, pliers, Teflon tape, a new toilet float, and potentially a bucket or towels to catch any water that may spill during the process.
1. Turn off the water supply: Locate the shut-off valve, typically located near the base of the toilet, on the wall or floor. Turn the valve clockwise to shut off the water supply to the toilet.
2. Drain the tank: Flush the toilet to drain as much water as possible from the tank. If necessary, use a sponge or towel to soak up any remaining water.
3. Disconnect the water supply line: Use an adjustable wrench or pliers to unscrew the nut connecting the water supply line to the bottom of the toilet tank. Place a bucket or towels underneath to catch any water that may spill out.
4. Remove the old float: Take note of how the old float is connected inside the tank. There are different types of floats, including a ball float or a cylinder-style float. Disconnect any clips, rods, or chains that connect the float to the fill valve or other components.
5. Install the new float: Attach the new float according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This may involve connecting a clip, rod, or chain to the fill valve. Make sure the float is secure and moves freely up and down as the water level changes.
6. Replace any worn or damaged parts: While you have the tank open, it’s a good idea to inspect other components such as the fill valve or flapper. If any parts appear worn or damaged, consider replacing them to prevent future issues.
7. Reconnect the water supply line: Apply Teflon tape to the threads of the supply line to ensure a watertight seal. Then, reconnect the supply line to the bottom of the toilet tank and tighten the nut with an adjustable wrench or pliers. Be careful not to overtighten, as this may cause damage.
8. Turn on the water supply: Slowly turn the shut-off valve counterclockwise to gradually allow water to flow back into the tank. Check for any leaks around the supply line connections and tighten if necessary.
9. Test the float: With the water supply turned on, observe the float as the tank fills up. The float should rise with the water level and stop the flow of water once it reaches the desired level. Adjust the float if necessary to achieve the optimal water level.
Congratulations! You have successfully installed a new toilet float. Test your toilet by flushing and ensure that it fills up properly and stops running after each flush. If you encounter any issues or leaks, double-check your connections and make any necessary adjustments.
Remember, if you are uncomfortable or unsure about completing this task on your own, it is always best to consult a professional plumber for assistance.